News/Events

New Breastfeeding Data and National Breastfeeding Month

The recently released CDC 2020 Breastfeeding Report Card indicates breastfeeding initiation in Louisiana decreased from 70% in 2016 to 66% in 2017. The low initiation rate highlights the importance of strengthening prenatal breastfeeding education and supporting mothers in making informed decisions about how they feed their baby. While there are many opportunities for improving breastfeeding … Continue reading “New Breastfeeding Data and National Breastfeeding Month”

Revised COVID-10 Guidance on Care of Infants

Information about perinatal COVID-19 transmission is changing rapidly. Revised guidelines related to the care of infants at risk for maternal exposure to COVID-19 was recently released. Based on available data, the AAP’s initial guidance had recommended the temporary separation of newborns from their infected mothers.However, recent data prompted new AAP guidance, which indicates that mothers … Continue reading “Revised COVID-10 Guidance on Care of Infants”

The Gift’s Newest Shining Stars

So far, in 2020, 14 out of 40 Gift designated facilities also hold the prestigious The Gift Shining Star designation, the highest designation within The Gift program. Birthing facilities must apply for re-designation every two years and applications are reviewed quarterly. The most recent designation cycle occurred in June and the following hospitals received the … Continue reading “The Gift’s Newest Shining Stars”

Prenatal Education during “Sheltering in Place”

The COVID-19 pandemic presents new challenges for perinatal teams, including prenatal breastfeeding education. In-person clinic visits are limited and maternity care workers are having to find creative ways to connect with families. Patients may require different approaches to prenatal education. For example, one birth facility in Louisiana shared that they are piloting “introvert” and “extrovert” virtual classes. The introvert … Continue reading “Prenatal Education during “Sheltering in Place””