Our WIC breastfeeding program provides breastfeeding classes, breast pump loans, and access to peer counselors, certified lactation counselors, and lactation consultants.
Benefits of Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding has many health benefits for both mom and baby:
- Infants who are breastfed have a lower risk of developing ear infections, asthma, respiratory infections, diarrhea and vomiting, childhood obesity, eczema, type 2 diabetes, childhood leukemia, and sudden unexpected infant death.
- For mothers, breastfeeding can help you recover more quickly from childbirth, and reduce your risk for high blood pressure, certain breast and ovarian cancers, type 2 diabetes, and may help you lose weight after childbirth.
Breastfeeding your baby
Learn the basics of breastfeeding and how you can nurture your baby’s future.
Peer Counselors
Mother-to-mother support has proven to be one of the most successful approaches to encourage mothers to breastfeed their infants. The WIC peer counselor:
- Serves as role model
- Helps develop your personal breastfeeding plan to get you and baby off to a good start
- Supports and encourages you to reach your breastfeeding goals.
- Teaches classes and provides education
- Provides referrals when necessary
Breast Pump Loan Program
Electric breast pumps are available to qualified breastfeeding mothers. Our breastfeeding support staff will determine if you qualify for an electric breast pump.
Breastfeeding Classes
Free breastfeeding classes are available to WIC clients! The class covers a wide range of topics related to breastfeeding, including:
- Myths and concerns of breastfeeding
- How breastfeeding works
- Positioning and latching
For upcoming classes, contact our WIC breastfeeding welcome center at 239-332-9615.