What to expect from a breastfeeding support group
Breastfeeding can be tough and you may need encouragement and support throughout the process. If you are an expecting or new mother, this may be why you are considering a breastfeeding support group or meeting with a lactation consultant.
Breastfeeding support groups are typically a free community resource regardless of where your baby was delivered.
“The support groups are a place where moms can ask questions and get and give advice to other breastfeeding moms,” says Cindy Karaulos, a lactation consultant who runs a support group at Advocate Health Care. “It’s a great place for mothers to meet with other women they share something in common with: Breastfeeding.”
Karaulos shares these 4 breastfeeding support group tips:
- If you use a nursing pillow, bring it with you to the support group meetings.
- A baby scale and lactation assistance will be available during the group meetings.
- If you would like a more in-depth feeding evaluation, a lactation consultant can help you schedule an appointment at the hospital.
- A lactation consultant is also available after the group meetings if you have any unanswered questions.
Several professional medical organizations, including the World Health Organization, recommend newborns are breastfed for the first six months. After that, the guidelines recommend introducing appropriate complementary foods until the child is 12 months old.
What are the benefits of breastfeeding?
A baby receives antibodies from their mother through breast milk. This strengthens the baby’s immune system and reduces their likelihood of having ear infections and stomach bugs, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Breastfeeding also lowers your baby’s risk of asthma, obesity, type 1 diabetes and sudden infant death syndrome.
Mothers who breastfeed also experience health benefits, including a lower risk for breast cancer, ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.
Find breastfeeding support near you in Illinois or Wisconsin.
