Planning for Birth
Planning for Birth
In your work with expectant families, help them prepare to advocate for their decision to breastfeed. Whether the baby is born in a hospital, birthing center, or at home, support for breastfeeding can vary greatly. For example, some hospitals and birthing centers have lactation consultants or other staff available to visit each new mom and discuss breastfeeding. Others offer little support for breastfeeding and may even encourage the use of formula. Remind parents that the decision about how their babies will be fed is theirs to make. Talk with parents about how they will make their decision to breastfeed known. As you work with families, include their feeding decisions in their birth plans. Print out “crib cards” that identify children as breastfeeding. These can be placed in a crib with a newborn baby as a reminder to staff. Work with parents to learn about the resources that the hospital, birthing center, and/or community have available to breastfeeding mothers.
Refer to:
A Mother's Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding (Even if Your Hospital Isn't Baby Friendly)
Getting a Strong Start with Breastfeeding (in English and Spanish)
Guide to On–Line Breastfeeding Resources
Breastfeeding for a Head Start
The Important Role of Staff in Breastfeeding Education and Support
Creating a Breastfeeding Welcoming Program
Promoting Breastfeeding and Addressing Challenges
Planning for Birth
Supporting Families After the Birth
