Nursing for 6 months or longer provides the most benefit, but any amount of breastfeeding is better than none. Work with a qualified lactation consultant for help with breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding is good for you because:
- It helps you recover more quickly from pregnancy and childbirth, promoting healing and weight loss.
- It saves you time and money.
- It helps stop diseases such as diabetes and cancer.
- It helps with mood and bonding with your baby.
Breastfeeding is good for your baby because:
- It calms and sooths them.
- It has been shown to help stop many illnesses.
- It gives your baby all the nutrients they need for the first 6 months of life.
- It allows you to share your immunity with them and helps keep them healthy.
You can also talk with your primary care provider* (PCP) if you have any questions.
*Your primary care provider is the doctor, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner in charge of your health care.
Maternity and Newborn Care with SFHP
San Francisco Health Plan (SFHP) is here to support you with maternal care, such as:
- Breastfeeding education and aids.
- Birth and after birth care.
- Breast pumps and supplies.
- Support from doulas (birth workers).
- Mental health care, including postpartum depression.
- Non-emergency transportation to get to health visits.
Other Help for Moms
- You can get help with food from the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Supplemental Nutrition Program.
- You can get up to $50 gift cards for going to your prenatal, postpartum, and well-child visits. Learn more at Member Incentives.
- Please check your SFHP handbook to review your Benefits and Covered Services.
