Breast Feeding Information
Breast feeding a great way to feed your baby and stay connected with them, and has many healthy benefits. A mother should always feel supported in her choice to breast feed.
✅ What you eat impacts your what is in your breast milk.
Smoking, vaping, or eating cannabis can be found in your breast milk, and has possible health risks such as lower birth weight, or impacts on baby brain development.
You may need to eat more while breastfeeding, to give you the energy and nutrition to produce milk.
Certain foods help you make more milk. These are foods that are high in protein, such as lean meats, dairy, beans, lentils. Whole grains are also important, as well as vegetables and fruit
✅ You have rights while working in California to breastfeed
You have the right to breastfeed in any public location, so long as mothers and babies can be present in that area.
Your employer must provide reasonable break time, and a specific space to pump breast milk. Certain rules apply to the specific space.
California State Universities and California Community Colleges must also provide a specific space for students to pump.
✅ Breast feeding has its’ own set of challenges.
A healthy and happy baby is the ultimate goal- through breast milk or formula.
Even while using formula, you can still supply your baby with any amount of breast milk for a positive impact.
Not all lifestyles and bodies support breast feeding, and it is okay to explore what’s happening with your body or explore alternatives to breastfeeding.
Resources:
Offers information on breast feeding, resources such as breast pumps and peer counseling, and nutrition support to eligible participants.
Find more info here; WIC Mendocino County and WIC Breast Feeding Page
Offers local resources and community connection to different breast feeding supports.
Find more info here: Mendocino Breast Start