ROME, Ga., Aug. 2, 2024 – Scarlet Davis became so enthusiastic about breastfeeding after having her second child that she wanted to help other moms.
The full-time pharmacy technician at Atrium Health Floyd is also serving as a part-time lactation consultant and childbirth educator, helping moms to become more comfortable and knowledgeable about breastfeeding.
Davis had her second son, Kyrie in 2020. She was anxious because of the COVID outbreak, but Atrium Health Floyd's lactation experts helped her and her son thrive.
“I think they really supported my family, and that is one thing that really helped me," Davis said. “I think they knew I was anxious because the timing with COVID could not have been worse. They even involved my boyfriend, explaining to him things he could do to help."
Her first son, Kingston, was born in 2015 and spent time in Floyd's neonatal intensive care unit, the only Level III NICU in the immediate region. She nursed him for 13 months.
She nursed Kyrie for 3 years.
August is National Breastfeeding Month, and the last week of the month is Black Breastfeeding Week. While some might wonder why a special week is set aside for minorities, Davis said there is a reason why minorities might need more support.
“I think there are a variety of reasons why African Americans might not embrace breastfeeding," said Davis, Floyd's first African American lactation consultant. Sometimes you have to go back to work, and your employer might not be supportive. It might not be part of your family history."
Expecting mothers and new mothers can find the help and support they need to successfully breastfeed their baby at Atrium Health Floyd Women's Care Lactation Services. Board-certified lactation consultants offer one-on-one appointments and support.
Atrium Health Floyd also offer breastfeeding classes as part of its childbirth education courses, including:
- Pre-birth preparation
- Instruction on successful breastfeeding strategies
- Technique support
- Comfort management
- Support for premature infant feeding
- Milk supply education
- Instruction on breast milk expression and use of breast pump
- Prevention of engorgement
- Preparation for return to work
- Consultations
Lactation consultants are available to answer questions or discuss concerns about breastfeeding by phone and during one-on-one appointments or group discussion. To speak with our lactation consultants by phone, call 706-509-6548.