Today marks the first day of World Breastfeeding Week (thru August 7), which is recognized in more than 170 countries.
In San Diego, the UCSD Medical Center is highlighting its breastfeeding programs to commemorate the event.
The Surgeon General and the American Academy of Pediatrics agree that human milk is an optimal source of nutrients, calories, proteins and antibodies that boost a baby’s immune system, said health authorities.
UCSD’s Lactation Services’ sole purpose is to provide in depth information for moms interested in breastfeeding.
“As a baby-friendly hospital, UC San Diego offers a variety of breast-feeding services to our patients,” said Michelle Brubaker, UCSD public information officer.
Services include ongoing classes, personal instruction, and online supplements for moms who choose to breastfeed their babies.
Breastfeeding may not come naturally to some mothers.
Local
“What do those women do?" Brubaker said. "There are services available for moms who can’t breastfeed."
The Supporting Premature Infant Nutrition program (SPIN) was designed by UCSD medical experts to address the challenges of breastfeeding premature infants.
SPIN is the only program nationwide with premature breastfeeding awareness and believes premature infants receiving human milk will have development, medical and nutritional benefits.
For more information, visit the UCSD Lactation Services or SPIN websites.
