When mothers are able to get off to a good start with
breastfeeding, all too often in the weeks or months after delivery, a large number of mothers stop breastfeeding
or use formula to supplement their breastfeeding. The period when breastfeeding moms do not visit their
primary physician after delivery is the time when a community support system for mothers is essential. As
noted by the World Health Organization,
"The key to best breastfeeding
practices is continued day-to-day support for the breastfeeding mother within
her home and community.”
August 1-7 is World
Breastfeeding Week. The theme for the week is “Breastfeeding Support: Close to Mothers”, and it highlights the importance of breastfeeding peer
counselors in helping breastfeeding families be successful.
At Livingston County
Health Center, we are dedicated to supporting mothers and families to help them
reach their breastfeeding goals. Breastfeeding Peer Counselor and Certified
Breastfeeding Educator, Rachel Snider, has been with the health center
since 2009. Rachel works closely with
the WIC participants and meets with each mom and family several times during
their pregnancy. In talking with the moms and families, she teaches them about not only the benefits of
breastfeeding, but also many of the helpful hints and techniques of the “how” to
breastfeed. She is also there for
support after the delivery of the baby. The health center also has a Lactation Consultant on staff for
referrals from the Breastfeeding Peer Counselor.
Anita Perry, ICBLC, CBE
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