Breastfeeding - LIFT | Thurston County

Lactation and Infant Feeding Assistance in Thurston County

Breast/Chest-feeding is one of the best ways to protect the health of both you and your baby. Not only does it create a special bond with your baby, but it also has many long-term health benefits and is a safe and affordable way to feed your baby. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization both recommend breast/chest-feeding exclusively for 6 months and then up to at least a year (and longer if possible)!

Thurston County has many local resources for you because we know how important it is to have the support and information you need!

Thurston County Drop-In Lactation Support Group

Why Should I Breastfeed?

Babies can consume human milk directly by breastfeeding or chest-feeding (a term used by transgendered or non-binary parents), or by drinking expressed milk from a bottle or cup. You will often hear the term “lactation” used because it is inclusive to all the parents who may be breastfeeding, chest-feeding, or pumping and feeding their babies breastmilk. All offer incredible benefits!

Click on the links below to learn more about breastfeeding basics, benefits, and challenges:

The early days and weeks of lactation can be overwhelming, Wherever or however you deliver, strong support and evidence-based information are crucial to setting the foundation for how you feed your baby. You may have heard terms like “The Golden Hour”, “Colostrum”, and “Engorgement”, click below to explore what the early days might be like.

mother breastfeeding baby right after birth

Following recommended storage and preparation of breast milk can maintain safety and quality of expressed breast milk for the baby's health.

Carefully read and follow the instructions on the infant formula container. These steps will help you know how to prepare and store your infant’s formula correctly. Preparing your infant’s formula according to the instructions is important.

Infant and Young Child Feeding in Emergencies Toolkit (CDC)

The PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act requires employers to provide a reasonable break time for an employee to express breast milk for their nursing child, and a place to pump at work, other than a bathroom, that is shielded from view and free from intrusion from coworkers and the public.

Getting the right support and information is so important to a successful breastfeeding journey. There can be challenges and questions along the way but there are resources to help you meet your goals.

Breastfeeding Help through WIC