Breastfeeding
Resource Portal

Support is offered in a timely fashion, often in the form of a warm line or online chat. A person—or various people at different times—with training in breastfeeding can answer specific types of questions related to breastfeeding.

An expectant or new parent who wants to breastfeed is matched with a person who has breastfeeding experience and training, often called a breastfeeding buddy (or a “marraine” in Quebec). These peer support programs provide for individualized, ongoing, one-on-one contacts. Ideally, people apply for a breastfeeding buddy during their pregnancy, but being matched at any time is beneficial. A peer support person can help with most challenges that may arise during breastfeeding, from latching a new baby to weaning.

Experienced fathers help other fathers learn to support breastfeeding and develop a positive relationship with their breastfed child. The peer supporters can answer questions fathers may have during the breastfeeding period. (This definition was adapted from Nourri-Source Lanaudière).

Breastfeeding preparation programs include workshops, classes, and information sessions that provide opportunities for future parents who have decided to breastfeed or who are looking for more information to prepare for breastfeeding. Information sessions may offer theory and practical tips to help parents get breastfeeding off to a good start and deal with most challenges that may arise during breastfeeding. The workshops or meetings are also a great place for future parents to learn about local resources and services that provide breastfeeding support.

Prenatal group meetings enable expectant parents to meet other parents. A facilitator provides information, answers questions, and discusses concerns.

The main objective of postnatal sessions or new parents’ meetings is to support and encourage breastfeeding and to help parents develop breastfeeding skills. They enable parents to overcome their isolation, talk to other breastfeeding parents, and understand what is normal for babies. They are also a place to deal with doubts and worries. Some programs include invited speakers or discussions on particular topics. They may be called breastfeeding drop-ins, new mothers’ group, or parent support programs.

Lactation consultants provide an important service to parents dealing with persistent or complex breastfeeding issues. Parents can make an appointment with a certified lactation consultant (IBCLC) or another healthcare provider who specializes in breastfeeding who will do a comprehensive assessment and offer solutions to the problem. These professionals may work in a public setting or be in private practice (fee for service).

Breastfeeding clinics are health facilities that specialize in lactation care. The lactation consultant at the facility may work with a physician to treat any medical issues that arise.

A range of professionals and educators provide healthcare, complementary, or parenting services to breastfeeding parents. Examples are baby-wearing educators, osteopaths, chiropractors, dietitians, naturopaths, etc.

Basic education in breastfeeding and helping skills is offered by community breastfeeding resources to people who volunteer to help breastfeeding families. Contact the organization you are interested in to find out when recruitment and training take place and what the requirements are.

In certain circumstances, a hospital-grade electric double-breast pump may be necessary to maintain breastfeeding. Breast pumps may be rented or loaned, and a pumping kit must be purchased for personal use. Community breastfeeding organizations provide information about the proper use of the equipment as well as follow-up and additional support.

Community breastfeeding resources work with families to assess their need for special breastfeeding equipment and accessories and to provide support while they are using them. Examples of breastfeeding equipment and supplies that may be available are single-user breast-pumps and pump parts, nursing bras, pumping bustiers and wearable pumps, nursing pillows, nipple or breast shields, baby carriers, etc.