Convenient breastfeeding support near you
Breastfeeding your baby comes with numerous benefits for both you and your child, but it can be challenging to initiate and maintain. We help women learn how to feed their newborns or address any issues that arise as well as feel confident and comfortable during these extraordinary bonding moments. Our specially trained team, which includes internationally board-certified lactation consultants, will support you throughout your pregnancy.
We offer:
- Prenatal breastfeeding classes
- 1-on-1 consultations during your hospital stay
- Outpatient services after birth
- Support groups with other moms
- Help lines and resources after you and your baby go home
Find a breastfeeding class and register online today, or call 800-3-ADVOCATE to schedule an appointment with a specialist. You can also read our handy breastfeeding tips online.
Breastfeeding benefits for moms & babies
Offering education about the many benefits of breastfeeding for both mothers and babies is part of our support efforts. When deciding how to nourish your child, consider the advantages that come with breast milk:
Perfect for baby: Breast milk contains all the nutrients your growing baby needs, is the easiest form of nutrition for him or her to digest and is always just the right temperature. Breastfeeding is the healthiest choice for your child, as well as the most convenient and economical.
Fewer, shorter periods of sickness: Research shows breastfed infants have fewer and shorter episodes of illness.
Mother-child bonding: The skin-to-skin contact associated with breastfeeding promotes bonding.
Viral, bacterial defense: Breastfeeding helps your baby’s immune system defend against most viral and bacterial infections.
Illness prevention: Breast milk aids in preventing the development of illnesses like celiac disease, inflammatory bowel syndrome, asthma and childhood cancers.
Weight loss aid for mother: Breastfeeding can increase a mother's rate of weight loss and helps the uterus return to its normal size.
Cancer risk reduction: Women who breastfeed reduce their risk of developing ovarian cancer, premenopausal breast cancer, osteoporosis and anemia.
Guidance at every stage of your pregnancy
We're here to help you both before and after your little one arrives, giving you all the tools you need to breastfeed successfully while also respecting your privacy, dignity and cultural norms. Speak to your doctor for more information about our services, which include:
Prenatal breastfeeding classes: We offer classes to prepare pregnant women on basic breastfeeding techniques such as positioning and latching, avoiding common problems and pumping and breast milk storage. Partners or support persons are also encouraged to attend. Register for a breastfeeding class today.
Birthing center nurses: Many of the nurses you will meet at our birthing centers have earned special certification as lactation counselors. They can teach you the basics of positioning your baby as well as coach your newborn to latch onto your breast.
Lactation consultants: Working collaboratively with our birthing center nurses, our lactation consultants, many of whom are internationally board-certified, focus on helping new mothers when establishing breastfeeding or milk supply is more challenging.
Volunteer breastfeeding peer counselors: Some of our locations give you the opportunity to talk to peer counselors, who can provide basic information and support as well as share their own experiences and tips.
Nap time: Research has shown that new moms and babies need time to rest and recover. Many of our birthing centers promote voluntary naps at certain parts of the day. Our staff members will try not to interrupt you and your baby during your nap but of course will be available if you need anything.
Newborn channel: Many of our birthing centers broadcast a newborn channel 24 hours a day. It provides new parents with information about caring for their infants, including breastfeeding guidance and visuals.
Outpatient services: Many of our lactation consultants offer individual appointments for mothers who are already out of the hospital. They work closely with your physician and pediatrician to help you meet your breastfeeding goals. They handle questions and concerns including pumping and returning to work, pain with breastfeeding, milk supply concerns, latch difficulty, slow infant weight gain and much more.
Breast pump rental: Hospital-grade breast pumps are available to rent at many of our birthing centers.
Support groups: We offer free breastfeeding support groups at many of our locations. They provide mothers with an opportunity to meet others, share experiences and receive guidance and support.
24-Hour Warm Line: Ask your doctor if your hospital has a number for our 24-Hour Warm Line, which you can call with any questions about breastfeeding. If your call is not answered immediately, a lactation consultant will get back to you within 24 hours.
Milk depots: Many of our hospital serve as milk depots where approved donors can drop off their breast milk for babies whose moms are unable to offer it. These donations help provide the best possible nourishment for babies. If you'd like to become a donor, speak to your doctor about getting started.
Insurance information
The law requires that health plans (with the exception of Medicaid and WIC) cover breastfeeding supplies. Coverage will vary among insurance plans, so it’s important to understand what's available to you through your plan. It's also important to know that many plans require you to see an in-network or participating health care provider. In some cases, going to an out-of-network provider or lactation consultant may mean higher costs or no coverage at all.
When calling your insurance carrier about your benefits and coverage, the following questions may help guide you:
Pumps that are covered:
- What type of pump is available to me (hospital-grade rental pump, double or single electric personal use, battery or manual)?
- Are there brand options?
- Do I have to get the “recommended” pump or can I choose to purchase one and submit the receipt for reimbursement?
- If I have already obtained a breast pump, can I submit a claim for reimbursement?
Getting my pump:
- When can I get a breast pump? Before giving birth or not until after?
- Where can I get a breast pump?
Medical-necessity pump:
- Do I have a rental pump option?
- Will I need a prescription for proof of medical necessity?
Get care
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