Social Inclusion

What does it take for a Chatham-Kent mother to be able to meet the Global Infant Feeding Recommendation of exclusively breastfeeding for the first 6 months and then continuing to breastfeed and feed solid foods for up to 2 years?

It takes a system that supports breastfeeding and includes pregnant and breastfeeding mothers in research, understanding that most women and children are impacted by illness and emergencies and need to be cared for as our most vulnerable citizens. It takes a system that recognizes that breastfeeding is a normal behavior that it doesn’t need to be done in secret. All mothers should feel comfortable to feed their baby anytime, anywhere and should be supported to continue to provide breastmilk to their infants when they return to work.

It takes Health Care Professionals that understand the importance of breastfeeding and have the knowledge and skills to support her if she has questions or difficulties.

It takes a community and family that helps with daily chores, like making meals and doing laundry and dishes in the early weeks; that recognizes being a new mother is not easy and that it can up 6 weeks to learn to breastfeed.

It takes an understanding that being a parent is one of the most important jobs a person can have. We all need to support it in any way we can!

For more information or to contact an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant call the Health Unit at 519-352-7270 ext. 2903.