North Central Baptist Hospital will be hosting the International "Quintessence" Breastfeeding Challenge this year. On October 2nd at 11:00 am CST, we will have a spontaneous breastfeeding latch-on throughout the world. Last year more than 6000 babies were counted in the official world-wide count. There will be snacks, door prizes and educational booths for the entire family. Join us in the Atrium Lobby.

Saturday, October 2nd
9:30 am to 12:00 pm
North Central Baptist Hospital
520 Madison Oak Drive, 78258
Atrium Lobby

Registration - Contact Mary Beth to register at 297-2069 or email mblue5000@yahoo.com.  Registration is not required.  First 50 to register will receive a free gift and be eligible for door prizes.

Baptist Health System and North Central Baptist Hospital are going green. Isn't it great to know that breastfeeding is renewable, ecofriendly and leaves no carbon footprint? Because breastfeeding uses no other resources other than food for the mother, it's sustainable anywhere in the world. Breastfeeding is not just a lifestyle choice, it is a health, social and environmental choice for our children. Go to: www.ecomall.com for more information on the environmental impact of breastfeeding on our world.

World Breastfeeding Week is August 1st through 7th.  The theme is "Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding".  As a Texas Ten Step Hospital through the Texas Department of Health Services, North Central Baptist is committed to helping families achieve their breastfeeding goals. For more information on World Breastfeeding Week, go to www.worldbreastfeedingweek.org.

Moms are often given a nipple shield to use in the hospital and have questions about use of the shield and weaning. A nipple shield can help in many situations including difficulties latching, transitioning to breast from many bottles, use with preterm infants, babies with weak/dysfunctional sucks, or flat/inverted nipples. Lactation consultants recommend close follow-up for weight gain and milk supply after discharge. With correct usage and close follow up, many babies can successfully learn to breast feed without a shield.

2010 World Breastfeeding Week is August 1st - 7th. The theme this year is "Just Ten Steps: The Baby Friendly Way". The Baptist Health System has been Texas Ten Step certified since 2008. For more information on World Breastfeeding Week, go to www.worldbreastfeedingweek.org.

Concerned about the cost of purchasing or renting a breast pump? The average cost per month of formula for brand names is around $80-120/month or $960-1440/year! The cost of a purchased pump is usually under $280 and rentals are $70/month or total of $840 for a full year. It's economical and environmental!

Many mothers have questions about medications and safety during breastfeeding. In the Mother's Milk First Lactation Center at North Central Baptist Hospital, we carry the most current edition of Medications and Mother's Milk by Dr. Thomas Hale. Most medications are safe to take during breastfeeding, including most antibiotics and pain medications. For questions/concerns, call 297-4086.

Many parents have had questions about reimbursement for breastpump rental or purchase. Medela has put together a guide with questions to ask insurance companies regarding coverage and benefits. Go to:

www.medelabreastfeedingus.com/tips-and-solutions/138/read-first-coverage-questions 

For information on a new documentary due out on Mother's Day 2010 titled "Babies" that follows the lives of 4 babies around the world through their first year, go to www.medela.com, click"breastfeeding" to view trailer as well as enter the sweepstakes to win savings bonds and photo shoot.