Official State of Rhode Island website

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Breastfeeding Support

WIC is committed to helping families meet their breastfeeding goals by providing education, encouragement, and personalized support throughout their breastfeeding journey.

Breastfeeding Education

WIC provides:

  • Information during pregnancy about the benefits of breastfeeding.
  • Guidance on getting started after birth.
  • Education on topics such as milk supply, pumping, returning to work or school, and introducing complementary foods.

Lactation Support

WIC offers:

  • Access to trained breastfeeding staff, including designated breastfeeding experts and peer counselors.
  • One-on-one support for common breastfeeding challenges.
  • Referrals to lactation consultants, healthcare professionals, and community breastfeeding resources when additional support is needed.

Breastfeeding Peer Counseling

Peer counselors provide:

  • Support from parents with personal breastfeeding experience and specialized training.
  • Encouragement and practical tips from someone who understands the day-to-day realities of breastfeeding.

Breast Pumps and Supplies

WIC provides:

  • Access to hospital grade breast pumps for participants who have a medical need.
  • Education on safe milk expression, storage, and handling.

Enhanced Food Packages

Breastfeeding participants receive:

  • Additional nutritious foods for those who are fully or mostly breastfeeding.
  • Support for healthy nutrition during lactation.

Ongoing Support Throughout Infancy

WIC is here to support families every step of the way by providing:

  • Breastfeeding support throughout infancy and beyond.
  • Guidance on balancing breastfeeding with work, school, childcare, and family life.
  • Assistance during transitions, such as introducing solid foods while continuing to breastfeed.

To learn about additional breastfeeding resources and support available to families, please visit: