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Breastfeeding Support

“The American Academy of Pediatrics reaffirms its recommendation of exclusive breastfeeding for about 6 months, followed by continued breastfeeding as complementary foods are introduced, with continuation of breastfeeding for one year or longer as mutually desired by mother and infant.”

—American Academy of Pediatrics

WHY IS BREAST BEST?
Infants are Healthier:

  • Breastmilk contains antiviral and antibiotic agents that protect infants against disease.
  • Breastfed babies have fewer ear infections, colds, colic, constipation, and diarrhea.
  • Breastfed infants have less asthma, food allergies, and eczema as well as a decreased risk of getting certain childhood cancers, diabetes, colitis, and Crohn’s disease
  • Babies who are breastfed are less likely to die of SIDS (“crib death”)
  • Breastfeeding also promotes the correct development of the jaw, teeth, and speech.

Mothers are Healthier

  • Breastfeeding helps decrease bleeding after birth and promotes the return of the uterus to its pre-pregnant size
  • Breastfeeding decreases the risk of breast and ovarian cancer and helps prevent osteoporosis in later life
  • Some mothers lose weight faster when they nurse their babies.

Breastmilk is the Perfect Food for Babies:

  • Breastmilk is designed for human babies and contains the right amounts of nutrients for each stage of growth and development.
  • It is gentle to the baby’s stomach and easy to digest
  • Formula is made from cow’s milk or soy, but is just a food—it doesn’t have the living protective immune factors of breast milk.
  • Babies do OK on formula, but they do better if they have breast milk.

Breastmilk Costs Less and is Always Ready:

  • When a woman breastfeeds her baby there is no formula or bottles to buy, no mixing, measuring, heating, or concerns about spoilage. There is no cleanup.
  • Breastmilk is always warm and ready to drink; it makes nighttime feedings quick and going out easy

Breastfeeding is Special for both Mother and Baby:

  • Breastfeeding helps moms feel confident about themselves and close to their baby.
  • It provides a warm and cozy time for both mom and baby and is a special gift only mothers can give.


WHAT HELP IS AVAILABLE?
Breastfeeding Support:
The Modoc County Public Health Department has Certified Lactation Counselors on-site for education, support, and assistance regarding breastfeeding.  Pumps and other supplies are also available for Modoc County residents. Call 1-800-762-3003 or (530)233-6311 for more information

WIC: 
The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program also has Certified Lactation Counselors on staff who are available to answer questions and provide assistance regarding breastfeeding.  Call 530-233-5800 or 530-257-7094 for more information.


Online Resources: