Parents report that the support and encouragement they receive from their providers is among the most important intervention in helping them continue to breastfeed. In the 831 area, breastfeeding initiation rates in the hospital average over 95%, but by discharge only 69% of mothers in Monterey County are breastfeeding exclusively, 82% in San Benito, and 87% in Santa Cruz. To be successful in initiating and sustaining exclusive breastfeeding, parents need timely, culturally competent breastfeeding support from every who touches their life, including, and especially health care providers. This support must begin with anticipatory guidance and assessment during pregnancy and continue through birth and beyond as families navigate the challenges to breastfeeding out in the community, including the worksite/school.
9 Steps to Breastfeeding Friendly: Guidelines for Community Health Centers and Outpatient Care Settings – CDPH/California WIC Association/California Breastfeeding Coalition
Breastfeeding Friendly Physician’s Office – ABM Protocol #14
The Breastfeeding Friendly Pediatric Office Practice - AAP
Breastfeeding Resources for Health Care Providers – CDPH-WIC
Breastfeeding Codes – AAFP
California In-Hospital Breastfeeding Initiation Data (2020) – CDPH
Ramping Up for Reform: Quality Breastfeeding Support in Preventive Care – California WIC Association
CDC Breastfeeding Report Card (2022) – CDC
Central California Alliance for Health Breastfeeding Support and Breast Pump Benefit