Breastfeeding is important for reducing risks and providing health benefits to both mothers and babies. It is the most effective way to provide infants with essential nutrients and antibodies for growth and development.
Benefits of Breast Milk
Breastmilk is a complete source of nutrition for infants. It is rich in antibodies that protect against various diseases. It is recommended for infants to be breastfed within the first hour of birth and exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life. Continuing breastfeeding along with solid foods up to two years of age can reduce the risk of many health issues.
In babies, breastfeeding reduces the risk of:
- Type 1 diabetes
- Asthma
- Ear and gastrointestinal infections
- Obesity
- Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
In moms, breastfeeding reduces the risk of:
- High blood pressure
- Type 2 diabetes
- Ovarian cancer
- Breast cancer
Breastfeeding also helps with healthy weight gain. For optimal growth and development, newborns should feed 8-12 times a day, as their nutritional needs evolve.
Your Care Team
At Peak Vista's Women’s Health Center, our care team includes nurse practitioners, certified nurse midwives (CNMs), and physicians. We are committed to providing comprehensive care and resources for women and children.
Certified Nuse Midwives
The role of CNMs in providing primary care, gynecologic services, prenatal care, and support during pregnancy and postpartum period is crucial for the overall well-being of women. CNMs offer comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and education for expectant mothers. Our CNMs care for patients in labor and are part of the delivery process.
Prenatal Plus
Peak Vista also offers the Prenatal Plus program, supported by Medicaid, to improve birth outcomes. This program includes educational resources, support, and coordination for expectant mothers. It covers topics such as baby development, changes during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and labor and delivery. The goal of the program is to promote the overall wellness of both mother and baby.
Life-Long Care
Caring for the medical and mental health needs of both mothers and infants is essential. Peak Vista provides well-baby and well-child checkups, along with dedicated waiting areas and educational materials for mothers. This ensures comprehensive support from prenatal care through the initial stages of childhood.
At Peak Vista’s Women’s Health Center, Kara Novak, a CNM with experience in labor and delivery nursing, offers compassionate care and support for expectant mothers and families.
For appointments at the Women’s Health Center or to explore other services provided by Peak Vista, visit peakvista.org or call (719) 632-5700.
