For specific information on this program, please contact the local health agency office and ask to speak to someone on the lactation team.

Coldwater:    517-279-9561 ext. 116    After Hours:  517-617-2252
Hillsdale:      517-437-7395 ext. 324     After Hours:  517-617-5585
Three Rivers: 269-273-2161 ext. 245    After Hours:  517-617-5098

Breast feeding provides many benefits for Mother and baby. 

• Human milk provides the specific nutrients meant for proper nutrition and growth for the infant.

• It also provides antibodies that help protect the baby from illness with decreased likelihood of allergies and dental caries.

• Breast fed babies score slightly higher on IQ tests, especially those born prematurely.

• There are reduced rates of breast and ovarian cancer in breastfeeding women.

• Breast feeding saves time and money.

Moms who decide to breast feed their babies often have many questions on how to do this successfully. 

The Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency offers:

• Free, individual breastfeeding consultations by a registered nurse who is specially trained as a lactation educator. The nurse can answer questions about breastfeeding, offer suggestions on breastfeeding techniques and address problems that might arise

• Free breast pumps if eligible.

• Referrals to breastfeeding support groups in the local community.