Breastfeeding Promotion and Support
WIC OrientationWIC Orientation
Missouri Breastfeeding Law Summary 1999
Hospitals provide information
Hospitals offer consultations
Physicians provide information
Department of Health and Senior Services produces written information
Allows a mother with discretion to breastfeed in
any public/private location
Experiences?
What are your experiences with breastfeeding?
How do you feel when you are around someone breastfeeding in public?
Have you ever breastfed?
Did you receive encouragement to breastfeed?
If you breastfed, what kind of help did you get?
Role Of WIC Provider
Your personal experience should not guide your support or promotion of
breastfeeding!
It is the WIC providers responsibility to provide our WIC participants with the knowledge and support to make an informed choice
Give families accurate information about the benefits of breastfeeding
Why Promote Breastfeeding in WIC?
USDA recognizes breastfeeding as best
Missouri 1999 Breastfeeding Law
American Academy of Pediatrics recommends
breastfeeding exclusively for the first
6 months
Cost reduction
Breastfeeding Benefits Availability
Digestibility
Fewer allergies, colds, diaper rashes, ear or stomach problems
Enhanced bonding
Promote nervous system development & higher IQ test scores
Natural appetite control
Breastfeeding Benefits for Mom Enhanced self-esteem
Increased confidence
Decreased after delivery bleeding
& risk of hemorrhage
Reduced risk of breast cancer in
young women
Convenience
Allows mom time to rest
Why Aren’t More Mothers Breastfeeding?
WIC can help mothers identify
their personal barriers to
breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding Promotion
Enthusiasm can go a long way!
Start education at your first opportunity
Give education in small frequent encounters
Involve family members in education
Don’t give formula - unless mom asks for it WOM ER#2.07600
Breastfeeding Peer Counseling Program
Kathy Mertzlufft, RD, LD
Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Coordinator
Department of Health and Senior Services
WIC and Nutrition Services
State Breastfeeding Support and Resources
Cathy Kruse, RN, IBCLC
State Breastfeeding Coordinator
Department of Health and Senior Services
Unit of Genetics and Healthy Childhood
1-800-877-6246