Welcome to Kennesaw Pediatrics, Your Home for Pediatric Healthcare! (770) 429-1005


Kennesaw Pediatrics is committed to providing complete pediatric care for our patients. The addition of our breastfeeding center is another example of this ongoing commitment. The feeding of an infant is one of the very first responsibilities of a new parent.

At the breastfeeding center our parents receive the educational advantage to make this a successful, fun experience while providing the best possible nutrition for a child. Our experienced Lactation Consultant will meet with you one on one right in our office.
She will answer your questions with care and compassion in a safe, relaxed environment, giving you all of the knowledge, confidence and support you need.

Who should see a lactation consultant?
Every new mom who wishes to breastfeed can benefit from a lactation consultation, whether planning to nurse for 1- 2 weeks or 1-2 years.

Many mothers are unsure how to breastfeed their newborn infant. Although natural, breastfeeding does not necessarily come easily. Often times, education is the key to success. With the help of our physicians and licensed, registered lactation consultant you can get past the common hurdles and ensure a successful feeding experience for you and your baby. Even those undecided or unsure about breastfeeding will gain the knowledge and information to help make the right decision. However, if you know you will be using only formula, a lactation consultation is not necessary.

Many 2nd and 3rd time parents tell us they find the consultation very helpful and wish they had had this information with their other children. Ultimately, this is your decision. We are here to help you.

Breastfeeding is not the only option for feeding your baby, however, every mother has the potential to succeed and make it a wonderful experience. Any amount of breastfeeding will help both you and your baby.

What will you learn?
     • How much milk is enough?
     • When you need to get help
     • How to breastfeed pain free
     • How to breastfeed at the office
     • What is normal breast feeding?
     • How often and how long to feed
     • How to tell if you’re making enough milk

Benefits of Breastfeeding
There are many benefits of breast milk for mothers and babies. Breast milk has disease-fighting cells called antibodies that help protect infants from germs, disease and illness. Breastfeeding is linked to a lower risk of these health problems in infants:
     • Asthma
     • SIDS
     • Diarrhea
     • Stomach viruses
     • Ear infections
     • Respiratory Infections
     • Childhood leukemia

In moms, breastfeeding is linked to a lower risk of Type 2 Diabetes, Breast Cancer , Ovarian Cancer and Postpartum Depression. Breast milk is different from infant formula. Colostrum, the thick yellow first breast milk that you make during pregnancy and just after birth, will give your baby the best start at life. Breastfeeding can also save you between $1,160 and $3,915 per year, depending on the brand of formula.

The U.S. SurgeonGeneral recommends that babies be fed only breast milk for the first six months of life. This means not giving your baby any other food or drink — not even water — during this time. Drops of liquid vitamins, minerals, and medicines are, of course, fine, as advised by your pediatrician. It is even better if you can breastfeed for your baby's first year or longer, for as long as you both wish.

Solid iron-rich foods, such as iron-fortified cereals and pureed vegetables and meats, can be started when your baby is around six months old. Before that time, a baby's stomach cannot digest them properly. Solids do not replace breastfeeding. Breast milk stays the baby's main source of nutrients during the first year. Beyond one year, breast milk can still be an important part of your child's diet.


Valerie Vanderlip, IBCLC, RLC Valerie has been working with breastfeeding mothers over 20 years. She is a warm, encouraging educator who teaches both mothers and babies how to have a successful breastfeeding relationship. Valerie has 3 children of her own, ages 14, 20 and 22. She loves being a mother and her hobbies include gardening and travel.