Breastfeeding Resources
Yale New Haven Hospital is here to support you on your breastfeeding journey. We recognize the importance of breastfeeding for the health of moms and babies, and also realize that every family's journey is different and unique. Our team will work with you to create a rewarding and positive experience for you and your baby.
We provide support and resources to women who want to breastfeed that includes education before and after your baby is born, as well as hands-on teaching from specially-trained maternity nurses. Certified lactation consultants are available 7 days a week when breastfeeding issues are identified such as latching difficulties, pain and low milk supply.
We recommend all parents planning to breastfeed take our Breastfeeding Basics class a few months before baby is due. Search for a session that fits your schedule in our Classes and Events section.
Once the mother is discharged, individualized support is available through our Breastfeeding Consultation Services or group support at our B.A.B.Y. Program. There are also additional community breastfeeding resources.
Breastfeeding Consultation Services
Our Advanced Practice Provider Lactation Consultants provide individualized, one-to-one appointments. Our team sees mothers who are having issues with feeding their babies due to poor weight gain, latching difficulties, low milk supply, sore/cracked nipples, mastitis and over supply. Partners are welcome and encouraged to attend.
At an initial consultation our consultant will take a detailed medical history of mom, baby and birth story. Then an assessment will be made for mom, baby and the breastfeeding latch. Hands-on recommendations will be shared at the time of the appointment along with a written detailed plan. Appointments generally last an hour. Follow-up appointments are welcome as new issues arise and a plan needs adjustment. We are also available for weight checks.
Our team also provides prenatal visits and plans for women that may be at risk for lactation issues such as those with a history of lactation issues with past pregnancies, history of breast surgery or endocrine disorders. We also support gestational carriers, induced lactation and the LGBTQ community.
Most insurance is accepted. To schedule an appointment, call 203-688-3840 and choose option #4.
Locations
- Yale New Haven Hospital
York Street Campus
20 York St., West Pavilion - Room 804
New Haven, CT 06510
- 144 N. Main St.
Branford, CT 06405 (free parking)
Video Visit Lactation Consultations
A video visit provides one to one consultation with a board certified advanced practice lactation consultant in the comfort and safety of your home using a smartphone or tablet. Our expert team can help with any of your breastfeeding related issues. Most insurance plans are accepted. Prenatal or Outpatient consultation are offered. For an appointment call 203-688-3840 and choose option #4.
Onsite Pump Coordinator
Our breast pump coordinator works directly with the lactation team to identify families that have not already received an insurance covered breast pump. Once the patient’s insurance eligibility is verified, the coordinator will meet with mom to discuss different pump options that are covered under their individual insurance plan. Families will now have the option to leave with their insurance covered pump at time of discharge. This service is available 7 day a week. No more having to wait for the breast pump to arrive in the mail.
Breastfeeding Support Group – Online
This free, online support group welcomes all breastfeeding mothers. A lactation consultant facilitates the group and will provide guidance. Only female support persons are encouraged to participate in order to protect your privacy. Moms are invited to attend as many sessions as they wish up.
The group meets every Tuesday from 4 - 5 pm.
The Breastfeeding Support Group is currently being offered as a Live Webinar. Attendees will need a high speed web-connection as well as camera with microphone to participate interactively in the class. Register online by searching for the group by name or call 203-688-2000 and choose option #2 or 888-700-6543.
A Mother's Place Boutique
Our boutique offers hospital grade breast pump rentals, personalized bra fittings and breastfeeding supplies. The boutique also has sweet gifts for mom and baby such as layettes, baby booties, baby hats, lotions and accessories. Gift certificates are available.
A Mother's Place Boutique is on the 8th floor of Yale New Haven Children's Hospital.