Did You Know?

Breastfeeding has many proven health benefits for mothers and babies, including helping to prevent diabetes. 

• Breastfed babies have a lower risk of developing type 1 diabetes and becoming overweight or obese later in life, which is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
• Breastfeeding can lower a mother's risk of type 2 diabetes.
• During late pregnancy, some women develop blood glucose levels that are too high even though they didn't have diabetes before getting pregnant.  It's called gestational diabetes.  They are at greater risk for type 2 diabetes later in life. Breastfeeding can help reduce the risk because it helps the body process glucose and insulin better.
• An infant's low blood glucose is often best treated by early breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact with their mother.
• Breastfeeding is sometimes more challenging than expected. Getting support can help. Ask about peer groups and professional resources, such as a lactation consultant. 

Breastfeeding Tips for Mothers with Diabetes 

• Breastfeed as soon as you can after delivery.
• Get lots of skin-to-skin contact with your baby and nurse several times a day in the beginning.
• Stay relaxed, and be patient while your milk comes in.
• Have a snack before or during nursing. And keep something nearby to raise your blood glucose quickly if needed.
• Be sure to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
• Check your blood glucose levels each time before and after nursing. 

Courtesy: American Diabetes Association. 

The Lactation Center

Welcome to your breastfeeding journey. Whether you're a first-timer or this is your third or fourth baby, our lactation team is here for YOU! There's a lot of information out there about breastfeeding and it's easy to feel overwhelmed, but we're here to help. This handy guide of local information is designed for you and when you need us, please do not hesitate to call. 

Resources

Baptist Medical Center East - The Lactation Circle is every Monday. You’re invited to join us for this FREE meeting. Bring your baby, your questions, and hang out with other moms (and moms-to-be) as we learn and share with one another. A certified lactation consultant (IBCLC) will be available to offer expert help along with a baby scale to monitor the weight of your baby. For more information and to schedule your session, email TLC@baptistfirst.org.

To Reach A Member of Our Lactation Team

• Inpatients please TEXT: (334)202-6032
• After you’ve been discharged, please CALL: (334)747-8360