Welcome to the Many Faces of Womanhood web page of Lee Memorial Helath System

The only one-stop location for pre-natal classes, Lactation support, and extensive lactation supplies in the community. Please feel free to visit us to browse our selection of high quality nursing bras, breast pumps, baby slings, nursing pillows (to name a few items), or to register for classes. New and expecting parents have LOTS of questions, so drop in and visit at the following locations or call 239-432-3271.

Classes
Lactation Services
Breastfeeding Supplies
Birth Suite Tours

Two Locations

HealthPark Medical Center: 4th floor, Suite 450, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (except holidays).

Cape Coral Hospital: 2nd floor, Women's and Children's call to make an appointment, 239-432-3271.

Childbirth Preparation is a unique course taught by nurses nationally certified by the International Childbirth Education Association (ICEA). The birthing process, choices in obstetrics, breathing, relaxation, cesarean preparation and Mother/Baby care are only a few of the topics covered in the course. A tour of the birthing facilities, films and fundamentals of the birthing bed are highlights of the course. 2009 Schedule. 2010 Schedule.

Breastfeeding. Plan to give your baby the best possible start! Learn about common problems encountered in the first few weeks. All classes are taught by BOARD CERTIFIED LACTATION CONSULTANTS. 2009 Schedule. 2010 Schedule.

Infant Resuscitation. This course teaches about the hazards to which children may be exposed, how to make the environment safer and basic rescue techniques (CPR & obstructed airway). 2009 Schedule. 2010 Schedule.

Baby Care. This is a one-time class for expectant parents. The class will assist parents in becoming more comfortable and confident in their parenting role following the birth of their baby. Topics include: bathing the baby, cord care, circumcision care, soothing your baby, holding and burping, taking baby's temperature, swaddling baby, diapering, dressing, car seat safety, and hands-on participation. 2009 Schedule. 2010 Schedule.

Lactation

Getting Started

Lactation Consultation by appointment. Call 239-432-3186. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advocates breastfeeding as the optimal form of nutrition for infants. The AAP states that "human milk and breastfeeding of infants provide advantages with regard to general health, growth, and development, while significantly decreasing risk for a large number of acute and chronic diseases."

Our Board Certified Lactation consultants assist mothers to become more comfortable with feeding their infants. New moms are encouraged to ask about how to:

Know your baby is getting enough milk
Determine that breastfeeding is going well
Return to work and continue breastfeeding

Getting Help

Recognizing that breastfeeding is normal, desirable and achievable, our Lactation consultants provide education, help and support for nursing mothers throughout Lee and surrounding counties. Our consultants make rounds and offer assistance to breastfeeding moms. The staff works closely with you and your physician to assure a team approach to your care.

All of our Lactation consultants are board-certified by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE). The IBLCE examination is the leading, internationally recognized measure of competence in lactation consulting. There are over 12,000 IBLCE certified Lactation consultants in the country.

Lactation Services Include:

Bedside, outpatient and telephone consultations
Certified bra fitting and sales
Breastfeeding supplies and breast pump rental
Prenatal breastfeeding classes.

Assisting Breastfeeding Mothers

Experienced, new and soon-to-be moms can all benefit from our various programs. Our staff is ready to assist with:

Difficult latch-on
Perceived or actual low milk supply
Sore nipples
Breast engorgement
Infant with slow weight gain
Re-lactation or induced lactation
Mothers returning to work
Flat or inverted nipples
Nursing twins, triplets, or more
Selecting and purchasing a nursing bra or breast pump
Education materials

During those times when a Lactation consultant is unavailable, mothers can turn to our highly trained obstetrical nursing staff for basic breastfeeding education and support.

More Lactation Services

Consultations and counseling