Florida and National Breastfeeding Support Resources
Breastfeeding During a Pandemic
FBC would like to state our position that we continue to support Breastmilk as the preferred method of nutrition which is still encouraged and supported even in times of an outbreak such as Covid 19. All babies deserve access to breastmilk when not medically contraindicated.
Covid-19 Screening
Mother-baby dyads should be evaluated on a case by case bases depending upon level of risk and/or positive test results available for the mother. Information pertaining to screening and level of risk can be found at the Florida Department of Health. Dependent upon level of risk, the provision of breastmilk feedings and care for the mother and baby can be provided by following guidelines listed by the United States Breastfeeding Committee pertaining to Infant and young child feedings in an emergency.
Support
During emergencies, breastfeeding support, and education is key to ensure mom and baby are successful and reduce the risk of severe illness due to infection and malnutrition. We are prepared to provide you with those extra layers of support. We have included references that can help you to make an informed decision.
Resources
- CDC Guidance on Pregnancy and Breastfeeding (Last updated April 3, 2020).
- ILCA Resources and Information
Stay Healthy
We encourage all families that are home and healthy to please continue to stay home, be safe, remain healthy, and breastfeed your baby.
To help support the breastfeeding goals of mothers in the state of Florida our organization is dedicated to providing education, support, and encouragement to families that want to breastfeed. To find professional help near you browse through our directory with contact information listed per Hospital, WIC, Healthy Start, Private Practice and La Leche League among supporters of the florida breastfeeding coalition across the state of Florida.
Additional State Resources and Directories
La Leche League is an international, nonprofit, nonsectarian organization dedicated to providing support, encouragement, information, and education to women who want to breastfeed.
To find information and meetings for your local La Leche League visit: 
Florida Lactation Consultation Association
FLCA is dedicated to creating a climate among health professionals, parents, and the general population which promotes, supports, and protects breastfeeding as the optimum method of infant feeding. They provide educational and networking opportunities four times per year at quarterly meetings for lactation consultants, lay breastfeeding counselors, and health educators.
Visit their website for more information.
Florida Association of Healthy Start Coalitions
The Florida Association of Healthy Start Coalitions, Inc. (FAHSC) is dedicated to strengthening maternal and child health by ensuring that all Florida families have access to a continuum of affordable and quality care and services. We do this through our primary program, Healthy Start, but also through sister programs, such as MIECHV, and public awareness campaigns. Many of our coalitions participate in the National Fetal and Infant Mortality Review (FIMR), which consists of countywide efforts to better understand the issues associated with fetal and infant mortality and morbidity and to develop strategies that improve perinatal systems of care, locally and statewide.
To find your local coalition visit…
National Resources
ONLINE – Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed)
– A peer-reviewed and fully referenced database of drugs to which breastfeeding mothers may be exposed. Among the data included are maternal and infant levels of drugs, possible effects on breastfed infants and on lactation, and alternate drugs to consider.
