Obstetrics/Maternity:
Lactation Station
One of the most important choices a new mother makes is how best to nourish her baby. Nurses, pediatricians and mothers all agree: breastfeeding is best for baby. The nutrients and antibodies in breast milk are essential for baby's development and health.
Even after attending a prenatal breastfeeding class, nursing a newborn is a learning experience for mothers. The compassionate, caring staff at Saint John's understands the emotions all new mothers may feel. For this reason, the Health Center has established the Lactation Station, a resource dedicated to helping all mothers--regardless of where they delivered*-- learn breastfeeding techniques and committed to providing support through the nursing process.
The Lactation Station offers:
- One-on-one appointments with a Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC)
- Breastfeeding support groups with IBCLC: Wednesdays and Fridays from noon to 1:00 p.m.**
- Breastfeeding education and support phone line: (310) 829-8944
- Breast pump rentals
- Supplies and equipment (i.e. nursing bras)
Individual Consultation
After delivery, Saint John's highly trained nurses or the Lactation Consultant will provide women with breastfeeding support. Mothers will learn their baby's proper feeding cues, proper positioning and latch-on techniques. Any issues arising from prematurity, prior breast surgery and pumping may also be addressed. This encouragement is reinforced through post-hospitalization visits and consultations.
Breastfeeding Support Group and Support Line
The Saint John's Lactation Station offers a free breastfeeding support group to new mothers. Mothers meet twice weekly, Wednesdays and Fridays from noon to 1:00 p.m., to share their breastfeeding experiences. The support group is supervised by a Saint John's IBCLC who assists mothers with any breastfeeding issues. Mothers may also want to discuss returning to work, pumping and the collection and storage of breast milk.
The Lactation Station additionally provides a breastfeeding support line for mothers to call if they have any questions. Breastfeeding education and support line: (310) 829-8944.
Supplies and Equipment Rentals
The Lactation Station offers a wide array of supplememntal accessories and supplies for breastfeeding mothers. To make life easier for new mothers who plan to pump their breast milk, the Lactation Station also provides rentals of electric breast pumps. Pumps can be rented on a daily or monthly basis. Various types and styles of pumps are also available for purchase.
*Mothers who deliver at Saint John's may utilize Lactation Station services for free of charge. For those women who have delivered elsewhere, there is a nominal fee.
**Subject to change