Breastfeeding has health benefits for both babies and mothers. Breast milk provides a baby with ideal nutrition and supports growth and development. Breastfeeding can also help protect baby and mom against certain illnesses and diseases.

Current Breastfeeding Recommendations

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends: 

• Exclusive breastfeeding (no formula or added foods/beverages) for the first six months of life.
• Continued breastfeeding after solid foods are introduced as long as you and your baby desire, for two years or beyond.

Health Department Breastfeeding Resources

Home Visitor Services

• Available to all new parents residing in Missoula County.
• Certified lactation specialists and nurses are available for home visits, Monday - Friday 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Breastfeeding Helpline

• Breastfeeding questions? Call the breastfeeding helpline at (406) 207-4357.

WIC

• Income-eligible Missoula County residents that are breastfeeding are eligible to participate in WIC!
• WIC provides a monthly food benefit package, nutrition education, referrals, and more!
• One-on-one support from licensed lactation consultants and peer breastfeeding counselors.

Baby Bistro

• A local free parent-baby support group for learning the ins-and-outs of nourishing your baby.
• This group meets every Tuesday at Missoula Food Bank (1720 Wyoming Street) and is led by locals trained in lactation support. 

Other Breastfeeding Resources

Breast Pumps

Need a breast pump? All insurance providers (including MT Medicaid) now offer coverage for breast pumps.

1. Enrolled in Medicaid? Fill out the MT Medicaid Breast Pump Application to get your free breast pump.
2. Insured through private coverage or your employer? Call and ask about required breast pump coverage for breastfeeding individuals.

Montana Breastfeeding Coalition Resources

Montana Breastfeeding Laws