When first-time mom Sarah Thompson welcomed her daughter Brixton into the world, she imagined breastfeeding would come naturally. But like many new parents, she quickly discovered it wasn’t as simple as some people make it out to be.
“I was having issues with Brixton latching on when I first had her,” says Thompson, the Campbell River resident.
The turning point came when Thompson called her local public health unit and met with a lactation expert, Hayley.
“She gave me different techniques and taught me different positions to make it easier,” Thompson recalls. “She told me that breastfeeding is a journey, and not the easiest thing that people make it seem. It was nice to hear someone say that.”
Public Health Nurses, like Hayley Classen, offer support to all pregnant people and new parents, their babies, children and families. People may call or visit a public health unit for an infant feeding assessment and breastfeeding support.
“Having a new baby is an overwhelming time,” says Hayley Classen, Public Health Nurse. “Knowing there is someone there to listen and walk alongside them while they learn about their new role as a parent can take away some of the pressure and worry.”
All pregnant people may register for Right From the Start, for early access to a public health nurse throughout the prenatal journey.
Breast milk is an ideal food for all babies. The World Health Organization and Health Canada recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life.
Medical Health Officer Dr. Carol Fenton emphasizes the importance of community support. “Successful breastfeeding or chestfeeding is only possible, in supportive environments, including funded time off for the feeding parent, as well as safe spaces in workplaces, public places, and tailored support for the challenges they may encounter.” she says. “World Breastfeeding Week is an opportunity to raise awareness about the social and structural determinants that support breast/chestfeeding.”
“It’s a game changer to have a support network. Our western world has made it normal for families to live in isolation, but it can have a major positive impact on infant feeding, the parent’s mental health and our overall population health to offer wrap-around support from pre-conception and on,” says Classen.
Now, 13 months in, Thompson and Brixton are still breastfeeding. “All the tips Hayley gave me definitely helped me on my breastfeeding journey—and we’re still doing it! Having supportive people around you is important and makes it easier.”
National Breastfeeding Week is October 1 to 7 in Canada.
All pregnant people are encouraged to register for Right from the Start, Public Health Nursing services Right From The Start.
Parents and caregivers can call a public health unit at any time for breast/chestfeeding and infant feeding support.
For more breast/chestfeeding services and information visit Infant Feeding & Nutrition.