Moms and babies gain the support they need
Two unique programs focusing on mothers and their infants are putting the importance of ecouragement, wellness, and education at the forefront.
The La Leche League of Columbus and the Mommy and Me program, both offered at Columbus Community Hospital (CCH), were added to the list of educational offerings and support groups in January.
The La Leche League provides mothers with the support and knowledge, they need to make the breastfeeding experience positive for both the mother and child.
“The program has multiple benefits,” said Wendy Sherwood, Lactation Consultant and LPN. “Questions are answered by a trained lactation consultant and mothers also share their challenges and successes as guidance for other mothers who are facing similar situations.”
The group includes information about how to start breastfeeding, how often to breastfeed, how to balance household tasks, continuing to breastfeed after returning to work, as well as nutrition and weaning.
The monthly sessions are led by Sue Francis, a La Leche League Leader, accredited by LLL International, and trained to answer any questions or concerns about breastfeeding.
The gatherings give mothers a chance to talk with other mothers who are breastfeeding and learn from their personal experiences.
“It reaches beyond breastfeeding and leads itself to other pieces of information,” said Sherwood. “The moms now have a network of other moms they can talk with and share their experiences.”
The La Leche League is open to all breastfeeding mothers and their babies, and mothers-to-be who are interested in breastfeeding. The group meets at CCH the third Wednesday of every month at 1 p.m. Registration and regular attendance is not required. For more information please call 920-623-1276.
Mommy & Me
CCH’s “Mommy and Me” class, provides support and education for mothers and their infants age 0-24 months.
The program, led by Wendy Sherwood, Lactation Consultant and LPN, focuses on weekly topics and facilitator led discussions. “This group is for any moms and their infants, regardless of where they delivered their child,” said Sherwood. “Sometimes a mom has ideas she has tried recently or has read something in a book or magazine that she finds helpful. By the moms sharing their experiences and knowledge they can help other moms.”
“Both the LaLeche League and the Mommy and Me programs are unique to our area,” added Sherwood.
The informal group is held the first and third Wednesday of every month at 2 p.m. Occasional guest speakers are provided for special topics. Registration and regular attendance is not required. For more information please call 920-623-1276.
