Feeding and nursing a baby is a unique relationship; it is not only about nutrition but 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 and an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and/or specialists as required.
Best is being offered continuity of care and follow up.
Best is having access to socialized medicine. Families should not pay out-of-pocket for essential medical care or medically necessary procedure(s), such as infant frenectomy, as defined by the Alberta Schedule of Medical Benefits.
Willow Family Medicine is dedicated to inclusivity with the use of gender affirming language. However, not all resources we use or share, have included this language. Thank you for your patience as this process evolves.
