KSHB: Saint Luke's Breastfeeding Support Group Helps Moms Continue Long-Term Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding rates are on the rise in the U.S. and Kansas City is no exception. Doctors say 'breast is best' for babies, therefore more mother's are trying to breastfeed their little ones. Saint Luke's lactation consultants help moms through their breastfeeding journey through Saint Luke's East Breastfeeding Support Group.
Marji Stark, a lactation consultant at Saint Luke's East Hospital, said, "Currently in Missouri we have about a 70 percent initiation rate for mothers who begin breastfeeding at all. By 6 months, that's about 40 percent. Then, by one year, that's about 20 percent."
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusively breastfeeding for the first six months and breastfeeding for one year.
Dr. Barbara Carr, system medical director for Saint Luke's Neonatal Intensive Care Units, talked to KSHB about the biggest barriers for mothers reaching their breastfeeding goal.
"Usually it's going back to work is one of the biggest things I hear from moms and they don't necessarily find they have the support at work that they need to be able to continue to breastfeed," Carr said.
Hear from local mothers who work full time about breastfeeding their little ones and the challenges involved, and see how Saint Luke's East Breastfeeding Support Group can help.
Going back to work and breastfeeding is difficult. Hear what your conversations you should have leading up to your maternity leave with your employer and how you are protected to pump while at work.
