Breastfeeding Services

Breastfeeding is the most nutritious option for your baby, but it’s normal to need a little help learning this new skill. That’s why our Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLC) at Elkhart General and Memorial Hospital are here to help women navigate through the world of breastfeeding.

Lactation Consultants

Our lactation consultants and nursing staff offer education and support while teaching a variety of skills such as positioning and latching.

Once baby has arrived, your baby will be placed skin-to-skin on your chest immediately after delivery and will remain there until the first feeding is accomplished. During your stay, our lactation consultants and nurses will provide individualized instruction to make breastfeeding a successful and rewarding experience.

Lactation consultants are available seven days a week for inpatients, and we can continue to provide help even after you leave the hospital via follow-up phone consultations or outpatient office appointments.

We also offer additional services including pump rentals, supplies for purchase and free prenatal breastfeeding classes.

Breastfeeding Support Groups

At Elkhart General, we offer Motherhood and More, a breastfeeding clinic and support group. This is available for mothers to share their breastfeeding experiences with others. We meet every Tuesday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Elkhart Health and Aquatics Center, located at 200 E. Jackson Blvd., Elkhart IN, 46514.

For a complete list of classes and services offered at Elkhart General Hospital, visit our page.

At Memorial, we invite moms to bring their babies to our Nursing Nook, a breastfeeding support group and weight check clinic for new moms. We meet on Thursdays from 11:00 to 1:00. We will be able to address any breastfeeding needs at this time. We are following the recommended COVID-19 guidelines so please remember to practice social distancing and wear a mask. No siblings are permitted. If more time is needed to assist you with breastfeeding, we will work with you to schedule a 1 on 1 visit, ideally after the weight check clinic. We meet at the Leighton Center, located at 534 North Michigan St., South Bend, IN 46601. Please enter from the doors on the south side where a lactation consultant will greet you. Contact us at 574.647.3475 with any questions.

For a complete list of classes and services offered at Memorial Hospital, visit our childbirth classes page.

New moms from Bremen Hospital are invited and encouraged to attend classes and use services at either location.

Alternatives to Breastfeeding

For other feeding concerns or questions, please contact your baby’s healthcare provider.