Monument Health takes breastfeeding pledge

Monument Health takes breastfeeding pledge

RAPID CITY, S.D. (March 25, 2018) – Monument Health has taken the pledge to be a Breastfeeding-Friendly Business and will hang a “Breastfeeding Welcome Here” window cling at public entrances in all 48 Monument Health facilities.

The pledge shows that Monument Health is willing to provide an environment where mothers can breastfeed in public spaces and enjoy a welcoming attitude from staff, management and other visitors to its healing environments. The pledge also demonstrates Monument Health’s commitment to employee health by providing breastfeeding employees the appropriate time and space necessary to express breastmilk.

Breast milk is uniquely superior and perfectly designed for a baby’s nutritional and immunological needs. Breastfeeding is the foundation for improving the health and well-being of mothers and children in South Dakota. Benefits to infants include a decrease in sudden infant death syndrome, respiratory illnesses like asthma and pneumonia, diabetes and childhood obesity. Benefits to mothers include decreased risk of breast and ovarian cancer and improved weight loss after birth, according to the South Dakota Department of Health.

“The South Dakota Department of Health applauds Monument Health for being the first healthcare system in South Dakota to take the pledge systemwide! By becoming a Breastfeeding-Friendly Business, Monument Health has demonstrated its commitment to mothers, children, and families in our South Dakota communities.” said Megan Hlavacek, Healthy Foods Coordinator for the Department of Health.

“As health care providers, we at Monument Health know how important breastfeeding is for mother, baby and family,” said Shanon Waldner, Director of Women and Children Services. “We have certified lactation consultants in Rapid City and Spearfish to help new mothers. All of our postpartum nurses are trained to assist with breastfeeding, and we have outpatient services available in Rapid City and Spearfish.”

Although statistics show that 83.6 percent of South Dakota mothers initiate breastfeeding, the percentage drops off significantly after 6 months and again at 12 months of age. Experts recommend that babies consume nothing but breast milk until six months, then in combination with other foods at least until their first birthday.

CONTACT:
Dan Daly
Communications Specialist
Strategic Marketing and Communications
Monument Health
605-755-9178
ddaly@monument.health