Your guide to breastfeeding

Help, encouragement and advice for moms hoping to breastfeed

Want to breastfeed your baby? It's a good idea to try it if you can, because breast milk has all the nutrition a baby needs during the first six months. That's pretty amazing! 

Let’s go over some of the basics of breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding is good for babies

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies be given exclusively breast milk for their first six months of life — or even longer. Here's why:

• Breast milk has all of the calories, protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals a baby needs.
• Breast milk has certain proteins that help protect babies from common infections, food allergies, vomiting and diarrhea.
• It may help protect against sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
• Breast milk is easier for babies to digest than formula.
• It may help with brain development and learning.
• It helps protect babies from chronic problems like diabetes, asthma and obesity.

It's good for mothers, too

Breastfeeding is good for you, too — and not just because it's a great way to bond with your baby. Here's why:

• Breastfeeding can help your uterus return to its normal size more quickly after delivery.
• It may reduce your risk of ovarian and breast cancer.
• It can lower your risk for osteoporosis, a disease that weakens your bones.
• Producing milk burns calories and helps you return faster to your pre-baby weight.
• It's easier to prepare than formula and is always at the correct temperature.

Getting started

Breastfeeding can take time and patience. Don't give up if your baby doesn't easily latch on the first day — or even the first week. Remember, many first-time moms have the same questions and concerns that you do. Here are some resources that can help.

• Talk to a lactation consultant or breastfeeding counselor for practical help and tips to get started. Or find a chapter of La Leche League, a group led by moms who offer support and encouragement to women looking to breastfeed. The Florida Breastfeeding Coalition can help with both.
• Talk to a postpartum doula. A doula is a professional assistant, but not a medical professional. Postpartum doulas may have additional ideas to help you become more comfortable or more confident in the process. And sometimes that's all you need. For information on obtaining doula services, read the Sunshine Health Medicaid Member Handbook (PDF) or call Member Services at 1-866-796-0530, or TTY at 1-800-955-8770, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. other than holidays.
• Talk to friends or family members. You don't necessarily need a professional to help your baby get the hang of breastfeeding. Other moms may have additional ideas or offer the support you need.

Pumping and storing milk

You'll want to buy or rent a breast pump if a partner or loved one is going to help at feeding time. You’ll also want a breast pump if you're planning to go back to work soon. Breast pumps are covered under your Sunshine Health Medicaid plan. Hand-operated pumps are available through your over-the-counter benefit – call 1-866-577-9010 for more information. In some cases, you can rent or buy an electric breast pump. For more information on obtaining a breast pump, call Member Services at 1-866-796-0530, or TTY at 1-800-955-8770, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. other than holidays.

You'll also need breast milk storage bags, bottles and nipples, in addition to cleaning supplies. Breast milk can be stored at room temperature for 10 hours, in the refrigerator for up to eight days, and in a freezer for three months.

When things get tough

Even though the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all mothers breastfeed for at least six months, that's not always possible. Talk to your doctor if you're having a lot of pain or feel like your baby isn't getting enough to eat. And remember, while there are plenty of benefits to breastfeeding, if you need to supplement or switch to formula, your baby will still grow and thrive.