WECHU’s Healthy Families: Lactation consultants and breastfeeding support
We are excited to announce that we have added a 3rd International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) to our Healthy Families Department! Our IBCLCs can provide virtual breastfeeding classes and individual support.
There are two options for our virtual breastfeeding support. The first is our prenatal breastfeeding class, which is 2 hours in length. This is offered monthly on Tuesdays from 6-8 p.m. We encourage parenting partners to join in. During this class, clients will learn how to:
- Prepare to start breastfeeding.
- Identify when your baby is hungry and full.
- Latch your baby to your breast.
- Comfortably position your baby.
- Assess if your baby is getting enough breastmilk.
- Prevent and address breastfeeding concerns (e.g., engorgement, supply issues).
- Obtain local breastfeeding support.
If you encounter new parents who are breastfeeding, our second option for virtual breastfeeding support is just for them! Our “Breastfeeding Support” groups are new and were developed for parents with newborns. These groups are led by one of our IBCLCs and are provided in an open format with ample opportunity for questions and answers. Parents can get continued support and expert guidance in their current breastfeeding journey.
Breastfeeding is more likely to be successful if a mother receives support and education in both the prenatal and postpartum periods. In your practice, as you encounter prenatal or postpartum women, please encourage them to attend a virtual breastfeeding session. Registration is required for these programs. The schedule, which includes the day and time and how to register, for both sessions is available at www.wechu.org/parents. Clients can also call 519-2582146 ext. 1350 to register.
Our Public Health Nurses (PHNs) also provide individual breastfeeding support through our “Ask A Nurse” Healthy Families Hotline. Phone support is available Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. and is provided to parents throughout Windsor-Essex County.
If breastfeeding concerns are out of the scope of our PHNs, one of our IBCLCs will provide further support through:
- A phone call
- A virtual visit OR
- An in-home visit.
If you encounter any prenatal or postpartum women who would benefit from individualized breastfeeding support, please contact us. You can call 519-258-2146, ext 1350 or complete an online referral form: https://www.wechu.org/parents. We are here to help and look forward to collaborating with you!