Natural Feeding
Made Easy
By Bonny Osterhage
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends
breast-feeding an infant for the first year of life. Why?
Because breast milk is chock-full of vitamins, minerals
and nutrients that can boost immunity and prevent a myriad
of medical complications. Some studies have even
linked breast milk to higher IQs and lower incidence of
SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome).
While we know that breast-feeding is an excellent nutritional choice for
baby’s first year, it is something that is often easier said than done. Work
schedules, low milk production, postpartum issues and more can leave
moms feeling frustrated and stressed — not exactly the serene picture of
a mother nursing a child!
Fortunately, there are many products and resources that can make it
easier for moms who choose to breast-feed to do so with confidence.
One of the most convenient is the Phillips Avent IQ System Breast Pump.
This electronic machine actually works with a woman’s own body to
mimic her baby’s feeding patterns. “It is a very personalized experience,”
says Shannon Jenest, public relations officer for Phillips Avent.
Available in uno, duo and manual, the pump works by allowing a
mother to program the speed at which her milk naturally flows after letdown
with the push of a button. The machine remembers the pattern
from session to session. The best part is that it can be reprogrammed as
needed to allow for baby’s changing dietary needs. “It gets the optimum
amount of milk every time,” explains Jenest.
The machine works with the Avent Via storage containers, which are a
versatile tool for busy moms. They can simply pump their milk into the
container and then pop it in the fridge or freezer for later use, or put a nipple
on top and use it immediately.
The containers stack for easy storage and are easily interchangeable
with the Avent bottle system. Avent bottles are known for their ability to
reduce colic, and this year the company has unveiled two new bottle
products that make feeding baby even easier.
The new Airflex bottle is designed with a better sealing system to prevent
leakage, while the Tempo is Avent’s first disposable system with liners.
Both types maintain the same colic-reducing valve design that pushes
the air to the bottom of the bottle, which, in turn, helps push the milk
through the top of the bottle and the nipple.
In addition to the convenient and easy-to-use products, Avent recently
launched the ABC or Avent Breastfeeding Center through its Web site,
www.avent.phillips.com. Here, moms can find a variety of resources for
breast-feeding, including how-to’s, streamlined videos and assistance in
locating a lactation consultant.
“We are a company founded on the idea of choice,” says Jenest. “We
want mom to have as many choices as she needs in order to feed her
baby the way she wants.”
Did you know that Baptist Health System offers the
Mother’s Milk First program designed to help
women with issues related to breast-feeding? The
Lactation Center is available for a variety of services
including:
• Free inpatient and outpatient consultations
• Breast-feeding support products
• Pump rentals and sales along
with instruction and support
• Special attention to intensive-care
babies and their families
• Consultations for mothers returning
to the workforce
• Assistance with special situations,
such as breast-feeding multiples
• Educational materials and resources
• Breast-feeding telephone assistance
For more information, an appointment for a consultation
or to register for a class, call (210) 297-7005.
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