breast feeding Archives - Health BeatHealth Beat

Jamaica Hospital Ranks Well Above National Average On CDC Survey

Posted on July 16, 2020 by Michael Hinck

The benefits of breastfeeding are numerous. Breast milk contains nutrients that are vital to an infant’s growth and development and protects them against many childhood illnesses.

The MediSys Health Network understands the important role we play in providing breastfeeding education and support to our community. We have many programs and initiatives in place that encourage breastfeeding and skilled staff committed to helping new mothers through the breastfeeding process.

The network’s dedication to promoting breastfeeding was recently highlighted when the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released the results of their most recent Maternity Practices in Infant Nutrition and Care (mPINC) survey.

The mPINC survey is released every two years and is intended to highlight strengths and identify improvement opportunities in hospitals’ infant feeding practices. Over 2,000 hospitals across the United States participated in the most survey which contains many newborn feeding practice sub-categories including: rooming-in, feeding education, and discharge support.

Each hospital that participated in the survey received a numeric grade as well as the average national and regional grades of other hospitals and the average grades of similar sized hospitals, (hospitals with between 2,000 -4,999 births per year).

The average national score for hospitals was a 79, the average regional score (northeast) was an 84, and the average score for similar-sized hospitals was an 83. We are pleased to announce that both MediSys hospitals exceeded each of these rating categories with Jamaica Hospital receiving a total score of 93 and Flushing Hospital earning a score of 96. These scores demonstrate of the network’s commitment to providing the highest-quality pre-natal and mother baby care to families. Congratulations to all who helped us achieve this level of success

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Breast Feeding After Augmentation

Posted on October 24, 2018 by Joann Ariola

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), breast augmentation has become the #1 cosmetic procedure for the last decade. Since the best age for breast augmentation is anywhere from 18 to 50 years old, a woman’s desire to look younger may overlap with the tick of her biological clock.

One of the most popular questions women ask before having surgery is, “Will I be able to breastfeed?”

The answer is, yes. Breastfeeding after breast augmentation is absolutely possible.

Although the prior condition of the breasts, position of the implant and incision could have a direct bearing on milk production, it is very likely that you will have a positive experience when nursing your child.

If you have any questions regarding breastfeeding your baby, you can call Jamaica Hospital’s Lactation Consultant at 718-670-4200 for answers to FAQ’s.

Summer Travel Tips for Breastfeeding Moms

Posted on June 13, 2017 by Xavia Malcolm

Summer is almost here! During this time of year, we are more likely to spend more time traveling away from home, and doing so while breastfeeding can be challenging for moms.

While breastfeeding your baby on-the-go can be tricky, utilizing the following tips can make traveling a little easier for you:

Plan ahead- Planning ahead can alleviate some of the frustration associated with breastfeeding and traveling. Mapping out rest stops or other locations that provide a space to breastfeed can be very helpful. Many airports offer breastfeeding lounges or a clean and quiet place to pump- check before you fly. If traveling without your baby, be sure to pump extra breast milk before you go.
Learn breast milk travel regulations- Before taking a flight; learn the breast milk travel allowances for your airport. According to the United States’ Transportation Security Administration (TSA), “Formula, breast milk and juice are allowed in reasonable quantities in carry-on bags.” These items will be screened separately from the rest of your belongings. The organization advises that travelers check their website, tsa.gov for policy updates. It is also important that you take note of the breastfeeding regulations in foreign countries; some have stricter rules than others.
Bring bottled water-It is important to stay hydrated while you travel. Dehydration can negatively affect your breastmilk supply. Washing breastfeeding equipment in water fountains or public bathroom sinks is not recommended, it is better to wash these items with bottled water.
Keep breastmilk cool- Storing pumped breast milk in room or cool temperatures is important. Temperatures can increase during travel so packing breastmilk in a cooler or similar device is helpful. It is advised that you inquire if your hotel or lodging accommodation is equipped with a refrigerator.
Wear comfortable clothing- Wear comfortable or loose tops that make breastfeeding easy. Wearing a nursing bra or tank top provides easy access for mealtimes.

Jamaica Hospital Medical Center is currently offering a breastfeeding education program, to schedule a breastfeeding education session or for further information, please call 718-291-3276.

Breastfed v. Formula

Posted on April 10, 2017 by Joann Ariola

Did you know that babies who are breastfed have a better chance of fighting off viruses and bacterial infections than babies who aren’t breastfed?
Well, it’s true; breast milk contains antibodies that can fight off viruses and bacteria, as well as lowering your baby’s risk of having asthma or allergies.

Some additional benefits of breastfeeding are:
• Breastfeeding strengthens a baby’s immune system
• Breastfeeding aids in digestion with less bouts of diarrhea, constipation or colic
• Breastfeeding in premature babies is an effective way to enhance health, growth and development

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that babies be exclusively breastfed exclusively for the first six months. Beyond that, breastfeeding is encouraged until at least 12 months, or longer if both the mother and baby are willing to continue breastfeeding.

The reason healthcare professionals are promoting breastfeeding over formula is commercial formulas try to duplicate breast milk; however, they are unable to completely match breast milk’s exact composition. Breast milk is a living substance made by each mother for her individual infant.

Choosing whether to breastfeed or formula feed your baby is one of the biggest decisions a new parent will make. If would like more information about the benefits of breast feeding over formula feeding, you can speak with a Lactation Specialist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Women’s Health Center. Call 718-291-3276 to schedule an appointment.

How Your Body Makes Milk for Your Baby

Posted on September 1, 2015 by Xavia Malcolm

breastfeeding-475378452 Your breasts give you the earliest clues that you are pregnant. When you become pregnant, they become swollen, tender and the skin on your nipples and areolas become darker. Within the first trimester you will continue to experience physical changes in your breasts-such as the bumps(Montgomery glands) surrounding your areolas increasing in size. Milk –producing cells (alveoli) and ducts in the mammary glands will also multiply in preparation for the distribution of milk.

Usually by your fourth to sixth month of pregnancy, hormones will be released which tell your mammary glands to begin producing milk. The alveoli draw fats, proteins and sugars from your blood to make breast milk. At this point of pregnancy, it is not unusual for your body to begin leaking milk. This form of milk is called colostrum and may be yellow or orange in color and sticky.

After the birth of your baby the body increases levels of the hormone prolactin. This hormone releases signals to produce more milk. It is also known as the hormone that makes mothers feel maternal.

You can attempt to feed your baby soon after delivering; however some mothers are not fully capable of feeding their newborn within 24 to 48 hours after delivery. Your “first milk” will be colostrum, which will have a creamy appearance. Colostrum is specially created for newborns; it is high in protein, low in fat and sugar and is easy to digest. It also helps your baby to make the first bowel movement and provides antibodies that strengthen the immune system.

As you can see, your body is designed to make the nutrients most essential to your baby’s health. Breastfeeding will provide many benefits for your bundle of joy and it will also provide you with countless health, emotional and financial benefits.

Foods that promote lactation

Posted on June 30, 2015 by Andrew Rubin

Breast feeding is a very special time in the life of a mother and her baby. It is important for mom to maintain a well-balanced diet in order in-order for both of them to get the proper nutrients needed.

Foods that are beneficial to the body during breast feeding are called lactogenic. If you are a breast feeding mother, some of the foods that are beneficial to you and the baby are:

• Oatmeal – good for relaxation and increases the production of oxytocin, a hormone responsible for the production of milk.

• Spinach – an excellent source of calcium, vitamins A. K and folic acid. It is also an excellent source of phytoestrogens, a plant based chemical that is similar to estrogen produced by the body.

• Carrots – contain phytoestrogens and also a good source of energy.

• Hummus – made from chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice and olive oil, a good source of energy.

• Papaya – has phytoestrogen and also promotes relaxation.

• Asparagus – contains phytoestrogen, fiber, folic acid, vitamins A, C, K and also tryptophan which stimulates prolactin, a hormone needed for milk production.

• Brown rice – Is a complex carbohydrate which is great for energy and also can increase serotonin level in the brain which is important for prolactin production.

• Apricots – contain fiber, vitamins A and C, potassium and calcium. Also contains tryptophan.

• Salmon – contains essential fatty acids and omega-3 fatty acid both help in the production of hormones needed for lactation.

It is very important for women who are nursing to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. If you would like to discuss your breast feeding nutrition requirements with a lactation consultant in our Women’s Health Center, please call 718-291-3276

Breastfeeding is Nutritious, Effective and FREE!

Posted on March 11, 2015 by Joann Ariola

There are many factors to consider when choosing to breast feed or formula feed your baby.

The American Pregnancy Association recommends breastfeeding for most families because breast milk provides the ideal nutrition for infants. It is a nearly perfect mix of all the ingredients your baby will need to grow. Breast milk contains vitamins, protein, and antibodies that help your baby fight off viruses, as well as, being more easily digested than infant formula.

A mother’s milk is always the perfect temperature, does not have a preparation time and is readily available at any time and place.

There is also a great financial benefit to breastfeeding. Formula prices can range from $54.00 to $198.00 per month depending on the brand. The additional cost of bottles, nipples and preparation should also be factored into this expense.Breast feeding not only saves you time and money, it will give you time to relax quietly with your newborn and bond.If you have any questions about breastfeeding and would like to speak with a lactation specialist, call Jamaica Hospital’s Women’s Health Center at 718-291-3276.

Should You Breast Feed When You Are Sick?

Posted on December 11, 2014 by Michael Hinck

There are many benefits to breast feeding, but is it harmful to your child’s health when you are sick with a cold or virus?

Even when you are sick, your baby will almost always benefit from breastfeeding. In most instances, viruses are most likely transmitted before symptoms even occur. Breast feeding can actually help protect your baby from the virus since your breast milk produces the necessary antibodies to stave off the illness. In fact, even if your baby gets sick, it is usually a much milder case than anyone else in the house.

It is not a good idea for you to stop breast feeding abruptly because your breasts can become engorged, which can lead to painful inflammation, known as mastitis. Instead, while you are sick, ask a family member to bring the baby to you to nurse and take him way when you’re done so you can rest. Also, drink plenty of fluids when you are sick so you don’t become dehydrated and your milk supply does not decrease.

Some moms may also be concerned about taking medications while breastfeeding, but with few exceptions, over the counter medications are just fine. Some suggestions include:
• Avoid using extra or maximum strength pain medication or fever reducers.

• Medications that contain ibuprofen are recommended over those that contain acetaminophen.

• Try to use single ingredient, short acting forms of cold, cough, and allergy medications.

• Avoid taking aspirin as there is a small risk of infants developing Reye’s syndrome.

It is important however to carefully read medication labels and check with your physician before taking any drug while you are nursing. If you do not have a doctor, contact Jamaica Hospital’s Women’s Health Center at 718-291-3276 to make an appointment.

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