Whether you've just had your first child, or you have a whole brood, breastfeeding feels like a new experience every time.
Breastfeeding during postpartum can be particularly challenging for many first-time parents. Depending on where you live and your healthcare, you may not have received much support or information on breastfeeding which can be a challenge of its own.
Because of this, it's common for first-time parents to need extra support with breastfeeding, whether it's workplace resources or breast pump financial assistance.
You Deserve Breastfeeding Support
While breastfeeding is a beautiful, nourishing way to feed your baby, it can also be stressful and difficult. So, finding the right resources for support can make all the difference in the experience.
If you're looking for assistance, you've come to the right place. The following guide will provide breastfeeding support and resources.
Find A Lactation Consultant
Not everyone knows there are certified experts who are dedicated to assisting with breastfeeding. While your nurse, midwife, or OB can offer help, a lactation consultant specializes in breastfeeding.
You can find an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) individual in your area. With the care of an IBCLC, you can better learn how to get your baby to latch or what to do if you have an issue like mastitis.
An IBCLC is there to address any concerns or support needs a new breastfeeding parent may have. An IBCLC can guide your breastfeeding journey and help with any unanticipated obstacles.
See What Your Insurance Covers
One significant resource you can utilize while breastfeeding is your insurance company and health benefits. While insurance plans vary greatly, it's vital to reach out to your insurance provider to see what they cover for maternity support.
You may be able to get a breast pump through insurance with four easy steps, which is extra helpful if you are a working parent. Even if you will be home, a breast pump can make caring for your newborn easier and provide you with more freedom.
By getting a breast pump with your insurance, you'll also save money.
Some insurance plans also cover additional resources for breastfeeding while postpartum. For example, ask them about insurance-covered lactation consultants. These trained professionals can be life-changing for breastfeeding parents.
Ask Your Employer For Accommodations
One of the biggest barriers many breastfeeding parents face is balancing parenthood and professional career. You may have questions about how to breastfeed when you go back to work. While a breast pump can make the process easier, it's not the only solution; it's just one component of breastfeeding resources you have a right as per the Affordable Care Act mandate.
Your employer may provide other accommodation or support. You can ask for breaks to breastfeed your child or see about a private area to pump. Your job should provide reasonable accommodation for you as a postpartum parent.
You can learn more about employer solutions for breastfeeding in this guide.
Seek Support From Peers
Another vital way to find support as a breastfeeding parent is through the community. Connecting with other new parents, whether they breastfeed, pump, bottle feed, etc., is crucial. You'll be able to bond over shared experiences and learn new things as a parent.
Of course, you shouldn't take the advice of every friend or family member as a medical fact.
Still, you can learn a lot from other parents in your circle. If nothing else, getting peer support is a great way to meet your emotional needs, which can sometimes fall by the wayside when you have a new baby.
Concluding Thoughts On Resources For Breastfeeding Parents
While these aren't the only resources that are available for breastfeeding parents, we hope you can find valuable resources and support by using this article and meeting with a lactation consultant via telehealth or in-person as a starting point. Remember to seek help from loved ones, medical professionals, and other support persons when you need it.
