Choosing how to feed your baby is a very important decision. You need quality information from reliable sources. Best Start Resource Centre is a good source of information:
- The Breastfeeding Matters Booklet provides important information about breastfeeding your baby.
- Infant Formula: What You Need to Know provides information if you have made an informed decision to feed your baby infant formula.
It is important to surround yourself with good support while you are learning. Ask for support from friends and family and reach out to community resources. Give yourself lots of time and patience. Contact us if you have questions or concerns. We can give you information and resources to support infant feeding at different ages and stages.
When to seek breastfeeding help
Best Start Resource Centre provides signs that feeding is going well. Contact us for help if you think something doesn’t seem right. Watch for these signs that you may need further breastfeeding help:
- Your baby is feeding less than 8 times in 24 hours
- Your baby has black stools after day 4
- Your baby has fewer than 3 stools and 6 wet diapers in 24 hours after day 4
- Your baby is unusually sleepy, fussy or restless
- Your nipples hurt
- Your breasts feel hard and painful
- You feel like you have the flu
Breastfeeding resources in your community
You can get breastfeeding support from any of the resources listed below, or from your health care provider. You can also get support from other families that are pregnant or breastfeeding. Connect with other families at our breastfeeding classes, EarlyON Child and Family Centres, or La Leche League Groups.
Public Health Nurse at Southwestern Public Health
We offer telephone and in-person support at both of our sites. Please call, or fill out our online breastfeeding referral form and a Public Health Nurse will contact you as soon as possible during our business hours.
Clinics and classes at Southwestern Public Health
Telehealth Ontario
Access 24/7 breastfeeding support in over 100 languages over the phone:
- 1-866-797-0000
- 1-866-797-0007 (TTY)
La Leche League Peer Support Groups
Connect with local peer leaders and other breastfeeding families in the LLLC St. Thomas-Elgin Group or the LLLC Woodstock Group.
West Elgin Community Health Centre (WECHC)
WECHC provides free breastfeeding support for residents of West Elgin and Dutton Dunwich municipalities:
153 Main Street, West Lorne
519-768-1715