"I love that I was able to bond alone with my baby for a few hours after she was born. I loved my experience and would recommend BetterBirth to every pregnant woman looking for a natural birth."
- The R Family
We encourage you to breastfeed!
There are many benefits to breastfeeding, for you as a mother, for your baby, and for the world. Breastfeeding:
Breastfed babies:
Your midwife will help you initiate breastfeeding very soon after the baby is born. Breastfeeding usually goes well, but sometimes it is a bit more challenging. Here are some resources you can use if breastfeeding is difficult for you or if you need specialized information, products, or support.
La Leche League
La Leche League is an international, nonprofit, nonsectarian organization dedicated to providing education, information, support, and encouragement to women who want to breastfeed. La Leche League offers phone help and monthly meetings. Meeting topics include: Advantages of Breastfeeding, Baby’s Arrival, Avoiding Difficulties, Nutrition and Weaning. At each meeting you will also find supportive mothers, pamphlets, and an extensive lending library. To find out about meetings in your local area, or for breastfeeding assistance, call LLL’s Utah Referral Line (801) 264-LOVE or visit La Leche League of Utah’s website.
Dr. Jack Newman
Jack Newman is an amazing physician who specializes in breastfeeding. His website is outstanding for any information you might need regarding nursing. There are videos to help you latch, and a myriad of other handouts on just about every possible issue.
BreastfeedingOnline.com
Another outstanding resource about breastfeeding.
Lactation Consultants
Are you really struggling? You need a lactation consultant! These amazing women will meet with you, help figure out what exactly is going on with your baby, and help you solve it. Don’t wait too long!
Julie Johnson, IBCLC
Salt Lake City, South Jordan, or Your Home
(801) 608-8947
Laura Bikman
Utah County
Laura is currently completing her requirements to become an IBCLC, and until she does, is providing help free.
(801) 231-1959
Breastfeeding Products and Supplies (including Pump Rental)
Lactation Station
3142 S. Highland Drive
Salt Lake City (Sugar House), UT 84106
(801) 467-3434
An Important Note
The vast majority of women can breastfeed. Sometimes it takes extra effort, sometimes special help, so don’t give up until you’ve really tried. Sometimes, however, breastfeeding doesn’t work. There are physical conditions that make breastfeeding impossible, and sometimes breastfeeding is so difficult that it begins to destroy your relationship with your baby in other ways. And there are some mothers who hate breastfeeding. If despite your efforts it’s not working for you, you will have to find an alternative. You must feed your baby, one way or another. Realizing what is not working and finding another way is good parenting, not a failure at motherhood. If you are struggling, please contact your midwife who has seen all this before and can help you find the very best solution for your situation.