Breastfeeding problems can almost always be managed with help. You may need information, support, and technical assistance, before or after your baby is born. Here are some places you can find help.

Breastfeeding Classes
Often available through hospitals, prenatal breastfeeding classes provide general information on breastfeeding and suggest ways to solve problems. Educating yourself about breastfeeding and learning how to avoid common problems before your baby is born will lead to an easier, more fulfilling breastfeeding experience.

Classes consisting of small groups are best. Bring your partner or a friend with you. Classes should include demonstration of techniques. Ask your childbirth educator, hospital or health care provider for information about breastfeeding classes. You might also try checking your local Yellow Pages under breastfeeding.

International Lactation Consultant Association
The ILCA has listings of certified lactation consultants in your area. You want to look for the initials IBCLC. They stand for International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and mean that the lactation consultant has met a required number of counseling hours and has passed a test on various breastfeeding topics and situations. To locate an IBCLC you can contact the ILCA. You will be referred to three IBCLC's in your area.

ILCA
4101 Lake Boone Trail
Raleigh, NC 27607
phone: 919-787-5181
fax: 919-787-4916
website: http://www.ilca.org/
email: ilca@erols.com

La Leche League International
L.L.L.I. has groups with trained leaders in every U.S. state and chapters in several other countries. The trained leaders have breastfed their own children and have special training. L.L.L.I. offers weekly or monthly support meetings and phone counseling to pregnant and nursing mothers.

LLLI
1400 N. Meacham Rd.
Schaumburg, IL 60173-4048
phone: (847) 519-7730
or
1-800-LALECHE
website: www.lalecheleague.org

W.I.C
WIC (Women's, Infant's and Children's Program) provides nutritional counseling, food supplements and breastfeeding support for pregnant and lactating women and their young children. Many W.I.C. offices have lactation consultants or specially trained health care personel available to assist mothers with breastfeeding. You can find W.I.C. in your local phone book. Call to find out what services they have available. Most W.I.C services require that you meet low-income guidelines.