Opelousas General Health System Celebrates World Breastfeeding Week & National Breastfeeding Month

In recognition of World Breastfeeding Week, celebrated internationally August  1-7 and National Breastfeeding Month, Opelousas General Health System will celebrate by hosting a free Community Baby Shower for all new & expectant parents on Thursday, August 8, from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., at the Delta Grand Theatre in Opelousas. Door prizes and refreshments will be available. 

Attendees can visit OGHS Women’s Services staff and numerous community agencies offering education and information on topics such as pre-natal care, breastfeeding, and new parent resources. Registration is not required, and this event is free. For more information visit OGHS on Facebook, or www.opelousasgeneral.com.  

Breastfeeding is an important part of fostering a healthy start in newborns. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), breast milk is the preferred and most appropriate source of nutrition for infants, adapting over time to meet the changing needs of the growing baby. Breastfeeding is also a proven primary prevention strategy, protecting both infants and mothers from a host of chronic and acute diseases and conditions and building a foundation for life-long health and wellness. The act of breastfeeding builds a strong emotional connection between the mother and infant, a bond which lasts a lifetime and evidence-based research indicates that infants and children who are breastfed are at a lower risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), infections of the ear, respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract and urinary tract, asthma, meningitis and obesity. 

Opelousas General Health System is proud to have obtained The Gift designation, which is an evidence-based designation program for Louisiana birthing facilities designed to increase breastfeeding rates and hospital success by improving the quality of maternity services and enhancing patient–centered care. The Gift designation gives Opelousas General Health System a better opportunity to achieve further certifications and accreditations, as well as meet national and international quality measures and standards of care.