Breastfeeding Assistance Program
The Breastfeeding Assistance Program provides education and support to expectant and breastfeeding mothers.
About breastfeeding
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, breast milk is uniquely superior to any manufactured human milk substitute and is the preferred feeding substance for all infants, including premature and sick newborns. Breastfed babies receive their mothers' antibodies and immunities, which help protect them from infections and may reduce the risk of asthma, allergies, digestive problems, respiratory infections, childhood cancers, diabetes, bacterial meningitis and even diaper rash. Breastfeeding has been shown to provide health benefits for mothers, decreasing their risk of breast and ovarian cancers. The benefits of breastfeeding also produce significant cost savings: the cost of infant formula alone for six months is approximately $1,150.
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Who may participate
Expectant or breastfeeding parents may call the Health Center directly, at (209) 572-7262, to make an appointment with a Certified Lactation Consultant. A physician's referral is not required.
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Special features
- Individual education: Topics include understanding breastfeeding, twins and premature infants, and returning to work issues.
- Consultation to resolve nursing problems: Topics include adequate milk supply, baby's weight gain, latch-on and positioning, and continued services and engorgement.
- Telephone counseling: A Certified Lactation Consultant is available to address the problems experienced by nursing mothers over the telephone.
- Private lactation consultation: A Certified Lactation Consultant may meet with new mothers privately to discuss nursing problems.
- Breastfeeding support group: Breastfeeding mothers are invited to attend weekly support group meetings and share ideas and feelings with others in similar situations.
- Weigh station: A baby scale is available to weigh your infant as needed.
- Electric breast pump rental and sales: The program staff can assist new mothers in renting and purchasing breast pumps to meet their needs.
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Articles
Basic breastfeeding information, including cost and convenience?
What is breast engorgement?
How and when to stop breastfeeding?
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