Counseling, education, support and supplies for breastfeeding moms.
Congratulations
on the birth of your baby and your decision to breastfeed! This is one of the most important decisions you will make for your infant.Breastfeeding has been proven to be healthy for your baby -- and for you. Breast milk is the ideal first food for your baby; it provides balanced nutrition, protection against illness, and is a loving, nurturing way to feed your baby.
Studies show breastfeeding helps protect a baby against common illnesses such as diarrhea, ear infections, and pneumonia, as well as Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), juvenile diabetes and childhood cancers.
Mothers who breastfeed and return to work take fewer sick days for their children and are often happier with their work situation and are more productive.
Breastfeeding also helps protect women against breast and ovarian cancer, anemia and osteoporosis.
Questions and concerns often arise about breastfeeding.
- How do I know if my baby is getting enough milk?
- Is nipple pain normal?
- How can I coordinate breastfeeding with my work schedule?
- How long should I breastfeed my baby?
- Which pump is right for my needs?
The Lactation Center... is here to help you
The Lactation Center is committed to supporting women throughout their breastfeeding experience. Through education, counseling and support, as well as easy access to needed supplies, our goal is to help you ease into breastfeeding and parenting with confidence! Located in the pediatric section of Marin General Hospital right next to the Family Birthing Center we provide support and products in one location.
Lactation counseling and education
- Individual sessions are provided by a Certified Lactation Counselor to answer your questions and concerns and to give hands-on help in learning how to breastfeed. Available by appointment.
Drop in support groups
- Meet with other breastfeeding moms to share experiences and tips from experts on topics such as returning to work and sleeping through the night.
Telephone advice
- Access to a Certified Lactation Counselor for questions and guidance from the privacy of your home.
Book and video library
- Lending library with books and videos on topics from pregnancy to weaning your baby.
Mother and Baby Store BabyNook
Besides counseling and support services, the Lactation Center also includes the BabyNook where you can rent or purchase breastfeeding pumps or purchase infant products.
- Breast pump rental and sales We feature the most current equipment and products, including: Lactina Select© Ideal for returning to work or pumping at home. The same pump used at MGH. This comfortable, lightweight pump provides speed options for comfort. It is specially designed for double pumping, providing maximum milk production in half the pumping time.
- Pump In Style© (purchase only) This lightweight pump is stored in a black shoulder bag for portability. It is fully automatic for single or double-pumping and has a separate compartment for cold milk storage. It comes with four bottles, cooling packs, pumping equipment, car cigarette lighter adapter and milk storage bags. Optional battery power pack available for rent.
- Various hand-held pumps available
- Personally fitted nursing bras
- Nursing pillows
- Clothing designed for the nursing mother
- Baby clothing and baby care products
The Lactation Center Staff
Certified Lactation Counselors are available for consultation and support. Our experienced registered nurses have special training in lactation.
Who's Eligible
The Lactation Center is available to any Bay Area family. We welcome all nursing mothers, regardless of where they had their baby.
To contact The LactationCenter...
call (415) 925-7LAC for a consultation appointment.
Or, drop-in and visit the BabyNook.
Your generous contribution to Marin General Hospital helps us in providing a community-based approach to your health. Your tax-deductible contribution will be gratefully acknowledged.
For more information, go to: Making A Gift or send your donation to:
| Marin General Hospital Foundation P.O. Box 8010 San Rafael, CA 94912-8010 |