News Taffy

Breastfeeding offers many health benefits to both mothers and babies but is not always easy. Both new and experienced mothers who are interested in breastfeeding are constantly seeking out new information, tips and advice to aid in their journey. That’s why NEA Baptist Women’s Health has established a monthly peer support group for breastfeeding moms.

The support group meets the third Thursday of each month (the next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, January 21st) from 2 pm - 3 pm at NEA Baptist Clinic, located on the NEA Baptist medical campus at 4800 E. Johnson Ave. in Jonesboro. The support group is a free resource for expecting, new and experienced moms that is led by Michelle Mansker, Breastfeeding Peer Counselor for the Arkansas Department of Health. Mansker is a Certified Labor Doula, Certified Lactation Counselor, and volunteer/chapter leader for ICAN of Northeast Arkansas – a support group for cesarean mothers.  She has extensively enhanced her knowledge of breastfeeding through various continuing education opportunities, as well as personal experience.

The group offers both support and education in a peer setting. The group allows mothers to ask questions and discuss challenges while providing each other the support needed to meet personal goals through a positive and rewarding experience. Topics may include getting a good latch, returning to work, overcoming challenges and more. Breastfeeding moms are encouraged to attend and welcome to participate in discussion or to just listen for helpful information. Babies and children are welcome.

For more information about the group, please contact NEA Baptist Women’s Health at 870-936-3025. Signage in the lobby of NEA Baptist Clinic will direct participants to the private meeting area.

NEA Baptist also offers a monthly educational class that covers both childbirth and breastfeeding for expecting mothers. This free class is offered the 2nd Saturday of each month from 9 am – 4 pm in the Conference Center at the NEA Baptist medical campus. The classes are led bed Debi Treadaway, RN, childbirth instructor and Diana Roush, RN, IBCLC, breastfeeding instructor. The one-day session includes the entire childbirth experience, a tour of the Labor and Delivery Unit, relaxation techniques, basics of breastfeeding, troubleshooting, going back to work, using a pump and an open forum for discussion. Fathers are welcome at all classes. Participants must RSVP for a spot in the class by calling 870-936-3025.

NEA Baptist Health System comprises NEA Baptist Memorial Hospital, NEA Baptist Fowler Family Center for Cancer Care and NEA Baptist Clinic, northeast Arkansas’ largest physician group. The 216-bed hospital offers cancer care, heart care through the Heart Center, labor and delivery services through the hospital's Women's Center, as well as a number of inpatient and outpatient services, emergency care, and surgical services including weight loss surgery, neurology, respiratory care, and pulmonary rehabilitation. NEA Baptist Clinic’s over 100 physicians practice in more than 35 specialties and offer a wealth of services, from pediatrics to orthopedic services. For more information about NEA Baptist, please call 870-936-1000 or 870-936-8000 or visit www.neabaptist.com or www.neabaptistclinic.com.