World Breastfeeding Week: VA helping Veterans through motherhood

The first week of August is observed as World Breastfeeding Week. The observance is dedicated to spreading awareness on the importance and benefits of breastfeeding for both the mother and

baby.

For first-time mothers, lactation can bring about uncertainty, however, the women’s health team at VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System supports Veteran mothers throughout their maternal

experience.

“We have a lot of prenatal and lactation resources and assistance dedicated to women Veterans,” Kathleen McCutcheon, TVHS maternity care coordinator said. “Our lactation clinic focuses on

helping moms learn how to breastfeed and ensuring she has the appropriate supplies and support. We really just want the clinic to be a comfortable and welcoming environment for Veteran

mothers.”

At TVHS, Veteran mothers are provided with lactation supplies and kits, one-on-one classes, and plenty of free materials to guide them throughout the motherhood and lactation experiences.

Similarly, mothers can use the lactation rooms throughout the Chattanooga, Nashville, and Murfreesboro campuses to pump or feed their little one in a private space. Plans are underway to

create lactation rooms at the Clarksville VA clinic. 

“The lactation rooms were a huge win for mothers, both staff and Veterans,” Beverly Groogan, women’s health coordinator said. “It’s a way for us to provide a safe and more inclusive

environment for mothers. I’ve heard so many wonderful things from Veterans and staff about having those available.”

In various studies, lactating is shown to be a crucial moment in motherhood and childhood and offer several health benefits to the mother and baby.

“Women who are able to lactate reduce their chances for breast and ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure,” McCutcheon said. “It also helps with bonding and reducing

stress.”

For newborns, evidence-based research shows the longer infants feed the greater their protection is against illnesses and disease such as sudden infant death syndrome, diabetes, and

respiratory infections.

Veterans who are looking for maternity care are encouraged to visit the women’s health team at TVHS. The nurses and clinicians are deeply experienced and work closely with patients to

identify their specific needs and resolve complex issues.

“Our team builds a professional relationship with each woman because health care can be complex, so when we have a stronger connection with patients, we’re able to work together and find

what matters most to the patient and aligns with their goals,” McCutcheon said.