Supporting Breastfeeding Mothers

Support that helps mothers breastfeed longer:

• The support of the baby's father can really make a difference.  With dad's support, a mother is much more likely to continue breastfeeding.  There are a number of ways fathers can help during this time.  Download our "Dear Dad" letter in English or Spanish to find out more!
• The support of family and friends also helps the breastfeeding mother.
• A mother is more likely to continue breastfeeding if she has a role model in her life who also breastfed their child.
• It is important for mothers to have help from their medical provider, a lactation consultant, a peer counselor or a nutritionist in the early weeks.
• For mothers returning to work, a supportive workplace and a supportive child care provider are both important.