Breastfeeding Support

Purpose of Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding gives babies the nutrients they need to grow and stay healthy. Breast milk has the right mix of vitamins, fat, and protein for a baby’s body and brain. It also has antibodies that help protect babies from getting sick. Breastfeeding can lower the risk of ear infections, stomach problems, and some long-term health issues.

Breastfeeding is good for mothers too. It can help the body heal after birth, may lower the risk of certain cancers, and can help build a strong bond between mother and baby.

Get Free Breastfeeding Support

OCPH wants to help you succeed in meeting your breastfeeding goals.

Learn more about breastfeeding with the OCPH Quick Reference Guide(PDF, 9MB)

All of our nurses can help you with concerns or questions about breastfeeding your baby. Parents can contact our office to ask questions or to schedule a home visit to have the baby weighed and have questions answered.

For more complicated breastfeeding issues, OCPH has Board Certified (IBCLC) Lactation Consultants on staff.

Call an OCPH Nurse Email an OCPH Nurse

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I breastfeed my baby?

Newborns usually eat every 2–3 hours, or 8–12 times a day. As babies grow, they may eat less often but take in more milk at each feeding.

How do I know if my baby is getting enough milk?

You can tell your baby is getting enough milk if your baby is:

gaining weight steadily
has regular wet and dirty diapers,
and your baby seems full and calm after feeding.

Does breastfeeding hurt?

Breastfeeding may feel uncomfortable at first, but it should not be very painful. Pain can be a sign that the baby is not latched on correctly. If breastfeeding is painful for you, our nurses can help. Give us a call at 920-832-5100 or send us an email PHQuestions@outagamie.org.

How long should each feeding last?

Many babies feed for about 10–20 minutes on each breast, but this can be different for every baby.

Can I breastfeed if I go back to work?

Yes. Many parents pump milk at work and store it for their baby to drink later.

How long can breast milk be stored?

Breast milk can stay fresh for about 4 hours at room temperature, up to 4 days in the fridge, and several months in the freezer.

What if I am not making enough milk?

Feeding often, drinking enough fluids, and getting rest can help. A doctor or lactation consultant can also give support and tips.

Can I take medicine while breastfeeding?

Some medicines are safe and some are not. Always check with a doctor or pharmacist first.

When should I stop breastfeeding?

This is a personal choice. Health experts often suggest breastfeeding for at least the first year, but families can decide what works best for them.

Who can I ask for help with breastfeeding?

You can talk to a doctor, nurse, lactation consultant, or join a breastfeeding support group for help and advice.

Outagamie County Public Health offers a breastfeeding support group in collaboration with the City of Appleton Health Department and Parent Connection.

The group meets the 3rd Wednesday of every month

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Appleton Public Library
Nelson Family Conference Room
Healthy snacks and water provided
Children are welcome | No childcare provided

Go to bit.ly/BreastfeedingConnections to register. Walk-ins are welcome.

General Resources

The Well Badger Resource Center helps connect women, pregnant women, families, adolescents, children, and health professionals with health care services and resources throughout the state.

For health information and referral services:
Well Badger
Call 800-642-7837, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday
Email wellbadger@wwhf.org

Workplace Resources

A law called the Affordable Care Act says that employers must give new mothers time to take breaks to pump breast milk for their baby during the first year after the child is born. These breaks should be given whenever the employee needs them. Employers must also provide a private place for pumping that is not a bathroom. The space should be out of sight and free from interruptions by coworkers or the public.