Breastfeeding and Lactation Counseling
Why should I breastfeed?
- Breastfeeding provides the ideal nutrition for an infant. The protein, fat, mineral, vitamin, and calorie content is superior to any store-bought synthetic formula. In addition, studies have shown that breast-fed babies have better brain development than those fed by formula, partly because of the superior nutrition from the breast milk.
- Breastfeeding provides natural immunizations. Babies who are breastfed have fewer illnesses and hospitalizations than those who are bottle-fed. Many diseases children come in contact with during the first six months of life can't be immunized against. Babies can't receive many shots that would prevent disease. However, breast milk has a natural quality that provides protection.
- Breastfeeding protects against common allergies. Many babies are allergic to common food products, such a cow's milk and soy, as well as environmental allergens.
- Breast milk is easier to digest than formula. Breastfed babies have less constipation, less diarrhea, and fewer irritations of the stomach.
- Breastfeeding provides bonding. Through the close contact that breastfeeding provides, a mother is more "in tune" with her child and the process of parenting is easier.
- Breastfeeding provides health benefits for the mother. It promotes faster weight loss after birth, stimulated the uterus to contract and return to its normal size, reduces postpartum bleeding, and provides an environment in which there are less urinary tract infections and less chance of anemia.
Breast Pump Loan Program
The Douglas County Health Department has a breast pump loan program to help provide breast pumps for mothers who choose to breast feed but cannot necessarily afford the equipment. Pumps are loaned 2 weeks after the birth of the child and there are a variety of types of pumps available. For more information on the pump loan program, contact Earline Dyer, RN, Certified Lactation Counselor at 217-253-4137.
Lactation Counseling
For those who are thinking about breastfeeding, or having problems breastfeeding, the Douglas County Health Department has a Certified Lactation Counselor on staff. For assistance with breastfeeding, please contact Earline Dyer, RN, CLC 217-253-4137.
WIC Moms and Breastfeeding
WIC Moms need to know certain things about breastfeeding. The WIC Program encourages breastfeeding as the preferred method of feeding children. In addition, the following should be considered:
- WIC is a supplemental program and will not cover the cost of all of your formula. You will have some costs of your own. Breastfeeding, however, is a supply that will not run out.