Women, Infants and Children (WIC) . . .
Lactation center provides unique services

The Springfield-Greene County Health Department is pleased to announce the opening of the WIC Lactation Center, located at 290 E. Central. The Center offers education and assistance to breastfeeding families at no cost. An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is available to families who are currently breastfeeding or are thinking about breastfeeding, along with trained peer breastfeeding counselors and nutritionists.

The Center recognizes that the twentieth century has witnessed vast improvements in obstetrical care. But mothers have other crucial needs before, during and after childbirth, including education and emotional support as they prepare for the baby's birth and later bond with and integrate the new baby into their families. The following services are available at the Lactation Center:

• Childbirth Classes: As every pregnancy and birth is different, the process still remains wonderfully constant. This class is meant to be a guide as your own story unfolds.
• Prenatal Yoga: Yoga has been shown to help the body prepare for and recover from the birth of your baby. It also helps with fatigue, and the common discomforts of pregnancy.
• Itsy Bitsy Yoga: Teaches techniques for soothing, relaxing and enhancing baby digestion and sleep. Together, the class strengthens the parent-child bond.
• Doula Services: The Doula assists families in gathering information about the course of their labor and the options available. The most crucial role of the Doula is providing continuous emotional reassurance and comfort.
• Nutrition Services: Dietary counseling, breastfeeding support and education.

For more information, contact the WIC Nutrition Program in person or by mail at 290 E. Central, Springfield, MO 65802 or by telephone at 417-864-1079.

The Partnership between the Doula Foundation of Mid-America and the Springfield-Greene County WIC Nutrition Program is made possible through the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, WIC and Nutrition Services.

The Springfield-Greene County WIC program is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. Services are provided on a non-discriminatory basis. Standards for participation in the WIC program are the same for everyone, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age or handicap. Persons who desire information in an alternate format because of a disability, should contact the Springfield-Greene County WIC Program, 290 E. Central, Springfield, MO 65802, or call (417) 864-1079. Hearing-impaired citizens may contact the department through Missouri Relay at 1-800-735-2966.

Springfield-Greene County Health Department 227 East Chestnut Expressway Springfield, MO 65802 (417) 864-1658 * (417) 864-1099 fax Email questions or comments to the Webmaster.