Breastfeeding Information and Support

Questions and Answers

What is meant by targeted breastfeeding support services?

Selected WIC staff members are trained in lactation counseling and, in most programs, peer-counseling services are offered to pregnant women and new mothers. Peer counselors are mothers who have breastfed at least one infant and received special training from WIC in how to provide breastfeeding support. Women are introduced to their peer counselor during pregnancy so that a relationship is established and breastfeeding education can occur before the baby is born. The literature shows that peer counseling is one of the most successful interventions for increasing breastfeeding among low-income women. Other support services include the availability of breast pumps to mothers who are returning to work or have other special needs. The www.breastfeedingpartners.org website has been developed specifically to answer mothers' questions and provide additional training to peer counselors.

What about women/infants who are partially breastfeeding?

A "partial breastfeeding" option is available. If appropriate, mothers may be provided with one can of powdered formula for the first month of breastfeeding. The literature has shown that exclusive breastfeeding for the first month is crucial for establishing an adequate milk supply and that supplementation with formula during that period could undermine breastfeeding's success. The food package is adjusted according to the amount of formula the infant receives.

Promises: WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselors

Pride: Pumping and Storing Breast Milk

Breastfeed: Give the Gift of a Lifetime to Your Baby

WIC Breastfeeding Partners