The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) have a Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) on staff, trained to support families with breastfeeding decisions, challenges, and management. CLC’s provide clinical guidance, assess feeding, offer interventions, and address common and special lactation situations.
The Genesee Orleans County Department of Health (GODOH) is committed to promoting and protecting a parent’s right to breastfeed/chestfeed their child for as long as they choose. Doctors recommend exclusive breastfeeding/chestfeeding for at least 6 months for the optimal health of a parent and their child.
Rights of Nursing Mothers to Express Breastmilk in the Workplace
New York State Labor Law (Section 206-c) requires employers to provide reasonable time for an employee to express milk during the work period as well as private space (not a restroom) that is free from intrusion by co-workers and the public. These provisions must be accommodated for up to three years after the birth of the child.
Parent Lactation Printable Resources
Lactation Support in Genesee and Orleans Counties
Additional Resources
Becoming a Breastfeeding Site in Genesee/Orleans Counties
Medical Practices: Access resources to attain Breastfeeding Friendly Medical Practice Designations
(*the access resource provides the link to NYSDOH application process for medical designations)
Business Friendly Designations: coming soon
Worksite Friendly Designations: coming soon
GO Health provides technical assistance to worksites and businesses to help them obtain the designation of a breastfeeding, chestfeeding and lactation friendly.
Rochester Regional Health hosts a Parent Cafe every 3rd Saturday of every month from 10:00am - 11:00am at the Genesee County Healthy Living Campus in the Baby Cafe Space.
A Baby Cafe is a free, community-based breastfeeding support program led by lactation specialists. It provides education, guidance, and support to pregnant and breastfeeding mothers at any stage of their journey. Most Baby Cafe sessions are held virtually, but in-person sessions are available at United Memorial Medical Center.
The Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs Program improves care systems and advocates for policies to support children with special health needs, from birth to age 21, and their families.
CYSHCN Program
Postpartum Support International (PSI) helps individuals and families with pregnancy and postpartum mental health through resources, support groups, and professional connections.
Postpartum Support International (PSI)
Baby blues (postpartum blues) is a common, short-term period of mood swings, sadness, and emotional changes that many new mothers experience within the first two weeks after childbirth. Symptoms include irritability, crying spells, and feeling overwhelmed, but they usually resolve without medical intervention.
The Baby Blues
When babies cry, it’s their way of communicating needs. Parents can try soothing them by checking for hunger, a dirty diaper, or discomfort, gently rocking them, offering a pacifier, using calming sounds, or ensuring they are not too hot or cold. If crying persists and the cause is unclear, seeking advice from a healthcare provider is recommended.
Kids Health - What to Do When Babies Cry
Baby bottle tooth decay caused by prolonged exposure to sugary liquids, like milk or juice, when a child sleeps with a bottle. The sugars in these drinks feed bacteria in the mouth, leading to tooth decay.
ADA Tooth Decay with Baby Bottles