Research shows that breastfeeding has many health benefits for both infants and mothers. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, “human milk provides virtually all the protein, sugar, and fat your baby needs to be healthy.” Breastfeeding also benefits your baby’s immune system, helping to protect her against a wide variety of diseases and infections, and helps create a close bond between mother and child.
Plus, breastmilk is free, always ready, and doesn’t require sterilized bottles!
Breastfeeding does not always come easily to mothers or their babies. That’s why there are all kinds of great and FREE resources in our community to assist new moms with breastfeeding.
If you are having trouble breastfeeding, a great first step is to visit with a lactation consultant. An Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC, for short) will check to make certain your baby has a good latch to help keep you comfortable and assure your baby is getting the nutrition she needs. They will help you learn how to get your baby to latch correctly every time! Your lactation consultant will also be able to answer your questions and help solve any issues you might be experiencing.
Resources
Women Infant Children (WIC)
Western Nevada County: 530-265-1454, 988 McCourtney Road, Grass Valley
Eastern Nevada County: 530-582-7814, 10075 Levon Avenue, Truckee
Provides in-home support for breastfeeding women. Most families with Medi-Cal qualify for free WIC services. Give them a call and ask if you qualify.
The Nest
530-637-8411 (530-NEST411), 107 W Main Suite B Grass Valley
The Nest offers a free drop-in New Parent Support Circle classes on Thursdays from 12:00 pm to 1:30 pm for breastfeeding assistance.
Sierra Care Physicians Pediatrics
530-272-9780, 140 Litton Dr. Suite 100, Grass Valley
New parent support group, facilitated by Kris Jassen-Mather, an IBCLC. Wednesdays from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm. Everyone is welcome!
Maternal, Child, & Adolescent Health Program, Nevada County Public Health
530-265-7269, 500 Crown Point Circle, Grass Valley
Provides support, education, and home visits with a public health nurse, including breastfeeding resources and support.
Need more support? Check with your insurance carrier; many policies will pay for a certain number of in-home visits with an IBCLC.
211 has more great resources for parents and families. Check out our Children & Youth guided search page to connect.