Getting Started
Breastfeeding Your BEST
Getting Started
Breastfeed your best by taking care of yourself and learning about the benefits of breastfeeding.
Benefits of Breastfeeding
- Provides all the energy and nutrition your baby needs.
- Breastmilk is always available for you and your baby at zero cost.
- Breastmilk is easily digested by baby and protects from disease.
Taking Care of Yourself
To help breastfeed your best, take time to care for yourself so you can take care of your baby.
EAT
Your body is working hard to create milk so you can feed your baby. Eating regularly can help keep your energy levels up and nourish you body. Focus on creating meals that contain protein-rich foods, whole grains, fruits and vegetables.
DRINK WATER
Keeping hydrated will help you feel the best you can and prevent you from getting dehydrated. Breast milk is 90% water, so it is imporant to drink water while breastfeeding. Keep a water bottle close by to aim for 16- 8 ounce cups.
REST
Rest and sleep are important for a breastfeeding mom to keep up energy and milk production. For the first few months, it is normal to get less sleep and you may need to sleep in short stretches. Try to have the same sleep schedule as baby when it fits into your schedule.
GET ACTIVE
Always check with your doctor before starting an exercise program. You can begin by walking, pushing baby in the stroller, or simply by getting out of the house. Being active can help increase energy levels, reduce post-partum depression, and increase your muscle strength so you can easily pick up your baby. You don’t have to do much-30 mintues of exercise twice a week can help.
ASK FOR HELP
You are not alone with breastfeeding. Ask for help from your partner, family members, or friends who are supportive with your breastfeeding journey. Feeling guilty is normal but know it’s an overrated emotion. You will not know all the answers, don’t feel guilty for things you don’t know. Asking for help can provide you a learning opportunity in your role as a mother.
ENJOY YOUR BABY
Breastfeeding provides a special time for you and your baby. Skin-to-skin bonding can help you and baby get off to a good start with breastfeeding and helps you and baby feel closer. Feeling close to your baby can increase your confidence to care and respond to their needs.
WIC Breastfeeding Team
Your WIC breastfeeding team is here to help you with your breastfeeding journey. See description below who is a part of your WIC breastfeeding team!
English
Your WIC breastfeeding team is here to guide you through your breastfeeding journey. We provide support, resources, and personalized assistance to help you achieve your breastfeeding goals. Whether you have questions or need practical advice, we’re dedicated to ensuring you feel confident and supported every step of the way.
WIC Nutritionist
A WIC nutritionist offers nutrition education and breastfeeding support to help you confidently care for your baby.
What They Do
- Height and Weight of baby to make sure baby is growing well.
- Start breastfeeding conversation.
- Ensure you and baby are getting enough nutrition.
How They Help
- Offer you a Breast pump
- Offer you Breastfeeding supplies.
- Refer you to Peer Counselor or Designated Breastfeeding Expert
- Provide you breastfeeding resources
Peer Counselor
The WIC Peer Counselor Program offers certified pregnant and breastfeeding mothers free, expert peer-to-peer support for any breastfeeding questions or concerns, including advice based on current research, and assistance outside regular clinic hours.
What They Do
- Work one-on-one with WIC families
- Offer free lactation support.
- Offer service for up to one and half years.
- Provides virtual, phone, text, and clinic support
How They Help
- Basic breastfeeding support.
- Latching and positioning.
- Tips for making enough milk.
- Refer to Designated Breastfeeding Expert when high breastfeeding challenges occur.
Español
Su equipo WIC para lactancia está aquí para guiarle en su jornada amamantando. Le ofrecemos apoyo, recursos, y asistencia personalizada para ayudarle a cumplir sus metas lactando. Ya sea si tiene preguntas o necesita consejos prácticos, estamos dedicados a asegurar que se sienta segura y apoyada a lo largo del camino.
Nutricionista WIC
Un nutricionista WIC ofrece educación de nutrición y apoyo de lactancia para ayudarle a que cuide a su bebé de forma segura
Qué Hacen
- Altura y Peso del bebé para asegurarse que está creciendo bien
- Comenzar la conversación sobre lactancia.
- Asegurarse que usted y su bebé están recibiendo suficiente nutrición
Cómo Ayudan
- Le ofrecen una pompa para lactar
- Le ofrecen suministros de lactancia.
- Le refieren a una Experto de Lactancia Designado o Consejero de Pares
- Le ofrecen recursos de lactancia
Consejero de Pares
El Programa de Consejero de Pares le ofrece a mujeres certificadas como embarazadas y amamantando, apoyo de pares gratuito, para cualquier pregunta o preocupación sobre la lactancia, incluyendo consejos basados en investigaciones actuales, y asistencia fuera de las horas de la clínica.
Qué Hacen
- Trabajan uno a uno con las familias
- Ofrecen apoyo de lactancia gratuito.
- Ofrecen servicio hasta por un año y medio.
- Ofrecen apoyo clínico virtual, por teléfono y texto
Cómo Ayudan
- Apoyo básico de lactancia.
- Enganche y posicionamiento.
- Ideas para generar más leche.
- Referido a un Experto en Lactancia Designado cuando ocurren dificultades serias en la lactancia.