by Betsy Schwartz, Birth Network of Florida

In honor of World Breastfeeding Week Birth Network of Florida decided to bring breastfeeding information to the obstetrician offices, rather than host an event for the public, as many groups do at this time.  We also created our newsletter that month with breastfeeding as the theme.

Each in-service was individually tailored for the specific office.  We made breastfeeding posters to bring to the offices for display for the week.  In addition, we brought newsletters and Birth Network information.

It was fairly easy to get a commitment, as we told the staff we were bringing lunch!!  This is really the only time the staff and the doctors have in their busy schedules.   The lunch made it very informal, which was a great way to dialogue about breastfeeding rather than formally present the information.  The intent was for us to give information, but to also find out about how the office staff handles breastfeeding questions and what their philosophy about breastfeeding is.

We spoke about the needs in the community, what services already exist to help a breastfeeding mother, what the goals of the Birth Network are in general and with regard to breastfeeding.  We discussed common breastfeeding challenges, and how the most important factor to success is the breastfeeding Mom’s support system, or lack thereof.

Overall, we got a great reception from the offices we visited.  They were grateful we came to them.  In our small rural community, we are finding that the key to our success as a Birth Network is to bring the information to the community via workshops, informal talks, newsletters, newspaper, and word of mouth.  News spreads quickly here!

When planning any event, such as the breastfeeding in-service, always tailor the event to meet the specific needs of your community.  You’ll find people receptive and willing to share and network.

In Sisterhood,
Betsy Schwartz
President
Birth Network of Florida, Inc.