Benefits of breastfeeding for baby:

• Increased bonding time with mom

• Healthier babies which reduce healthcare costs
• Higher IQ and increased brain development
• Lower risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome), diabetes, and obesity and some types of cancer
• Breast Milk is all the nutrition a baby needs in the first 6 months of life, reducing financial needs of the family

Benefits of Breastfeeding for mothers:

• Increased bonding time with baby

• Promotes weight loss- breastfeeding women burn up to 500 extra calories a day
• Decreased chances of postpartum depression
• Lowers risk for some types of cancer
• Faster post postpartum recovery time
• Working moms miss less days of work because their infants may be sick less often
• For more information on the benefits of breastfeeding click below.
• https://www.dhs.state.il.us/OneNetLibrary/27897/documents/Brochures/4171.pdf

Breast Milk Pumping Support & Resources

Pumping breast milk can be a helpful option for many mothers, whether you are returning to work, sharing feedings, or building a milk supply.

Did you know….

Under federal law, most health insurance plans are required to provide a breast pump for breastfeeding mothers covered by their plans.

To help you prepare for your breastfeeding journey, contact the customer service number on your insurance card during your third trimester to learn about your breast pump benefits and ensure your pump is available before delivery.

Click on the link below for more information on breastmilk pumping and breast milk storage.

https://www.cdc.gov/infant-toddler-nutrition/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/infantandtoddlernutrition/breastfeeding/pumping-breast-milk.html

If you are covered under Illinois Medicaid or a private insurance plan, you may be eligible to pick up a new breastmilk pump from our office.  Call the Jefferson County Health Department at 618-244-7134 for eligibility requirements.

Breastfeeding Support & Education

The Jefferson County Health Department offers:

• Breastfeeding education
• One-on-one consultations
• Breastfeeding Peer Counselor services
• Access to an IBCLC (International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant)

For support or to schedule services, call 618-244-7134.