Breastfeeding and Chestfeeding Support

CinnaMoms Support Circles

CinnaMoms vision is to create a cultural space that promotes empowerment and self – transformation for Black/African American women through the PHFE WIC program. We host virtual support circles that provide ways to advocate for breastfeeding/chestfeeding, parenting, and health for the entire life course.

CinnaMoms support circles are currently being held virtually and our CinnaMoms Project Specialist help navigate the WIC process.

You can follow our social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Tiktok 

Breastfeeding Support Groups on Zoom

Join a monthly breastfeeding support group on Zoom to connect and learn with other parents throughout your breastfeeding journey! Support groups are available in 6 different languages.

Infant Feeding Helpline

Certified Lactation Educators and Lactation Consultants (breastfeeding specialists) answer your infant feeding questions Monday – Friday from 9:00 am – 5:30 pm Pacific time at (888) 278-6455.

Free Lactation Consultations

Many WIC Centers offer a free weekly breastfeeding help clinic for WIC participants. At these clinics, Lactation Consultants (or breastfeeding specialists) make sure your baby is latching on well and gaining weight. Call (888) 278-6455 to schedule an appointment at a WIC breastfeeding clinic.

Group Classes for Pregnant Parents

It’s never too early to start thinking about how you plan to feed your baby. Pregnant parents are invited to join a group class on Zoom at any time during their pregnancy. Class topics include the differences between breast milk and formula and tips for feeding your newborn.

Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Program

If you are currently pregnant and would like extra support with breastfeeding, a woman who has successfully breastfed her baby may be able to partner with you. Ask to join the Breastfeeding Peer Counselor program at your WIC center. Your specially trained Breastfeeding Peer Counselor will be part of your support system until your baby is six months old.

Why Breastfeed?

A mother’s milk is the best food for babies. It has a perfect mix of protein, fat, water, vitamins, and is easy to digest. Antibodies, or special proteins, in breast milk boost your baby’s immune system, helping them fight off infections. Breastfeeding lowers your baby’s risk of asthma, allergies, and obesity while moms save money, lose their pregnancy weight faster, and have a reduced risk of breast cancer.

How to Breastfeed

How often do babies need to eat? What is the best breastfeeding position for you and your baby? How do you know that your baby is eating enough? How long should you breastfeed?

Browse these videos to learn about breastfeeding in the comfort of your home:

Select a videoTherapeutic Breast MassageThe Basics of Breast Massage and Hand Expression

The WIC breastfeeding guide is full of breastfeeding tips to get you off to a great start nursing your baby.

The Hospital Experience

What should you do in the hospital to get off to a good start with breastfeeding?

Is My Baby Getting Enough?

Often a new parent’s biggest concern is about how much and how often the baby breastfeeds. It’s nearly impossible to measure the milk, because it can’t be seen. However, there are signs that inform you that your baby is well fed. Here are some guidelines to help you know if your baby is getting enough.

Sore Nipples and Breastfeeding

Tender and sensitive nipples are normal as you begin breastfeeding your new baby. However, very
sore, cracked, or bleeding nipples are not. Usually this problem is related to the way your baby
latches on to the breast. It is important that your baby gets a big “mouthful” of the nipple and areola.

How Do I Keep Up A Good Milk Supply?

Breastfeed your baby — it is the best way to make more milk. The more often you breastfeed, the more milk you will make. Breastfeed often when you and your baby are together. Learn more.

Breastfeeding & Returning to Work or School

Many nursing mothers balance a work or school schedule while breastfeeding. You can too! Learn about pumping, storing your milk, setting up a support system, and laws that protect your right to pump at work or school.

Breast Pumps

Are you going back to work, or do you need to pump your breast milk while you are away from your baby? WIC can provide you with a free manual and electric breast pumps to help you reach your breastfeeding goals. Nursing mothers should talk to their WIC center staff or call (888) 278-6455 to learn more.

How to Keep Your Breast Pump Kit Clean: Science Behind the Recommendations

Providing breast milk is one of the best things you can do for your baby’s health and development. Pumping your milk is one way to provide breast milk to your baby. However, germs can grow quickly in breast milk or breast milk residue that remains on pump parts. Providing breast milk is one of the best things you can do for your baby’s health and development. Pumping your milk is one way to provide breast milk to your baby. However, germs can grow quickly in breast milk or breast milk residue that remains on pump parts

Breastmilk Storage Guidelines

Learn more about breast milk storage and preparation.

La Leche League

La Leche League is a national organization that hosts events and meetings to connect breastfeeding mothers.

Human Milk Banks

Human milk banks collect and process donated breast milk from parents who have more than what their baby needs. The milk is given to babies who cannot get enough milk from their parent primarily due to being premature or sick. Learn more about human milk banks and find one near you:

BrowseSan Jose Milk BankUniversity of California Health Milk BankSan Gabriel Valley Breastmilk Collection CenterBreastfeed LA

Breastfeeding Resources for Professionals

For more breastfeeding information and resources, please contact us today.