Studies
have shown that breastfeeding has
many benefits for both infants and their mothers and is a healthier choice than formula feeding. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, breast milk
improves resistance to infectious diseases, enhances the immune system, and provides nutritional growth and developmental benefits for babies. Mothers who
breastfeed enjoy improved maternal health, less postpartum bleeding and have a reduced risk of ovarian and postmenopausal breast cancer.
To encourage women and help them in their choice to breastfeed, The
Birth Center at United Hospital and Children’s Hospitals and Clinics-St. Paul created The Breastfeeding Resource Center. This program, established in
1985, was the first of its kind in Minnesota and was designed “to help mothers and their babies enjoy the most rewarding and satisfying breastfeeding experience
possible.”
The Center is staffed by lactation consultants who are registered nurses with advanced education, internal board certification and many years’ experience
helping breastfeeding mothers and their babies. They provide services to all women who choose to breastfeed, with emphasis on those who have special needs
or problems. Services include:
inpatient consultation for mothers
telephone counseling and support
outpatient clinic for evaluation/treatment of complex breastfeeding problems
private space for employees of United and Children’s-St. Paul who are working
and continuing to express breast milk
professional consultation and annual education for more than 300 health
care professionals
retail sales of specialty products for pregnancy and parenting
For more information on the Breastfeeding Resource Center, call 651-241- 6250.
United Hospital
333 North Smith Avenue
St. Paul, MN 55102
651-241-8000 E-mail us