For Immediate Release: Feb. 8, 2012
CONTACT: Christina Trinchero, CDH Public Relations (413) 582-2421

NORTHAMPTON, Mass. – The International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners® (IBLCE®) and International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA) recognized Cooley Dickinson Hospital for excellence in lactation care.

The Childbirth Center received the IBCLC Care Award because it employs International Board Certified Lactation Consultants® (IBCLCs) and provides a lactation program available five to seven days a week for breastfeeding families. The recognition highlights maternity facilities that help mothers get off to a good start breastfeeding.

“We’re excited to be recognized for our efforts,” said Paula Mattson, registered nurse and internationally board certified lactation consultant at Cooley Dickinson Hospital. The recognition represents “the team of nurses, certified nurse midwives, doctors and the members of hospital administration who recognize the importance of supporting breastfeeding families.”

According to Cathy Carothers, President of ILCA, this recognition highlights efforts being made by maternity facilities across the world to help mothers get off to a good start with breastfeeding, and to support them in reaching their goals. “They are also an important part of the overall maternal and child health team by assuring that evidence-based policies and practices are in place that help mothers succeed in breastfeeding.”

Breastfeeding support programs are available to families who give birth at Cooley Dickinson Hospital as well as other mothers who deliver at other facilities. For more information, call (413) 582-2096.

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