Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding Support
Breastfeeding is a natural and healthy way to nourish your baby. Breast milk provides the ideal nutrition for infants while helping protect them from illnesses such as ear infections, respiratory infections, and diarrhea. Breastfeeding also offers long-term health benefits, including reducing the risk of obesity, diabetes, and certain childhood cancers.
Breastfeeding benefits mothers as well. It helps reduce postpartum bleeding, supports the uterus in returning to its pre-pregnancy size more quickly, may aid in postpartum weight loss, and can lower the risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
While breastfeeding is natural, it is also a learned skill. Many mothers and babies benefit from guidance and support, and the Floyd County Health Department is here to help every step of the way.
Lactation Consultations
The Floyd County Health Department offers one-on-one lactation consultations with a Certified Lactation Specialist (CLS). Whether you’re preparing for your baby’s arrival or experiencing challenges after delivery, we’re here to support your breastfeeding journey.
Our lactation services can help with:
- Proper positioning and latch
- Milk supply concerns
- Pain during breastfeeding
- Assessing infant milk intake
- Poor infant weight gain
- Pumping and returning to work
- General breastfeeding education and support
To schedule a lactation consultation, please call Christina Tincher at the Floyd County Health Department.
Lactation Room
The Floyd County Health Department is proud to offer a private, comfortable lactation room for breastfeeding and pumping mothers. The room provides a clean, quiet, and welcoming space for nursing parents who need privacy while visiting the health department.
Our lactation room is available during regular business hours and is designed to support breastfeeding families in our community. If you have questions about using the room or need assistance, please ask a member of our staff.
Professional Education
Through grant funding from the Kentucky WIC Program, breastfeeding education and training are available for healthcare professionals throughout Eastern Kentucky.
Training sessions can be provided for:
- Nursing programs
- Medical schools
- Physician offices
- Hospitals
- Other healthcare organizations
Education is provided by Jan Johnson, RD, LD, IBCLC, Regional Breastfeeding Promotion Coordinator. Jan also connects healthcare providers with breastfeeding resources and community support services to better serve their patients.
