The Canadian Paediatric Society recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life. At about six months, your baby will be ready for other foods, but you can continue breastfeeding as long as it is comfortable for you and your baby, even well into the toddler years.
We acknowledge that individuals of all sex and gender identities/expressions may be in a feeding relationship with their baby. The term “breastfeeding” refers to feeding directly from the breast. Some individuals may use the term “chestfeeding” rather than “breastfeeding”, or use “chest milk” rather than “breastmilk. The Health Unit recognizes that language is constantly evolving, and we strive to use gender-affirming language when talking about infant feeding and parenting.
Breastfeeding Clinics and Telephone Support |
To speak to a public health nurse or to make an appointment at a breastfeeding clinic near you, please contact:
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Breastfeeding Online Support |
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Baby Friendly Initiative |
With support from community partners, we achieved Baby-Friendly Initiative (“BFI”) status in 2011 and 2016.
The initiative is a global effort to implement practices that protect, promote and support breastfeeding. If you’re a business owner or employee who would like to create a supportive feeding environment for families please call the Family Health Information Line at 705-474-1400 ext 5351. This could include staff education or drafting a breastfeeding policy for staff returning to work following their parental leave. More general information on becoming baby-friendly
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Breastfeeding and COVID-19 |
Breastfeeding is recommended, when possible, as it has many health benefits and offers the most protection against infection and illness throughout infancy and childhood. The virus that causes COVID-19 has not been found in breast milk. Breastfeeding can provide important food security for your baby (Canada.ca). If you have, or may have COVID-19, here are some tips to keep your baby safe (Best Start 2020):
Some extra tips (Best Start 2020):
For additional information:Provincial Council for Maternal and Child Health For support with breastfeeding, call your health care provider or speak with with a Public Health Nurse on the Family Health Information Line at 705-474-1400 ext. 5351 or via email at healthy.families@healthunit.ca. |