Sleepy Eye Medical Center recognizes that no two breastfeeding journeys are the same. Thus, the unique needs and goals of each mom and baby are at the forefront of lactation care. With the leadership and experience of a Certified Lactation Counselor and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, SEMC offers up-to-date, evidence-based breastfeeding care and services to new mothers and infants.
In honor of World Breastfeeding Week 2020, we are excited to share the breastfeeding experience of one of our patients:
“When I found out I was pregnant, the one thing I knew I wanted was to breastfeed, and the staff at SEMC was more than supportive of that decision. A couple weeks before delivery, I was asked if I wanted to meet with Chiloe Kottke, SEMC’s International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. I wasn’t expecting this, so I definitely took the opportunity. I wanted to be as prepared as possible for this journey. She went through everything I should expect, and I left our meeting knowing I had her in my corner! She gave me her number and told me I could connect with her whenever I needed something—which I totally took advantage of. After I gave birth, the nurses did everything they could to make sure we got off to a strong start. Unfortunately, things were not as easy as I wanted them to be, and I quickly realized that breastfeeding was no walk in the park. We were going to frequent appointments for weight checks due to a low (milk) supply. At each appointment, I was encouraged by Dr. Adam Armbruster, Chiloe, and our wonderful nurse, Sara, to keep breastfeeding (because everyone knew that is what I wanted) and that even the smallest drop was beneficial to my baby. Chiloe even offered to spend time with us doing weighted feeds, checking latches, and encouraging me when I needed it the most. I tried everything to increase supply with no luck, but, due to the support I had, I stayed with it. The breastfeeding support at SEMC is outstanding and without it, I would have never made it to my goal of one year and, ultimately, 13 months of breastfeeding!”
-Kari Jo Borth, mother of Garrett Borth
Learn more: SEMC Celebrates World Breastfeeding Week 2020
