Breastfeeding Support and Guidance
While breastfeeding is considered a natural process, it often requires practice and learning, particularly for mothers who breastfeed for the first time. Immediately after childbirth, most babies instinctively find their way to the breast, latch on, and begin sucking. However, you may still benefit from guidance and assistance to breastfeed effectively and painlessly right after labor. Although the beginning may be difficult, it does not imply that breastfeeding will be impossible. Seeking guidance and assistance from a professional consultant as soon as you encounter challenges, being patient, and practicing consistently will surely help you overcome breastfeeding difficulties.
You should know
You should know
Breastfeeding should not be a painful experience. If you feel any pain while breastfeeding, do not hesitate to seek assistance and guidance. Early intervention can often resolve the problem and help you establish a comfortable and enjoyable breastfeeding experience that is convenient and pleasant while also helping to prevent breastfeeding challenges and complications down the road.
When to refer to a lactation consultant
It is great to think ahead and get ready for breastfeeding before you have given birth. There are a variety of breastfeeding consultants and courses. If you have given birth and you encounter difficulties or cope with one of the following challenges, seeking guidance is highly recommended:
- If you experience pain while breastfeeding or you have cracked or sore nipples.
- If it is difficult for your baby to attach to the breast.
- If you cannot find a comfortable breastfeeding position.
- If you experience breast congestion or pressure.
- If you are concerned that your milk is insufficient or that your baby does not gain weight.
- If you struggle with breast pumping.
More information on breastfeeding challenges and the available coping strategies
Where to seek breastfeeding assistance
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Before giving birth
If you are pregnant, you can benefit from childbirth preparation courses and seek help from lactation consultants, as well as breastfeeding guidance and preparation at Tipat Halav (Family Health Centers). Mothers who receive guidance before giving birth are better equipped to manage breastfeeding and the challenges it brings.
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Immediately after giving birth
While still in the delivery room, as soon as your baby is born, the baby will be placed on your chest for skin-to-skin contact. It is recommended to do so for a full, uninterrupted hour at least. At this stage, you can try to breastfeed, and, if necessary, seek assistance from the delivery room staff to get to know the breastfeeding process.
Initial lactation consultation in the maternity ward
Upon transfer to the maternity ward, you will receive help and support from the nurses regarding infant feeding and care for both you and your baby. Every mother is entitled to the consultation of a certified lactation consultant once a day during her hospitalization after giving birth. If a lactation consultant is unavailable, request to receive consultation as soon as possible.
Lactation guidance after discharge from the maternity ward
It is time to leave the maternity ward. Do you sense that you currently require support and guidance with breastfeeding? The lactation consultants are available to assist you in the following ways:
- At every Tipat Halav (Family Health Center) clinic, there are nurses who serve as lactation consultants. They will be delighted to provide support and guidance and ensure a more effective and comfortable breastfeeding experience for you.
- By calling the Ministry of Health (Kol Habriut) hotline at *5400 extension 9, you can receive support from lactation consultants who are available to answer your questions in the afternoons, evenings, and on Fridays.
- The HMOs offer lactation consultation services. Some HMOs require a copayment for lactation consultations as part of their pregnancy basket services.
- La Lech League is a lactation support organization that helps with the establishment and maintenance of breastfeeding. The organization also helps mothers overcome challenges that may arise during breastfeeding. The organization’s hotline is 1599-525-821.
- You can also consider hiring a paid private lactation consultant from the attached pool of consultants. It is essential to ensure that the consultant is a certified lactation consultant.
Certified lactation consultants list (HE)
Selecting a lactation consultant
The lactation consultant's roles include actively listening to your concerns and experiences, assessing your challenges, and helping you set achievable breastfeeding goals. During the assessment and consultation, the lactation consultant may observe you breastfeed, conduct a breast exam, and offer guidance on effective breastfeeding techniques. Virtual lactation consultation is also available, and some consultants offer follow-up support via phone after the first meeting as part of their service.
- In your initial conversation with the lactation consultant, ensure a sense of comfort and compatibility. The quality of communication, the atmosphere and the chemistry between you should be positive. This will contribute to a more effective and personalized experience for you.
- Before your initial meeting, it is recommended to discuss the consultant's availability to address any questions that may arise over time.
- Obtain recommendations and advice from friends and other mothers regarding lactation consultation.
- It is recommended to schedule the consultation meeting as close as possible to the return home after delivery and to the breastfeeding time.