The first week of August is World Breastfeeding Week, a global effort to educate parents about the advantages of deciding to breastfeed, both for babies and mothers.
The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding up to 6 months of age, with continued breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary foods up to two years of age or beyond. The science is established and fairly well-known: Breastfeeding provides health benefits to infants such as nutrients and antibodies; a reduced risk of conditions such as asthma and obesity; as well as a lower risk of sudden infant death syndrome, or SIDS. It’s also free, and the skin-to-skin contact is good bonding time with your newborn.
What can be more difficult to overcome are other challenges that new mothers can face: from issues with supply or latching to social stigma and problems fitting in feeds and pumping with busy work schedules. Reaching out for support early and often can help new moms face these challenges head on. It doesn’t always come naturally: It takes time and practice. Placer County offers services to low-income mothers through the Women, Infants and Children program (placer.ca.gov/departments/public-health/wic-hs), including 1:1 lactation consultations and breastfeeding peer counseling support. Residents can call 916-784-6447 to find out if they are eligible or get a referral to other resources.
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