Feeding and nursing a baby is a unique relationship; it is not only about nutrition but also about connection, comfort, and immune system development.
The team at Willow Family Medicine is committed to helping families explore this relationship and meet their nursing, lactation, breast/chestfeeding, and infant nutrition goals.
Often families hear "breast/chest is best" or "fed is best." These simplified statements do not cover the complexity of factors impacting breastfeeding and infant nutrition. Instead;
Best is being informed about normal infant behavior and nutrition.
Best is being knowledgeable of the red flags of infant feeding difficulties.
Best is a well-fed infant and a healthy family unit.
Best is participating in evidence-based medicine that is collaborative and empathetic.
Best is asking questions and obtaining answers in a respectful environment.
Best is making an informed decision with the necessary support to adapt and change with time.
Best is learning to use breast milk substitutes appropriately, safely, and effectively.
Best is working with a lactation medical professional who is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and/or certified as a North American Board Of Breastfeeding And Lactation Medicine physician.
Best is having access to referrals to other allied care providers to help compliment care.
Best is to be offered continuity of care and follow-up.
Best is having access to socialized medicine. As defined by the Alberta Schedule of Medical Benefits, families should not pay out-of-pocket for essential medical care or medically necessary procedure(s), such as infant frenectomy.
Best is to receive care in an inclusive and trauma-informed setting.
