Breast milk helps your baby grow strong and healthy. Breastfed babies have fewer ear problems, colds and certain allergies. They also are less at risk for SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).

Breastfeeding is good for mothers too! It helps build a special bond between mother and baby. It can also reduce the risk for anemia (not enough blood cells), osteoporosis (bone loss), and some cancers.

Doctors say most moms should feed their babies only breast milk for the first six (6) months. Moms should continue to breastfeed for at least 12 months, or longer if both child and mother desire. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends breastfeeding up to two (2) years of age or beyond.

CLASSES & PROGRAMS

Visit our online listing of classes and programs, or select your preferred language below to download the listing for this topic:
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Breastfeeding Help

We offer lactation support with Alta Bates Summit Medical Center. Members can call to schedule an appointment (in-person at the hospital, online, or over the phone) with a lactation consultant.

To schedule an appointment, please call:

Alta Bates Summit Medical Center
Monday through Friday 9 am to 4 pm
Phone number: 1.510.204.6546

Members can also get support with breastfeeding and food at WIC (Women, Infants, and Children). Medi-Cal members are eligible for WIC. To learn more about WIC and search for an office, please visit myfamily.wic.ca.gov.

Health Guides

Please view the Breastfeeding chapter in the Pregnancy Care Book under Pregnancy & Baby in the Live Healthy Library.

Breast Pumps

The Alliance covers breast pumps when needed. Just ask your doctor, your baby’s doctor, or the Alliance about getting a pump. To request a pump, they can fill out the Breast Pump Request Form. You can call an Alliance IBCLC at the numbers above if you need help learning to use your pump.

Guide to Breast Pumps:

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Helpful Links

HELPFUL LINKS

If you would like to receive member materials in another language or format, we can help.

Contact Us

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