CDH Childbirth Center Receives Lactation Excellence Award

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

The Childbirth Center received the IBCLC Care Award because it employs internationally board-certified lactation consultants (IBCLCs) and provides a lactation program available five to seven days a week. The recognition highlights maternity facilities that help mothers get off to a good start with breastfeeding.

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

Cathy Carothers, ILCA president, said those efforts are “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 mothers who deliver at other facilities. For more information, contact Mattson at (413) 582-2096 or paula_mattson@cooley-dickinson.org.