Cristal Barrera De McClain

A WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor is a paraprofessional support person who gives basic breastfeeding information and encouragement to WIC pregnant and breastfeeding mothers.

1. Provide Peer-Level Support:

• Offer nonjudgmental, mother-to-mother support based on personal experience
• Share tips, encouragement, and realistic expectations about breastfeeding
• Help moms troubleshoot common issues (e.g., latch problems, milk supply concerns)
• Reassure moms during tough times like cluster feeding, growth spurts, or return to work

2. Education & Outreach:

• Teach breastfeeding basics (benefits, positioning, signs of good latch, etc.)
• Discuss pumping and milk storage techniques, especially for working or student moms
• Provide prenatal and postpartum breastfeeding education
• Encourage exclusive breastfeeding when appropriate

3. Follow-Up & Communication:

• Call, text, or meet with moms regularly—before and after birth
• Track contacts and provide documentation per WIC guidelines
• Refer clients to lactation consultants, nurses, or IBCLCs when issues are beyond their scope

4. Team Collaboration:

• Work under supervision of the Breastfeeding Coordinator or IBCLC
• Participate in ongoing training and staff meetings
• Maintain confidentiality and uphold WIC policies

Birth Assistant is the term Willow uses to describe the Midwife Assistant role. It is a vital position to the safety, well-being and satisfaction of the pregnant, laboring and postpartum client requiring strong interpersonal and clinical skills as well as stamina and motivation. The BA supports Willow Midwives' philosophy. Some of the duties are:

Before Birth:

• Prepare the birth room (cleaning, setting up sterile equipment, supplies, monitoring tools)
• Review the birthing person's chart to assist midwife effectively
• Greet and provide comfort to the family upon arrival

During Labor & Birth:

• Monitor and record vital signs (maternal blood pressure, fetal heart tones)
• Assist the midwife with clinical tasks (IV setup, oxygen, suction, etc.)
• Provide physical support (counter pressure, position changes, hydration reminders)
• Maintain a calm, reassuring presence
• Ensure supplies are stocked and available during the birth

After Birth:

• Assist with newborn care (weighing, Apgar scoring, vitals)
• Support breastfeeding initiation
• Help with maternal care (perineal care, monitoring bleeding)
• Document the birth process under supervision
• Clean and restock the birth room
• Provide discharge instructions and assist with paperwork if needed
  

Emotional Support

• Offer reassurance and encouragement
• Help reduce anxiety and fear during labor
• Support the partner or family members in their role

Physical Support

• Suggest and assist with comfort measures (breathing, massage, position changes, hydrotherapy, etc.)
• Offer counterpressure and touch during contractions
• Use tools like birth balls, rebozo, or heat packs
• Help create a calm, comforting birth environment

Informational Support

• Help the birthing person understand hospital routines and options
• Explain procedures or medical terminology (in non-clinical terms)
• Assist with questions for nurses or doctors
• Support informed decision-making without offering personal medical advice

Advocacy Support

• Encourage the birthing person to voice their needs and preferences
• Help advocate for their birth plan respectfully
• Support communication between the family and medical staff

Immediate Postpartum Support

• Assist with skin-to-skin and initial bonding
• Support the first breastfeeding session
• Provide reassurance during early recovery