Why Should I Breastfeed?![]() Breastfeeding provides the ideal nutrition for an infant. The protein, fat, mineral, vitamin, and calorie content is superior to any store-bought synthetic formula. In addition, studies have shown that breast-fed babies have better brain development than those fed by formula, partly because of the superior nutrition from the breast milk.
Breastfeeding provides natural immunities. Babies who are breastfed have fewer illnesses and hospitalizations than those who are bottle-fed. Many diseases children come in contact with during the first six months of life can't be immunized against. However, breast milk has a natural quality that provides protection. Breastfeeding protects against common allergies. Many babies are allergic to common food products, such a cow's milk and soy, as well as environmental allergens. Breast milk is easier to digest than formula. Breastfed babies have less constipation, less diarrhea, and fewer irritations of the stomach. Breastfeeding provides health benefits for the mother. It promotes faster weight loss after birth, stimulates the uterus to contract and return to its normal size, reduces postpartum bleeding, and provides an environment in which there are less urinary tract infections and less chance of anemia.
Peer Counseling Program
Personal breastfeeding support is available at no cost through Crawford County Health Department's WIC-sponsored peer counselor program. If you are in need of breastfeeding support please contact our Breastfeeding Peer Counselor, Amy Howell at 618-562-6663 or ahowell@cchd.net.
CCHD Breastfeeding Support & Education on FacebookDedicated to providing reliable evidence based breastfeeding information, local events, giveaways, information on upcoming breastfeeding classes & much more!
Human Milk Saves Lives
|
Meet Our Breastfeeding Peer CounselorAmy Howell, CLS
Certified Lactation Specialist Breastfeeding Peer Counselor 24/7 Cell: 618-562-6663 email: ahowell@cchd.net Breastfeeding ClassesCrawford County Health Department offers FREE prenatal Breastfeeding classes several times a year. Currently classes are being offered virtually, class dates are tentatively set for:
February 8, 2022 May 17, 2022 August 9, 2022 November 8, 2022 To register please contact: Amy Howell 618-562-6663 ahowell@cchd.net |