Parents, already having had 1 or more children, have the option of receiving individual breastfeeding counseling that is specific to their needs and experience. To assess their unique needs, an informal and brief interview is initially done, so as to get an idea of the client’s breastfeeding history.

Interview Questions

1. How many other children do you have?
2. How many of them did you breastfeed?
3. When were other foods and drink incorporated into their diet?
4. On average, when did they stop breastfeeding?
5. Describe your experience with breastfeeding?
6. Who are the people in your family that support your choice of breastfeeding?

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Mothers who have 1 or more children are invited by the antenatal health provider to attend Individual Counseling with the Breastfeeding Facilitator. Alternatively, mothers along with their partners may access the Facilitator directly to make appointment for counseling.
2. At the end of the Breastfeeding Classes for New Parents the facilitator is available for those that require individual counseling. (This is usually at 10:00 am on the day of Breastfeeding Classes peculiar to the Clinic in question.)
3. Contact Breastfeeding Facilitator after the birth of baby for further support and help with implementation of recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How long will the consultation session last?
   This depends on the nature of the concerns of the parents. However, these usually last 30 – 45 minutes.
2. Are fathers invited?
   Yes.
3. Should parents encounter breastfeeding challenges at home, is home support available?
   Yes, a breastfeeding home visit could be made. Please contact the Breastfeeding Facilitator at your clinic to schedule appointment.
4. Could I refer another mother that is experiencing breastfeeding problems?
   Yes.
5. Can people not attending the Community Health Clinic also obtain counseling?
   Yes.