Breastfeeding Peer Supporters Graduate

The graduating Breastfeeding Peer Support class of 2018 with course tutor and Helensville Birthing Centre’s Lactation Consultant Debbie Tetlow standing far left of back row.

New mothers in the South Kaipara area now have a helpful new resource at their disposal to help them on their breastfeeding journey – 17 other local breastfeeding mums.

The 17 local women have graduated from a 12-week programme created by La Leche League NZ and facilitated by the Helensville Birthing Centre.

Already the Breastfeeding Peer Supporters have been active within the community providing guidance to mums through social media and dedicated support group on Facebook.

“There is a real need for mums to be helping other mums in our community and so our Peer Supporters will be an invaluable asset,” said Debbie Tetlow, a Helensville Birthing Centre Lactation Consultant.

The Peer Supporters are available to help mums with any issue or problem including low supply, latching and weaning.

“The course has given me the tools and experience to understand breastfeeding beyond my own personal experience and I now have the confidence and knowledge to help other mums in need,” explained Mya, one of the recent graduates.

Helensville Birthing Centre is one of the country’s best for breastfeeding with 100% of babies born at the centre and 95% overall being discharged exclusively breastfeeding.

This is above the national average of 83%.

Debbie Tetlow is excited to see the impact the Peer Supporters will have saying, “with the right help and support they will enable more mothers to breastfeed for longer.”

To find out more or to get in touch with a Breastfeeding Peer Supporter visit, www.birthcentre.co.nz/peer-supporters or join the Helensville Breastfeeding Support Facebook Group.