Breastfeeding in the City of Hamilton

Breastmilk:

• is a truly unique food
• is perfectly suited to a growing baby
• gives your baby the best start on a lifetime of good health

The City of Hamilton Public Health Services offers you help and support to breastfeed as long as possible. The Canadian Pediatric Society and Health Canada recommend feeding baby nothing but breastmilk for the first six months. Solid foods can be started at six months and breastfeeding can continue for up to two years and more.

Breastfeeding may not always be easy. With patience and help, the majority of mothers can breastfeed successfully. Most challenges are resolved within the first 40 days. Everyone's experience is different. Learn as much as you can about infant feeding before the baby is born so you can make the best choice for you and your family. Information about prenatal classes.

Take a look at the menu on the right hand side of this page for links to helpful information and locations for breastfeeding support in the City of Hamilton.

Health Connections is your best link to services and supports in the City of Hamilton. There is a Lactation Consultant on call to answer breastfeeding questions Monday to Friday 8:30-4:30.
Call 905-546-3550 or contact us at

breastfeedingsupport@hamilton.ca

We will make every attempt to contact you within 48 hours, however, this site is not checked on weekends. If you live in the Hamilton area and you would prefer a phone response, please include your phone number.

About our Lactation Consultants ...

• Passionate about assisting breastfeeding families to meet their breastfeeding goals
• Eight employed and supported by City of Hamilton Public Health, Combined experience of 80 years!
• Certified by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners
• Certification is by extensive exam, recertified every 5 years
• Governed by a Code of Ethics
• For more information see What is a Lactation Consultant?
• Committed to continued education and learning in the field of breastfeeding support.
• Provide support to residents of the City of Hamilton through
• Limeridge Breastfeeding Clinic
• On call phone consultation
• Home visits (adults and teens)
• Parent education
• Prenatal classes
• Community presentations (OEYC's)
• Advocacy
• Collaboration with other Health Care professionals

Formula	Breastmilk

Reference: Mohrbacher, N. & Wambach, K. (2010). Breastfeeding and Human Lactation. Photo Library. Jones and Bartlett Publishers. Subury, MA