The Healthy Families New York home visiting Program matches parents with
knowledgeable and caring workers who provide information and support during
pregnancy and early childhood. Services include helping families access community
resources and services, educating families on parenting and child development,
connecting families with medical providers and assessing children for developmental
delays. For more information call 716-372-5987 or email hfac14760@yahoo.com.
One of the services the program provides is having a Certified Lactation Consultant on staff to
assist with breastfeeding questions and concerns as well as to guide on techniques for
breastfeeding.
Research has shown that breastfeeding can have many benefits for both babies and mothers.
Nutrition: Breast milk provides all the nutrients a baby needs in the right proportions.
Protection: Breastfeeding contains antibodies that help babies have a stronger immune
system and can help decrease respiratory infections, and the frequency of colds. It has also
been shown to reduce the likelihood of diarrhea and constipation issues as well as vomiting, ear
infections, and colic. This has also contributed to less use of health care services with fewer
hospitalizations.
Cognitive development: Children who have consumed 100% breast milk have higher IQ’s,
there is a 9-point advantage over those who consumed no breastmilk at all.
Health benefits for mothers: Women who breastfeed typically return to their pre-pregnancy
weight more quickly than women who formula feed. Breastfeeding can reduce the risk of breast
and ovarian cancer. Breastfeeding produces oxytocin, which helps the uterus contract after
birth and reduces vaginal bleeding.
Follow Healthy Families Allegany/Cattaraugus on Facebook for more information.
According to the March of Dimes, most substances pass through the breast milk to the baby, including alcohol, nicotine, marijuana, and illicit drugs, such as heroin and cocaine. Alcohol includes beer, wine, wine coolers, and liquor. Nicotine may make a baby fussy, make it harder for the baby to sleep, and reduce milk supply so that the baby may not get all the milk he or she needs. Since marijuana has been made legal in states across the United States, people have the misconception that it is safe to use. If a woman uses marijuana, THC and other chemicals may increase the risk for problems with brain development and may affect the amount and quality of the breast milk. New York’s Office of Cannabis Management states that, “We do know that smoking can be harmful to both you and your baby. It is recommended to stop smoking products of any kind during pregnancy, while breast/chest feeding, or when around children of any age.” Concerning prescription medicines, some are not safe to take while breast feeding, making it essential for a mother who is breast feeding to consult her health care provider. Most OTC (Over-The-Counter) medicines are safe to use during breast feeding, but even these should be discussed with the doctor’s office. Healthy Moms. Strong Babies.
Remember Prevention Works!