As defined by the USDA website, “The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) provides federal grants to states for supplemental foods, health care referrals, and nutrition education for low-income pregnant, breastfeeding, and non-breastfeeding postpartum women, and to infants and children up to age five who are found to be at nutritional risk.”
Because we have local resources available for those who are breastfeeding, we decided to interview Misty Wheeler, the White and Carroll Co. WIC Coordinator/ Breastfeeding Coordinator.
Read our interview with Misty to learn more about breastfeeding and community resources for breastfeeding!
Why would a mother choose to breastfeed?
It’s a healthier choice for both mom and baby, encourages and supports a close bonding experience, more convenient and costs LESS!
What are the cost savings of breastfeeding?
If you are a WIC participant, you will receive more food benefits for the mom each month. Also, since WIC is a supplemental program, most parents will have to buy extra formula for the month but with breastfeeding there is not that extra added cost.
WIC offers our breastfeeding moms FREE unlimited access to Lactation Consultants and have breast pumps available if needed.
Where can expectant mothers and/or current mothers get help or advice on breastfeeding?
We have two local breastfeeding peer counselors for White and Carroll County available to help our WIC moms and babies if needed with breastfeeding.
If not currently participating in WIC we give referrals for La Leche League, Kathryn Weil Center and/or IU Lactation Services as needed.
What would you tell mothers that are struggling with breastfeeding?
Breastfeeding is a learning experience for both mom and baby. All babies are different and it takes time to learn each other. We are here for support and will give referrals as needed.
How can family members and friends support a mother who is breastfeeding?
Family members and friends just need to support the mom and baby in their decision to breastfeed and offer them assistance wherever the mom is needing help, ie. household chores, taking care of other children, etc.
Are there any facts about breastfeeding that you’d like to share?
Any amount of breastfeeding is beneficial for mom and baby. The first milk, Colostrum, is full of antibodies for the baby and helps prepare baby’s system for healthy digestion. Even if you can’t or don’t breastfeed very long this gives baby an immunity boost.
It’s the perfect nutrition, FREE and Ready to Use!
What are some community resources you’d point new mothers to?
We always talk to mom about Nurse Family Partnership Program and the Healthy Families Program. Both programs are great for new moms, providing support and education.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about breastfeeding and/or services for expecting & new mothers?
The biggest factor to breastfeeding success is mom’s determination to make it work and to have her support group encouraging her along the way! Make sure you share with your support system that you do and will need encouragement along this journey through motherhood!
More breastfeeding questions or questions about you or your children’s healthcare?
Call (800) 321-5043 to make an appointment with one of our practitioners to talk about breastfeeding or get other questions answered that might you have. We offer primary care services for moms, dads, and children!
