Delnor Hospital's lactation program honored by national organization

Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital is now a recognized center for excellence in lactation care. The International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) and International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA) is honoring the Lactation Department at Delnor Hospital for its programs and activities to help protect, promote and support breast-feeding.

"Breast milk is an essential first start for a baby, providing all the nutrients and antibodies that are unique for a healthy beginning," said Sharon Lemon, international board certified lactation consultant at Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital. "Our focus is on educating families and providing the support and encouragement to help them achieve their breast milk feeding goals."

Lactation specialists at Delnor hold the prestigious International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) certification; and the Delnor New Life Maternity Center nursing staff and physicians, who are a vital part of the support team, receive ongoing education and updates.

"An important part of providing excellent breast-feeding care is having expert assistance available when the breast-feeding family needs it. IBCLC professionals are the health care professionals best suited to help families achieve their breast-feeding goals," said Regina Maria Roig-Romero, board chair of IBLCE.

According to Michele Griswold, President of ILCA, "IBCLCs help families realize the most precious bond with their children. They also assist families in providing their children with the best possible start in life. At ILCA, we are proud to support the IBCLC Care Award because we recognize the significant contributions of IBCLCs to improving global health outcomes at the local level."

With a focus on preventive care, the team at Delnor is available during pregnancy to assess and provide information on how to successfully initiate breast-feeding. They continue that assistance after the baby is born by helping families overcome breast-feeding challenges, providing accurate information, and continuing to support them as their baby grows. Moms are encouraged to call with concerns, schedule an outpatient visit and attend the weekly Breast-feeding Connection Support Group.

"We want to be there for every step moms take in their breast-feeding journey, help them through the hurdles and celebrate the achievements," Lemon said.