Breastfeeding Support

Our goal is to help you make breastfeeding a success

We're here to educate and encourage moms about breastfeeding. As your breastfeeding journey begins, you can count on us for support, expertise and all the help you need - even after you go home. If you haven’t signed up for a breastfeeding support class yet, consider adding it to your pregnancy to-do list and become familiar with the helpful lactation services we offer for you and your baby.

Your Breastfeeding Care Plan

• Bonding with your baby through immediate, uninterrupted skin-to-skin time after your baby's birth  
• Breastfeeding when your baby is hungry or every one-three hours for about 15-45 minutes each time (with a break no longer than four hours)
• Your mother-baby nurse can answer your breastfeeding questions and our board certified lactation consultants will visit with you as needed
• If your baby is admitted to the NICU, board certified lactation consultants will assist you in the NICU 
• Tell your nurse or board certified lactation consultant if you experience any pain or discomfort with breastfeeding; we're here to help you
• Your nurse or IBCLC lactation consultant will show you how to express your milk by hand or with a pump if needed

New-Mom Breastfeeding Supply List

All you really need to breastfeed is you and your baby. However, having the following items available can be helpful as you get started. We will provide essentials for your hospital stay, but consider gathering the following breastfeeding aids for use at home.

Helpful breastfeeding supplies:

• Comfort gel pads
• Nursing pads
• Comfortable nursing bra (including one you can wear to bed)
• Nursing pillow
• Cool packs (or bag of frozen vegetables) to soothe engorged breasts

Five Ways to Make Breastfeeding a Success

• Stay in the room with your newborn. This can help you respond to your baby’s hunger signs and breastfeed frequently which helps boost your milk supply
• Since feeding your newborn will be your number one priority, ask visitors to leave if you don’t feel comfortable with them being around
• Hold your baby skin-to-skin often during your time at Bryan Family Birthplace and at home, especially if your baby seems to be sleepy
• Avoid pacifiers and artificial nipples in the early weeks. You can pacify your baby at your breast
• Ask your partner and other family members to fully support your commitment to breastfeeding and show them how they can help you