Breastfeeding Support
A healthy start for you and your baby.
Linn County is an active participant in the Linn Benton Lincoln Breastfeeding Coalition, because we understand the benefits of breastfeeding. That said, we know it isn’t always easy! Breastfeeding takes practice and patience to learn. Especially at first, it’s important to have someone who can answer your questions, teach your baby to attach correctly, and help you through the adjustment.
Get Help with Breastfeeding
An experienced member of our staff is available by appointment to guide you through breastfeeding, from day one through weaning. We can answer your questions, work with you to solve problems, and weigh your baby to assess their growth. Please contact us to get started.
Leah Brunson, B.S, IBCLC
Linn County Health Services
leahbrunson@linncountyhealth.org
Cell Phone 541-801-1407
Desk phone 541-967-3888 ext 2619
Breastfeeding has many health benefits
People who breastfeed their babies have:
- Reduced risk of anemia
- Increased bone density after weaning which may decrease her risk of postmenopausal osteoporosis
- Uterine contractions which will decrease the risk of postpartum hemorrhage
- Lower rate of postmenopausal breast cancer
- Lower rate of ovarian cancer
- Lower rate of uterine cancer More optimal child-spacing interval
- Quicker recovery from childbirth
- Reduced stress
Babies who are breastfed have a lower chance of experiencing:
- Ear infections
- Respiratory infections
- Intestinal infections
- Sudden infant death syndrome
- Juvenile diabetes mellitus
- Childhood cancers
- Eczema
- Tooth decay
- Obesity
- Hospitalization
Your Breast Milk:
Is Safe.
Breastmilk contains protective factors that help prevent and fight infections, such as diarrhea and pneumonia. It also helps reduce the risk of allergic conditions, particularly asthma. Your breastmilk is the safest food for your baby.
Is Nutritious.
The nutrients in breastmilk are present in the right quantity and the right quality for your baby, shifting over time to meet your baby’s changing needs.
Is Sustainable.
As long as you and your baby are together, food is available for your baby! You can make good milk from whatever foods you eat.
Tips for Getting Started
- Start breastfeeding as soon as you can after your baby’s delivery. This will stimulate your milk production and help your baby learn what to do.
- Let your baby breastfeed often, whenever they’re hungry, day or night, for as long as they need to. Don’t worry, they will stop feeding when they’re full. Frequent feedings will help your baby grow and keep your milk supply strong.
- Learn the signs of your baby’s hunger. Crying is a late sign, and some babies will just go to sleep if they’re not fed.
- There’s no need to offer your baby additional fluid after they finish breastfeeding, even if they’re willing to accept it. In fact, offering water may be counterproductive. Your breastmilk provides everything your baby needs all by itself.
Build your support network
Be sure to discover which friends, family members, and health care providers will support your desire to breastfeed, and surround yourself by those who can help and encourage you.
When selecting a health care provider, ask about their practices related to breastfeeding. This will help you determine their knowledge about breastfeeding and the level of support you will receive. You will benefit from the support of a knowledgeable obstetrician, pediatrician, family practitioner, midwife, physician office staff, neonatal nurse, nurse practitioner, nutritionist, childbirth instructor, and home visiting nurse. All of these health professionals should be knowledgeable and supportive about breastfeeding.
Other Local Resources
Our team here at Linn County Health Services is ready to help you, but we’re not the only option for breastfeeding support. Other providers are available, too!
Albany
Mid-Valley Children’s Clinic
541-812-5111
Albany General Hospital
541-812-4000
Lebanon
Lebanon Community Hospital
541-451-7588
Corvallis
Good Samaritan Hospital Home Health
541-768-5254