The benefits of breastfeeding are known, both for the physical and psychological health of the child and the mother. Public health authorities (Health Canada, the World Health Organization, Unicef, the Canadian Pediatric Society, Dietitians of Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada) recommend exclusive breastfeeding until birth. six months of age, ideally maintained to two years of age and beyond [i] . However, breastfeeding is not always natural. Breastfeeding mentors and a priori training can sometimes save breastfeeding.
Did you know that the Nourri-Lait group in Naissance-Renaissance Outaouais offers services to prepare and support you in your breastfeeding? "Being well prepared, equipped and well supported is the key to successful breastfeeding," explains Sophie Richard, certified lactation consultant. We offer a breastfeeding preparation course, a breastfeeding mentoring service with a volunteer, community breastfeeding clinics (replaced by individual 45-minute appointments at our premises during the pandemic), punctual by telephone and the sale and rental of breast pumps with appropriate advice. »
Two training sessions are offered each year to become a breastfeeding godmother. Caroline Murray-Daignault is one of those who will begin her training as a breastfeeding mentor in a few days: "I breastfed my two children and even if it wasn't always easy, I persevered and I am extremely proud to have had this privileged moment with my children, in addition to offering them the best of myself. I want to give back to the women around me by becoming a breastfeeding godmother because I know how important it is to be well surrounded for successful breastfeeding. »
The story of Nourri-Lait…
At the very beginning, Nourri-lait had 10 breastfeeding godmothers. Today, the organization has about 100. Last year, more than 200 matches were made between breastfeeding sponsors and mothers. The godmother is a volunteer who wants to help other mothers because she believes that breastfeeding a child should be a satisfying experience. She must have breastfed a baby for at least six months and complete an 18-hour basic training course given by the organization. Community breastfeeding clinics are generally offered, five days a week, but are currently being replaced due to the pandemic, by individual appointments with a certified lactation consultant, at Nourri-Lait's premises, respecting the measures of security required by public health. Moms can also chat with a consultant over the phone.
Would you like to be a breastfeeding godmother? Visit the Naissance-Renaissance Outaouais website.
To register for the online conference:
[i] HEALTH CANADA. 2012. “Trends in Breastfeeding Practices in Canada (2001 to 2009-2010)”, Food and Nutrition, version updated April 24, 2012. http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ fn-an/ surveill/nutrition/commun/prenatal/trends-tendances-eng.php