Learning a new skill
Evidence shows that breastfeeding is one of the most important things you can do for your newborn. Research has proven that children who are breastfed have lower risk of disease and overall improved health outcomes.
Even though breastfeeding is the best option for you and your baby, it’s not uncommon to need a little help learning how to master this important skill. Our breastfeeding experts at Elkhart General Hospital and Memorial Hospital of South Bend, help women learn how to breastfeed and handle the needs of their new infant. A team of International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCL) and other trained lactation experts are available to support families.
Breastfeeding support personalized for you and your baby
Your care team supports you during and after your pregnancy with one-on-one consultations, breastfeeding classes and support groups. Support for families addresses the physical and emotional changes that come with parenthood and a newborn. In classes, participants learn more about things like feeding techniques and positions. During your consultation or class, you will receive guidance for common breastfeeding concerns, including:
- Difficulty latching
- Low milk production
- Oversupply of milk
- Poor weight gain
- Soreness
If your baby arrives early or needs more care, lactation consultants work with nurses in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) to help support you and your baby. Assistance may include developing pumping schedules for babies who cannot yet breastfeed. Care teams can also connect you with additional resources such as pre-approved donors, if you are unable to provide milk for any reason. We are committed to delivering specialized and personalized care for you and your growing family.
Breastfeeding services
Prenatal breastfeeding classes:
Breastfeeding classes are taught by the lactation consultants. Learn the keys to breastfeeding success such as tips for positioning and latching, recognizing feeding cues, how to know your baby is getting enough milk, and much more. Your questions will be answered and you will gain confidence as you begin this journey. Your partner is encouraged and welcome to attend. All breastfeeding classes are free.
Inpatient services:
Beacon is proud to have Baby-Friendly USA designated birth facilities. This initiative is a global program promoting best practices for infant feeding and parent/newborn bonding. Elkhart General Hospital, Memorial Hospital of South Bend and Beacon Kalamazoo have been awarded this designation.
Lactation consultants and nursing staff provide education and support while teaching a variety of skills in learning to feed your baby. Immediately after delivery, your baby will be placed skin-to-skin on your chest. Skin-to-skin care helps support a healthy transition from inside to outside life for your baby. Your baby will remain on your chest until after the first feeding is completed. You will receive the help and support you need throughout your hospital stay.
Outpatient services:
Following your discharge, you may find you need additional support. Lactation consultants continue to be available after you leave the hospital via follow-up phone consultations, support groups, and outpatient office appointments.
- By phone—You will receive a follow-up phone call from an IBCLC soon after you and your baby go home. You may also call the lactation office at any time with questions or concerns.
- Motherhood and More: Breastfeeding Support Group. This lactation support group is for any mother and meets at two locations. You may choose the location most convenient to you. We do infant weight checks, answer questions, and address breastfeeding needs during this open forum. This is a free service.
- Elkhart General Hospital – Motherhood and More at Elkhart General Hospital meets every Tuesday from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Elkhart Health and Aquatics Center, 200 E. Jackson Blvd., Elkhart IN, 46514. Contact us at (574) 389-4886 with any questions.
- Memorial Hospital of South Bend – Motherhood and More at Memorial Hospital of South Bend, meets on Thursdays from 10a.m. to noon. You can join us at Beacon Employee Health at Leighton Center, 534 N. Michigan St., South Bend, IN, 46601. Contact us at (574) 647-3475 with any questions.
- Outpatient consultation—If you would prefer to meet privately with a lactation consultant, we are available to schedule a one-on-one visit with you and your baby.
Beacon also offers additional services including pump rentals and supplies for purchase.
Please feel free to contact us about any of the above services. Elkhart General Hospital: (574) 389-4886. Memorial Hospital of South Bend: (574) 647-3475.
*IBCLCs are board-certified healthcare professionals who specialize in the clinical management of lactation. IBCLC is the gold standard for lactation credentials.
More resources
For other feeding concerns or questions, please contact your baby’s healthcare provider. For guidance on breastfeeding, life after delivery and more, download our helpful guide You and Your Baby! (versión en español)
Events
Loading view.
Beacon has Baby-Friendly USA designated birth facilities. This initiative is a global program that promotes best practices for infant feeding. Elkhart General Hospital, Memorial Hospital of South Bend and Beacon Kalamazoo have been awarded this designation.