In honor of August's National Breastfeeding Month, we're focusing this month's edition of the Ask the Doctor series on breastfeeding, infant nutrition and related topics. Dr. Amanda Manceau-Kha will be taking inquiries until August 26. Use the form on our Ask the Doctor page to submit your questions anonymously.

Resources for new moms in Oklahoma

Baby-Friendly Hospitals

INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center and INTEGRIS Health Edmond have been recognized as Baby-Friendly Hospitals, which focus on breastfeeding education and support, safe infant feeding practices and bonding initiatives like skin-to-skin contact. There are more than 20,000 designated Baby-Friendly hospitals and birth centers worldwide. Currently there are 234 active Baby-Friendly hospitals and birth centers in the United States. The Baby-Friendly initiative is a global program sponsored by the World Health Organization and the United Nations Children’s Fund. Learn more about the Baby-Friendly initiative at ok.gov.

Edmond Baby Café Offers Support

Metro-area mothers also have a resource in Edmond for breastfeeding support and help through the Baby Café at INTEGRIS Health Women's Center, a free support group for soon-to-be and new moms. Certified lactation consultants are on staff, but visitors can also find comfort and support from other new moms. In addition to the INTEGRIS Baby Café in Edmond, lactation consultants are available throughout the INTEGRIS Women’s Health Network of Oklahoma. Many of our facilities offer a number of free breastfeeding classes and support groups, too.

INTEGRIS Breast Pump Program

Our hospitals offer Medela breast pumps for new mothers. To purchase one for yourself, call 405-951-8799. We will verify your benefits to determine coverage.  With the Affordable Care Act, private or commercial insurance could cover costs up to 100%. For tips and educational videos, visit the Breast Pump Program website.