Breastfeeding: You’re Not Alone. It’s a Team Effort!
Breastfeeding isn’t just a mother’s responsibility. Successful and sustainable breastfeeding takes a team! Here are some ways you can receive support and share the responsibility of breastfeeding to allow you and your baby to thrive.
FRIENDS & FAMILY:
Studies show that women who are surrounded by other moms who have breastfed are more likely to continue breastfeeding for a longer period of time, which benefits both mom and baby. Reach out to your friends, coworkers and family members who have breastfed. Ask them to share stories, tips and tricks. You are not alone! Asking friends and family to hold and care for the baby between feedings or for help with housework will allow you to stay rested and ready to feed. Follow these links for more tips on how friends and family, partners, and grandparents can help share the responsibility.
WIC:
No matter what stage you’re in on your breastfeeding journey, WIC is here to support you. WIC Peer Counselors are mothers who have breastfed their own baby and are specifically trained to help new moms with breastfeeding. Breastfeeding support groups are offered through WIC before and after the baby is born, and are a great way for moms to meet other moms from the community. WIC also provides individual breastfeeding care from International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) and Certified Lactation Counselors (CLCs), as well as assistance in accessing breast pumps. Follow this link to contact a WIC Breastfeeding Coordinator near you, or call (800)942-1007.
HOSPITALS:
Hospital staff, such as IBCLCs, and nurses can help you get the best start with breastfeeding by encouraging your healthy, full term baby to breastfeed within one hour of birth. Frequent breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact are great for bonding. Learning how to hold and position the baby helps with latch, which is so important! Nurses and IBCLCs can also help show you how to manually express your milk or use a breast pump if that is needed. Other important practices in the hospital include allowing the baby to stay in the same room as you (“Rooming In”) and avoiding formula supplementation unless medically necessary. High quality breastfeeding care in the hospital can help you achieve your breastfeeding goals. Use this resource to learn what to expect when breastfeeding in the hospital.
COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS/RESOURCES:
In addition to the resources provided by WIC, the Massachusetts Breastfeeding Coalition is a wonderful support for new breastfeeding families. Check out ZipMilk.org, an online directory for lactation support providers across the state. This directory will help you find different providers, including IBCLCs, breastfeeding counselors and educators, free community support counselors, medical professionals, support groups, and more near you! Baby Café is another helpful resource that offers free drop-in and informal breastfeeding support groups. Click this link to find a Baby Café near you! In-person support is still a challenge due to COVID-19. Pioneer Valley Breastfeeding Coalition offers multiple virtual support groups per week, with a specific breastfeeding Q&A session every Wednesday. Lastly, Boston Breastfeeding Coalition has a variety of virtual resources, including a Breastfeeding Support Warmline which is available 7-days a week. Click this link to learn more about Boston Breastfeeding Coalition’s support group offerings or call the warmline at (857) 301-8259.
BREASTFEEDING LAWS:
The state of Massachusetts has a law that preserves mom’s rights to breastfeed or pump in public spaces and at work. Since 2008, mothers have the right to breastfeed in any public place. As of 2010, companies are required to provide breastfeeding women with a private space and break time to pump. The space provided cannot be a bathroom and must include electrical outlets, a table and a place to sit. The Affordable Care Act established that insurance companies must provide basic breastfeeding support, counseling, and equipment during the duration of breastfeeding. Insurance providers also cover the entire cost of breast pumps, but be sure to check with your provider about what type of pump is covered. Contact your insurance provider to learn more about covered services. Use this link to find out more about breastfeeding laws.
Breastfeeding can make a huge difference in your health and the health of your baby…but it’s not just your responsibility. Remember—you’re not alone and it is always okay to ask your team for help!
About WIC:
WIC is a program for Women, Infants and Children. We offer free services to Massachusetts families who qualify. WIC provides healthy food for nursing mothers, infants and children. We offer support for breastfeeding mothers and education about nutrition and health.
To see if you qualify or to start an application online visit us at www.mass.gov/wic