Breastfeeding is growing worldwide![]()
The St. Francois County Health Department Breastfeeding Program
is part of the Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services
& WIC Program. Our WIC Program has
Breastfeeding Peer Counselors
on staff for breastfeeding support 24 hours a day
at (573)366-1386.
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TOP 10 REASONS TO Breastfeed
10. Breastfeeding promotes bonding between mom and baby.
9. Nursing helps mom lose weight after baby is born.
8. Breast milk is always the right temperature.
7. Breast milk is always ready and requires no preparation or expense.
6. Breast milk provides perfect infant nutrition.
5. Breast milk is more digestible than formula.
4. Breastfeeding decreases baby’s risk of developing ear infections.
3. Breast milk contains immunities to disease and aids in the development of
baby’s immune system.2. It’s what breasts were designed for.
1. Breastfeeding PAYS OFF!... Ask about our rewards for exclusive
Breastfeeding WIC clients!!
Breastfeeding Counseling Available
One-on-One time with our counselors which gives you the
opportunity to ask unanswered questions about your baby.
A variety of methods are available to mothers and expectant
mothers for breastfeeding counseling sessions
Call the help line 24 hours a day at 573-366-1386
Use our office telephone help line for counseling Monday through Friday from
8:00 AM until 4:00 PM at 573-431-1947, ext. 3
ask for a Breastfeeding Peer CounselorCounseling is available through In-clinic visits from our staff
Counseling is available through in-home visits from our staff
Counseling is available through in-hospital visits from our staff
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Facts & Questions about Breastfeeding
"Breastfeeding -Keep it Simple"
by Amy Spangler
How do I know if my baby is getting enough to eat?
Baby is: active, alert happy and satisfied after breastfeeding.
Eating at least 8 times in each 24 hours suckling and swallowing while
breastfeeding and gaining 4-8 ounces each week after the first week.
Having four or more poops and six or more wet diapers a day by day 5.
Having yellow poop by day 5 and clear or pale yellow urine.
If you see all these signs, you can be sure your baby is
getting enough to eat. If you are unsure, keep breastfeeding, and call your local
WIC office.
How often should I breastfeed?
Breastfeed whenever your baby shows signs of hunger or thirst.
These signs include:
Squirming
Sucking on hands or fingers
Smacking lips
Coughing
Yawning
Some babies breastfeed every 1-3 hours day and night;
others breastfeed every hour for three to five feedings then sleep for
3-4 hours in between. Every baby is different. Your baby needs to breastfeed
at least 8 times in each 24 hours. Many babies breastfeed 10-12 times a day.24 Hour Breastfeeding Helpline
For more information
please contact a
Breastfeeding Peer Counselor
@ 573-431-1947 extension 3.
573-366-1386
Missouri Breastfeeding Peer Counseling Program Information

