Breastfeeding

At Michael Garron Hospital (MGH), we support all families in their infant feeding decisions. Breastfeeding is an inexpensive, natural and healthy way to feed your baby. From the very first hour of life, breast milk is considered a healthy food and provides fluid and nutrients a baby requires. Breastfeeding exclusively for the first six months of life provides the baby with the energy, nutrients and fluids necessary for healthy growth and development. 

Recognizing that people of all genders are often able to feed their babies, we use the terms chestfeeding and breastfeeding interchangeably. Please let us know if there is terminology that you feel most comfortable using. 

Our Promise to Families

• We have a breastfeeding and chestfeeding policy and a family support using formula policy.  
• Our staff will have breastfeeding education.  
• We can inform you about the benefits and management of breastfeeding. 
• We can help you learn to breastfeed.  
• We can help you start breastfeeding early.  
• You and your baby are not separated during your stay in the Family Birthing Centre. 
• You will be encouraged to have skin-to-skin contact with your baby as much as possible.  
• You will be encouraged to breastfeed whenever your baby wants.  
• No bottles or soothers will be given to your baby if you are breastfeeding or chestfeeding.  
• You will be given a list of community supports. 

Tips When Starting to Breastfeed

• Avoid using pacifiers (also called dummies or soothers). 
• Be sure to breastfeed in a comfortable position.  
• Keep baby skin-to-skin as much as possible. 
• Use baby’s cues to determine when baby is hungry. This is much more effective than scheduling set feeding times. 
• Breastfed babies will feed at least eight or more times in a 24-hour period. 
• If breastfeeding or chestfeeding, do not give your baby any supplemental food or fluid unless medically indicated. 
• You can still breastfeed if you have a cold or the flu. Talk to your doctor or midwife if you are taking any medications while breastfeeding.  
• Nipple soreness is often related to your latch, so you should first make sure the latch is correct.