Breastfeeding Support
Get help with breastfeeding from board-certified lactation consultants.
Giving you and your baby the best start
Breast milk provides the greatest nutritional start for your new baby. While breastfeeding, or chestfeeding, may begin successfully for some new parents, learning to feed can take time for many others.
Count on us for encouragement and education as you learn to breastfeed your new baby. All of our birth center inpatient nurses are trained in lactation support and are ready to help you. We also have board-certified lactation consultants available during your stay and for outpatient visits after you leave the hospital.
Support for you, nutritional care for your baby
Breastfeeding can be a great bonding experience for you and your baby, and your milk is uniquely nutritious for your baby. But it is not always easy to breastfeed. At UW Medicine, we want you to have everything you need to meet your feeding goals.
We offer a variety of services to support you and your baby every step of the way. These services include:
- Prenatal lactation classes: We offer weekly virtual prenatal lactation classes. These sessions are free for UW Medicine patients. During each hourlong session, our lactation consultants provide education and respond to questions from participants. Register for a prenatal lactation class.
- Lactation consultations: Our consultants provide guidance and support to new parents. Our team helps with feeding techniques, including latching and positioning. We also address any other concerns or difficulties you’re experiencing.
- Access to breast pumps: We offer breast pumps for use during your hospital stay and provide prescriptions to get a pump for home use.
- Lactation support groups: Our virtual support group allows new breastfeeding parents to connect with other families in the community. Families are provided access instructions before discharge from the birth centers. You can also use this Zoom link to join on Tuesdays at 1 p.m.