Importance of Breastfeeding Protection from acute and chronic illnesses for mothers and infants Individual and governmental cost savings

World Breastfeeding Week Established annually by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA). Celebrated globally August 1-7 or October 1-7, 2013.

World Breastfeeding Week 2013 theme highlights support for breastfeeding families. Supporting breastfeeding families is instrumental in creating a healthier future.

Why Support Breastfeeding? New mothers may get off to a good start and experience problems later. Many problems mothers experience are preventable through high quality care, follow-up, and support.

Types of Support Direct Support –Mother-to-Mother –IBCLC ® Supportive Environments –Family and Friends –Healthcare Providers –Employers –Childcare Providers

DIRECT SUPPORT

Mother-to-Mother Support Mothers value experiences from other breastfeeding mothers. Offered through peer counseling or mother-to-mother support groups.

Peer Counseling Support Breastfeeding Peer Counselor: –A mother who has successfully breastfed her own children –Lives in the same community and is of the same population served –Gives basic breastfeeding information and referrals for high-risk situations

International Board Certified Lactation Consultant ® (IBCLC) Support An IBCLC: –Completes 14 health science courses, 90 hours of lactation education, and hours of clinical experience –Abides by the IBLCE ® Code of Professional Conduct –Supports families with more complex and high-risk breastfeeding situations

SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENTS

Friend and Family Support Friends and family are a mother’s most immediate sphere of influence. Mothers are influenced by their beliefs and attitudes. Include family and friends in any breastfeeding education offered.

Healthcare Provider Support Healthcare Providers: –Are instrumental in normalizing breastfeeding. –Offer mothers access to skilled breastfeeding support. –Ensure practices are evidence- based and support breastfeeding.

Employer Support Employer lactation support programs : –Help mothers continue breastfeeding after returning to work –Are proven to have a good Return on Investment with increased employee productivity

Childcare Provider Support Childcare providers can help make the transition back to work/school easier for breastfeeding families. Proper handling and storage of milk and words of encouragement go a long way.

SUPPORTING BREASTFEEDING FAMILIES WITHIN YOUR COMMUNITY

YOUR Support Recommend early and exclusive breastfeeding. Ensure mothers have access to an IBCLC. Include the mother’s family and friends in any breastfeeding education.

YOUR Support Seek opportunities to improve your knowledge and skills in lactation management. Avoid inadvertently serving as an advertiser of breastmilk substitutes.