Breastfeeding Resources in York Region
When you are the mother of a newborn baby, ensuring that your baby is being properly fed is a top priority. A lot of people tell you that breastfeeding is one of the most natural things a woman can do. And, it can be. However, it can also be very challenging in the beginning. If you have a sleepy newborn, one that is not interested in feeding, you are exhausted, had a tough delivery or are just overwhelmed by everything, latching you baby can be difficult when you are a new mom.
It is normal to feel awkward and clumsy; so don’t be discouraged! The good news is that there are resources available in our area to help. It is important for you to know if breastfeeding is going well and where to go for help if you have concerns.
If you need assistance the following resources are available in our area:
Health Connections (run by York Regional Public Health)
1-800-361-5653 (MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:30am-4:30pm)
Breastfeeding Markham-Stouffville Hospital - Breastfeeding Clinic
(905) 472-7374
Breastfeeding Clinic at Southlake Regional Health Centre in Newmarket
905-895-4521 ext2665
York Central - Inpatient Breastfeeding Clinic
Note: Prenatal Breastfeeding classes are also available at: York Central and Markham Stouffville Hospitals.
What to expect when you go to a Breastfeeding Clinic:
You will need to pre-book your appointment before going. The breastfeeding clinics are staffed by Lactation Consultants who will review any issues you are having. In a private setting, they will ask you to latch your baby. They will then work with you to establish and maintain a proper latch with your infant as well as review the various breastfeeding positions you can use.
There are also some great breastfeeding resources available on the web that explain typical breastfeeding issues, review latching techniques, positions and offer general support including:
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La Leche League Canada Meetings - Newmarket Group
All women interested in breastfeeding are welcome to attend monthly Group meetings. Anytime is a good time to come to a La Leche League meeting: when pregnant, with a new baby or when considering weaning.
Monthly Meeting Information: Newmarket Group
Meeting Day: 2nd Thursday of the month Meeting Location: Ontario Early Years Centre, Aurora Start time: 7:30 pm Approximate Duration: 1.5 hours
While a series of four meetings with the following topics is rotated throughout the year, the specific content varies significantly depending on the current focus and the needs of those present.
Meeting 1: The Advantages of Breastfeeding to Mother and Baby
Meeting 2: Baby Arrives: The Family and the Breastfed Baby
Meeting 3: The Art of Breastfeeding and Avoiding Difficulties
Meeting 4: Nutrition and Weaning
According to York Health Connections, breastfeeding is going well if:
You are not experiencing nipple pain during or after feeding.
Your baby’s mouth covers lots of the dark area around the nipple.
Your nipple is not pinched, white, or ridged when it comes out of your baby’s mouth.
Your baby feeds whenever he shows feeding cues (8 – 12 times in 24 hours).
Baby clusters some feeds together, but appears satisfied after feeds.
Feeds more during growth spurts.
Baby is alert and active.
Once your milk increases on the third day, you can hear the baby swallowing every time he/she sucks the breast. It sounds like “caa”
Your baby starts with short, quick sucks to stimulate the milk letdown reflex and then changes to slow, deep sucks when your milk lets down.
Your baby gains 4 – 7 ounces per week and is back to birth weight by 2 to 3 weeks of age.
Your baby experiences the following:
Day 1: 1 wet diaper, and 1 black stool
Day 2: 2 wet diapers, 1-2 brown stools
Day 3: 3 wet diapers, 2-3 lighter stools
Day 4: 4 heavy wet diapers, at least 2-3 yellow stools
Day 5: 5 heavy wet diapers, at least 2-3 yellow stools
Day 6: 6 heavy wet diapers, at least 2-3 yellow stools
which may be runny and seedy
Note: The assistance that you receive on this website is not meant as a substitute for professional guidance from your local health care professional. Please seek help from your local health care professional if you are experiencing problems with breastfeeding or if you have continuing concerns.
