Breastfeeding Services
The Nutrition Services department provides breastfeeding support services to Oneida Community Health Center patients as well as Oneida Nation WIC Program participants.
PRENATAL & BREASTFEEDING CLASSES:
We encourage all pregnant individuals and other infant caregivers to attend a prenatal & breastfeeding class to learn more about infant feeding and newborn behavior. Here are some options:
- Ready, Set, Baby: Includes a variety of topics to prepare for a seamless transition from birth to home.
- Offered weekly Mondays at noon and 2PM.
- These Ready, Set, Baby resources have information on topics covered.
- Hug your Baby: offers a free monthly “Preparing for Breastfeeding Success” interactive class
- Dates and times vary.
- These Hug your Baby resources have information on topics covered.
Our staff are available to help provide guidance and reassurance to breastfeeding moms to help them reach their goals. If you are interested in a lactation assessment, ask your healthcare provider at the health center for a referral or if on WIC, speak with your WIC Nutritionist.
BREASTFEEDING BENEFITS FOR MOM AND BABY
There are many benefits to breastfeeding which is why it is considered the most nutritious feeding method for infants.
Benefits for baby:
- Breast milk protects babies from infections, asthma, allergies, and eczema while reducing risk of diabetes and obesity.
- Breastfeeding enhances infant learning and breast milk fosters brain cell growth.
- Research has also shown that there is a lower incidence of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) among breastfed infants.
Benefits for Mom:
- Breastfeeding helps the uterus return to normal size after birth, can help control postpartum bleeding, and promotes postpartum weight loss.
- Breast milk is always available and at the right temperature, eliminating the need for bottles, sterilization, and formula, which can be expensive.
- Working mothers who breastfeed miss fewer days of work, because their babies don’t get sick as often.
THE KEY TO BREASTFEEDING: A GOOD LATCH AND FREQUENT FEEDINGS
Here’s what to look for with successful breastfeeding:
- Baby has a wide open mouth.
- Minimum of 8 feedings in 24 hours.
- No pain.
- Baby is gaining weight.
- Baby has adequate wet and dirty diapers.
If breastfeeding is difficult, pain is present, or if you have concerns about baby’s weight gain, the baby’s latch may need adjustment and our staff are here to help! Ask your healthcare provider at the health center for a referral or if on WIC, talk to a WIC Nutritionist.
AM I MAKING ENOUGH MILK?
One of the most common concerns of breastfeeding moms is whether they are making enough milk. Lots of wet and dirty diapers and good weight gain are signs that baby is getting enough. Remember, the more milk you remove from the breast, the more milk you will signal your body to make. The video link below provides more information. If you have questions, speak to your WIC nutritionist. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nUabZkZgiz0
MEDICATION WHILE BREASTFEEDING
Have a question about medication safety while breastfeeding? This document has information on common medications while breastfeeding. The Infant Risk Center has additional information and, for specific questions, you can call: 1-806-352-2519.
BREASTFEEDING AND COVID-19
Breastfeeding moms help their infants fight off viruses every time they breastfeed. Check out the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine’s statement about breastfeeding and COVID-19. For information on vaccination, check out The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists’ statement regarding COVID-19 vaccination for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
WIC BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT
Whether or not you are enrolled in WIC, this website has helpful breastfeeding information and videos for every stage of breastfeeding. Check it out at https://wicbreastfeeding.fns.usda.gov/.
