Breastfeeding Services

The Barrie & Community Family Health Team (BCFHT) recognizes the importance of breastfeeding in relation to health promotion and chronic disease and illness prevention. Furthermore, it recognizes that breastfeeding is one of the most effective ways to ensure the health and survival of children worldwide (World Health Organization). Breastfeeding is an unequalled way of providing ideal nutrition for the healthy growth and development of infants, and it is an integral part of the reproductive process, with important implications for both the mother as well as the infant (WHO, 2003).

Breastfeeding benefits – A substantial amount of research has led to the recognition that early nutrition has an enormous impact on the long-term health status of an individual (Infact Canada, 2003). Expert Consultation commissioned by the World Health Organization has determined the miraculous benefits of breastfeeding, for both mother and child, some of which are listed below:

For the Mother:

• Helps prevent post-partum hemorrhage
• Decreases a mother’s risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer and endometrial cancer (long-term)
• Decreases chances of osteoporosis (long-term)
• Promotes bonding & attachment between mother and baby
• Convenient for most mothers-no washing, sterilizing, or preparation required (Infact Canada, 2003)

Who We Are

Breastfeeding services at the BCFHT are available to all childbearing families in our community. The BCFHT Breastfeeding Services began in October 2010 in response to a community need for additional breastfeeding services to support childbearing families in our community. Breastfeeding support is provided by an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), who is also a Registered Nurse. A Lactation Consultant is a knowledgeable and experienced member of the health care team who has specialized skills in breastfeeding management and care. Lactation Consultants have passed a rigorous examination that demonstrates the ability to provide competent, comprehensive lactation and breastfeeding care, as well as act as an advocate for breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding Services Overview

The BCFHT will strive to promote, protect and support breastfeeding in our community in the following ways:

• Offer Breastfeeding support (1:1 Appointments) to ALL childbearing families in our community.
• Collaboration of our Lactation Consultant with other BCFHT Team Members, including BCFHT Family Practice Office Staff, as needed.
• Group Classes pertaining to breastfeeding will be offered in the near future to promote and support successful breastfeeding with childbearing families.
• Link with Community Partners, as appropriate, around breastfeeding issues.

Appointment Information

The Breastfeeding service provided by the Lactation Consultant will assist you to reach your breastfeeding goals. You will be assisted to begin or continue to breastfeed your baby as long as you wish.

Please call 705 721-0370 x4 to book an appointment. Individual breastfeeding appointments with a Lactation Consultant are available Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8:00 am-4:00 pm at the Prenatal Well Baby Clinic, located at 370 Bayview Drive, 3rd Floor. Some things that may be reviewed during a 1:1 appointment with the Lactation Consultant:

• Assisting you with positioning and latching your baby
• Helping you understand when your baby is breastfeeding well
• Teaching you what ensures your milk supply or what will threaten it
• Problem solving breastfeeding issues

Breastfeeding mothers are encouraged to book an appointment early, especially if experiencing a problem.

Breast Pump Rentals are available at:

Procare Pharmacy  |  125 Bell Farm Road, Barrie  |  705 722-7474

Shoppers Home Health Care  |  524 Bayfield Street N, Barrie  |  705 722-6336

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