Lactation Services at Saint Francis

Breastfeeding Beginnings

This one night class covers topics such as the benefits of breastfeeding, the first few hours, positioning and latching, avoiding common problems, and how to know if your baby is 'getting enough.'

Breastfeeding Mothers Group

This informal group meets weekly to discuss topics related to breastfeeding and child care and provide support and encouragement for mothers and their breastfeeding babies. The group is facilitated by a board certified lactation consultant.

Breastfeeding "Warm Line"

Telephone consultation is available for mothers after discharge from the hospital. Referral to the maternity phone is done for immediate assistance, with follow up by the lactation consultants.

Lactation Consultations

Lactation consultants/lactation counselors are available for consultation with patients, families, and health care providers during the prenatal period, hospital stay and after discharge. In addition to daily rounds on maternity, NICU and labor/delivery, the consultants may be utilized for a variety of reasons:

• Special circumstances in the prenatal period - expected multiples, assessments of the nipple/breast, medical conditions/medications, anticipated congenital problems such as cleft lip/palate and prior breast surgery
• Reinforcement of teaching in maternity area
• Bedside assistance with positioning/latch on issues
• Continued support during the lactation experience
• Support and assistance in the NICU to promote breastfeeding or pumping if needed, to establish mother’s milk supply
• Consultation to medical/surgical units for patients admitted to other parts of hospital
• Educational offerings to OB/GYN medical students, interns and residents
• Educational support and resource to physician staff
• Inservice education for nursing staff
• Promotion of evidence-based practice
• Resource in community
• College presentations
• Round table work sessions at the Legislature
• Community outreach programs

Our MotherCare Program supports our employees who are returning to work and wish to continue breastfeeding. Granted the CT Breastfeeding Coalition’s Gold Standard Award, our MotherCare room provides a private, relaxing room for pumping while at work. We also offer breast pump rental as an employee benefit.