How Will You Feed Your Baby?

Deciding how to nourish your newborn is an extremely personal choice. Whether you decide to breastfeed or bottle-feed, Swedish will support whatever choice you make. We encourage you to gather as much information as possible to help you decide.

The benefits of breast milk are significant. In addition to providing the best possible nutrition for babies, it also boosts their immune systems so they will have fewer respiratory and gastrointestinal infections. Breastfeeding also reduces the incidence and severity of allergies, which can be especially important if there is a family history of allergies. If, however, you have health-related factors such as untreated tuberculosis, HIV infection, recreational drug use, etc., talk to your doctor about bottle-feeding your baby. If you have had breast-augmentation or reduction surgery, breast biopsies, or a thyroid condition, talk to one of our certified lactation consultants by calling 206-386-6667.

Swedish offers a breastfeeding class for you and your partner which you take before your baby is born. Plan to have all of your classes completed approximately four weeks before your due date. This class is specifically designed to teach both parents how to have a successful and rewarding breastfeeding experience. If you have concerns about breastfeeding before your baby is born, you are welcome to call 206-386-6667 to speak with one of our certified lactation consultants. These specialists, who are also registered nurses, will be available to you during your hospital stay if you have special concerns or questions.

If you have decided to bottle-feed your baby, be sure to have a supply of bottles and nipples on hand before your due date. You may want to purchase more than one type of nipple, as some babies do seem to have a preference. At the hospital, be sure to let the nursing staff know your plan to bottle-feed so they can help you both get off to a good start with the feeding experience.