KH . ORG 19 By Caiti Bobbitt Whether it is a mother’s first child or her last, Kootenai Health’s team of International Board Certified Lactation Specialists go above and beyond to help mothers and babies on their breastfeeding journey. “After a mother delivers her baby, we provide specialized care to meet her goals and expectations,” said Starina Brandt, RN, clinical coordinator of Kootenai Health’s Women’s and Children’s Services. “Every new mom receives lactation support at Kootenai Health.” Kootenai Health’s team of nurses receives up to 20 hours of breastfeeding education and training to help postpartum moms during the essential bonding period, which is from the time of delivery to discharge from the hospital. “Breastfeeding is an integral way a baby bonds with its mother because of the surge of oxytocin, one of our body’s feel-good hormones,” said Maureen Finigan, RN, Kootenai Health nurse lactation consultant. “Breastfeeding is also one of the optimal ways to provide complete nutrition to babies because the composition of breast milk is unique for each infant.” Better health Both mother and baby receive many benefits from breastfeeding. Research shows that infants who are breastfed are less likely to develop conditions like asthma, obesity and type 1 diabetes. Additionally, breastfeeding mothers are at reduced risk of developing high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and certain types of cancer. “Breast milk helps establish and protect a baby’s immune system, which they don’t really establish on their own until about 4 months,” said Starina. “Breastfeeding also establishes a baby’s gut microbiome, introducing helpful bacteria and protective micro and macro nutrients.” Welcoming a new baby should be a happy time in a mother’s life, and often that means being open to receiving help. The Kootenai Health lactation team prides itself on being a small part of mothers’ support system. “Our team at Kootenai Health really focuses on helping ease moms into this new, exciting, often exhausting chapter,” said Maureen. The Kootenai Health lactation team offers a free monthly breastfeeding class. A support group also meets weekly in-person. The lactation team is available seven days a week for prenatal visits, outpatient lactation consultations and advice over the phone. Speak with a lactation consultant by calling (208) 625-5091. Idaho Breastfeeding Summit Each year, Kootenai Health joins forces with the Idaho Breastfeeding Coalition (IBC) to put on the Idaho Breastfeeding Summit. “The Summit is always a chance for experts to come out and collaboratively share our insights on best breastfeeding practices,” said Maureen Finigan, RN, Kootenai Health nurse lactation consultant. “We’re completely removing the barrier between expert and patient. We can’t wait for the 2023 Summit!” BondingWith Baby Through Join us To learn about more breastfeeding resources and to register, visit KH.org/family-birth-center. Kootenai Health team connects with Idaho Breastfeeding Coalition at yearly summit.
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