Breastfeeding has numerous proven benefits for your baby. Some of these benefits include a decreased risk off childhood illness, lower risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome), and lower risk of obesity and diabetes later in life. Breastfeeding does not always work for every new mom, but we hope to give you as many tools as possible so that you can make the best decision for your family. INOVA Fairfax hospital has a team of lactation consultants that will help you with nursing every day that you are in the hospital. There is also a store in the hospital with breastfeeding supplies and breast pumps for rent. You can have your baby stay in the room with you 24 hours a day to facilitate nursing if you desire. The nursery is also available if you want to get some rest, but the decision is completely yours. Below is a link to the INOVA Fairfax breastfeeding center.
After you leave the hospital, INOVA Fairfax offers a breastfeeding mother’s support group. This group meets every Thursday from 10 to 11 a.m. on the 7th floor of INOVA Women’s Hospital, 3300 Gallows Road, Falls Church and is open to mothers and babies.
Additionally, many insurance companies now provide coverage for a breast pump. Please contact your insurance company to see what coverage your insurance provides.