Becoming a mother is a joyful time. It can also be a challenging one. Almost every week, I see a new mother who wonders, “How can I tell if my baby is getting enough breast milk?” We need to continue to focus our effort on supporting moms. This includes hospital staff who work with new moms and their families, and of course those supporting mom when she returns home, and then beyond when she returns to work.
If you’ve given birth at Sunnybrook or have a care provider at Sunnybrook, you have access to our Breastfeeding Clinic and 24-hour helpline. We encourage you to use it, we’re here for you and no question is too insignificant. And don’t forget about community resources like Toronto Public Health and La Leche League who can encourage and support you.
When you’re back at home with your baby, ask for help. People often want to do something but aren’t sure what. Ask for help with meals, laundry and unloading the dishwasher – these are all valuable when a newborn is nursing 8 or more times a day. This gives you more time to spend feeding and getting to know your baby.
Don’t forget that it’s possible to continue feeding your baby breast milk when you return to work. This is actually the theme of National Breastfeeding Week, with tips for mothers on pumping and other practical considerations.
We encourage you to access breastfeeding services, and your loved ones, so you’re in the best position to feed and care for your baby.
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Top 10 reasons to breastfeed
Nutrients
Breast milk is custom-made by each mother and contains the perfect amount of protein, carbohydrate, fat, vitamins and minerals
Smarts
Evidence suggests: breastfed children score higher on IQ tests.
Convenience
Breast milk is safe, fresh and exactly the right temperature. No heating or sterilizing required!
Versatility
Big or small, your breasts will produce milk. The more baby breastfeeds — the more milk you will produce!
Good for mom
Breastfeeding provides protection against some cancers and weak bones later in life; It can also help you to gradually lose weight gained during pregnancy
Bonding time
Breastfeeding encourages closeness and comfort, and can strengthen the bond with your baby
Long-term
Many mothers continue to breastfeed past two years. Any amount of breastmilk is always good for babies.
Cost-efficient
Without question, breastfeeding saves hundreds, even thousands, of dollars
Working moms
Your baby can have all the benefits of your milk even if you plan to go back to work or school. You can express milk by hand or with a breast pump and leave it with your caregiver to feed your baby.
Environmentally friendly
Breastfeeding is easy on the environment: No unnecessary packaging or waste
Sunnybrook supports breastfeeding mothers.
If you’ve delivered your baby at Sunnybrook, contact the Breastfeeding Clinic: Bayview Campus, 2075 Bayview Avenue, M-wing, 5th floor, Room M5-203
Phone: 416-480-5900
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