Mercy offers one of the finest hospital-based childbirth and family education programs in the area. Mercy Health Partners of Southwest Ohio is the first U.S. regional health system to be recognized for excellence in breastfeeding care by Baby-Friendly USA, implementer of the UNICEF Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative in the United States.

Mercy supports informed health choices for mothers and infants. It is our policy to avoid the promotion of breastmilk substitutes and to refuse the advertising of artificial breastmilks in our facilities.

All of our instructors are experienced, obstetric nurses who work in our birthing centers as registered nurses. They belong to the International Childbirth Education Association, the Association of Women's Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses, and other highly regarded organizations.

The Beauty of Breastfeeding

There are many benefits for breastfeeding families:

• A special bond for mom and baby
• The best nutrition for baby
• Reduces the risk of SIDS
• Protects baby against illness and allergy
• Helps mother's body recover from birth
• Reduces mother's risk of breast cancer
• Saves money (an average of $1,500 for one year of formula and $1,400 in healthcare costs)

Preparing for Breastfeeding

Here are some steps you can take while you are pregnant to help make breastfeeding easier for you and your baby:

• Take a breastfeeding class
• Check your nipples (instructions below)
• Read about breastfeeding
• Attend a support group

If you have special concerns, see a lactation consultant for a prenatal visit.

Nipple Check

Look at your nipples. Do they stick out? Check your nipples with the pinch test by placing your thumb and first finger in the C position and place them about an inch behind your nipple on your breast. Squeeze and watch your nipple.

When you do this test, if your nipple dimples or flattens into your breast or if your nipple flattens, please talk to your doctor or call a lactation consultant at 513/624-3275 about ways to help prepare yourself to nurse.

Lactation Services

Our lactation consultants are certified by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners.

They provide the following services:

• Hospital and office visits and telephone support
• Assistance with breastfeeding equipment and supplies
• Prenatal consultation
• Education regarding breastfeeding techniques
• Lactation assistance for adoptive mothers
• Lactation support for women and children with special needs

Lactation consultants help mothers who:

• have sore nipples or breastshave flat or inverted nipples
• are away from baby for work or school
• have babies who feed poorly at breast (are sleepy, make clicking noises, do not suck well or do not swallow often)
• have babies with special needs (prematurity, multiples, poor weight gain, cleft lip or palate, Down Syndrome, nurse an adopted baby, etc.)
• want to pump their milk
• want to increase or dry up their supply