Healthcare Providers

Breastfeeding - After Discharge

During visits:

• Encourage exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months and continued breastfeeding for at least one year.
• Observe breastfeeding for a good latch and swallowing sounds.
• Encourage positions that support a good latch, such as the "laid back" position where the mother leans back in chair.
• Explore barriers, work through solutions, and provide resources.
• Refer to lactation consultant and/or community resources such as WIC and breastfeeding support groups.

Discuss return-to-work plans:

• Breast pumps may be available through the patient's insurance including Medi-Cal. In select circumstances, WIC may be able to supply a pump.
• The Lactation Accommodation Law protects breastfeeding mothers returning to work and is enforced by the Labor Commission. Employers are required to provide break time and a clean, private location, other than a toilet stall, to pump. Additional time beyond usual breaks may be unpaid.
  

Resources

1. A Clinician's Guide: Suggested Questions to Assess Breastfeeding in Primary Care Practice. American Academy of Pediatrics.
2. California Lactation Accommodation law. AB-1025 Labor Code, Chapter 3.8, [1030–1033] 2001.
3. Breast and Nipple Candidiasis (PDF)
4. Breast Milk Supply and Infant Growth (PDF)