The Lactation Department at The Family Birth Place is a comprehensive hub
for breastfeeding moms and babies in our community. Our lactation consultants
are experienced nurses with certification from the International Board
of Certified Lactation Consultants.
Ask the Experts: Breastfeeding
Inpatient Lactation Services
Breastfeeding is a wonderful way for new mothers to nurture their baby’s
growth and development. Most mothers can successfully breastfeed, and
our team is here to help.
While you and your baby are patients at either Mary Washington or Stafford
Hospital, our dedicated team of nurses and certified lactation consultants
offer breastfeeding guidance and consultations. Our consultants are available
daily to provide personalized support, ensuring you and your baby have
a positive start to breastfeeding.
No matter which unit you're in within our hospitals, we can provide lactation
services for both mothers and babies.
To boost your confidence as you embark on this journey, we recommend attending
our complimentary
Breastfeeding Essentials class before your baby's arrival. This class will provide valuable insights and tips.
Breastfeeding Support Once You're Home
Breastfeeding is a natural process, but it's okay to seek help if you're
facing challenges. Even experienced moms can encounter new issues. If
you're worried about milk production, your baby's weight, or pumping problems,
we're here for you. Our personal consultations, including you and your
baby, can address these concerns.
While some issues can be resolved over the phone, others require an in-person
visit. We welcome you and your baby to meet with our certified lactation
consultants. They'll provide tailored advice, tips, and tools to make
breastfeeding more comfortable for both of you.
Here's what you need to know about our outpatient consultations at Mary
Washington Hospital:
Schedule a consultation when your baby is ready to feed, but not too hungry.
We have a scale to measure your baby's weight before and after feeding,
ensuring they're getting enough milk.
Consultations typically last 1 to 1.5 hours. Please allow an extra 20-30
minutes for check-in at the Patient Access Office.
Many insurance plans cover most outpatient consultations. Contact your
insurance provider to confirm your coverage. Self-pay options are available
if you're not insured.
Getting in Touch with Our Breastfeeding Experts
To speak with a lactation consultant and schedule a consultation, please
call the MWHC Lactation Services Department at 540.741.4465.* If a lactation consultant isn't available to chat right away, you can
expect a call back by the following business day. For urgent breastfeeding
concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to the MWHC Health Link Nurse Advice Line at
540.741.1000.
*You’re welcome to use these services even if you haven’t given
birth at our hospitals.
Breast Pumps
Choosing the Right Pump
When buying a breast pump, consider your needs. If you’re a full-time
working mom, a double electric pump is your best bet. For occasional pumping
as an at-home mom, a single electric or manual pump could work well. You
can find various online resources the compares different brands and their uses.
Breastfeeding Class
Join our
Breastfeeding Essentials class, a FREE 2.5-hour session designed for both moms and dads. This class
covers the fundamentals of breastfeeding your newborn. Equipping yourself
with knowledge will boost your confidence as you start this journey. We'll
also dive into topics like pumps, when to begin pumping, storing milk,
and managing work and breastfeeding. Certified Lactation Consultants lead
the classes. Attending before your delivery will help you feel more prepared
to breastfeed your baby right from the beginning.
Explore our
Childbirth and Parenting Calendar to discover the perfect class for your needs. For pricing and registration,
contact MWHC Health Link between Monday and Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
540.741.1404.
Moms and Babies Groups
Calling all new moms and their babies up to six months old! This is a wonderful
opportunity to connect with fellow new moms. There is no fee, and no need
to register. A baby scale is on hand for weighing, and a nurse who is
also a lactation consultant will be present to answer questions and to
guide the group discussion. To create a cozy space for our moms, we kindly
ask that dads sit this one out, but grandmas are more than welcome.
It doesn’t matter if you’re breastfeeding, combining feeds,
or using formula – all moms and their babies are welcome.
Grab our
Breastfeeding Guide created by the MWHC Lactation Services Department. It’s packed with
helpful tips and resources to kickstart your breastfeeding journey.
Our lactation consultant at Stafford Hospital condensed the Breastfeeding
Essentials class into a few short videos that you can view to help refresh
on tips for a great breastfeeding experience.
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