Breastfeeding support
Just because breastfeeding is ‘natural’ doesn’t mean it’s always easy—especially in the beginning. This is true for both first-time moms and seasoned ones. The good news is Corewell Health offers several resources to help you be successful in breastfeeding your baby.
With Baby-friendly® locations, we support mothers who want to breastfeed. The World Health Organization agrees that breastfeeding is the healthiest form of nutrition for babies. Breast milk builds a stronger immune system, healthier growth and lower chances of allergies, asthma and diabetes for your baby.
When you deliver your baby with us, our breastfeeding experts will help you understand the steps to a successful breastfeeding and bonding experience. The support starts with your bedside nurse while you're at the hospital, when you can easily ask questions and we're with you in your room. Each of our registered nurses has been trained to support mothers in this, and many are also certified breastfeeding counselors. If you have issues with breastfeeding that your nurse is not able to help you solve, she will partner with you and involve our team of lactation consultants or lactation peer counselors.
And we're still here for you after you go home. Answers to your breastfeeding questions are never more than a secure video chat away.
Features of breastfeeding services
Breastfeeding classes
Led by a certified lactation counselor or consultant, these classes help you learn practical tips ahead of time to prepare for successful breastfeeding.
Outpatient lactation services
To schedule an appointment with a lactation consultant, call the warm line at 616.391.9437. There may be a fee for this appointment, depending on your insurance coverage.
Breastfeeding success plan
Before you and your baby leave the hospital, your nurses will help you with a breastfeeding success plan. Our nurses are specially trained in newborn breastfeeding and can help you get started on a successful, personalized plan for at home.
Warm line for phone questions
After your hospital stay, we're still just a phone call away. For help over the phone, call our warm line at 616.391.9437 to talk with one of our breastfeeding experts.
Breastfeeding support groups
Join other moms and babies and gain confidence in this free support group led by lactation consultant. No registration is required. Click the link below to see times and locations. Call 616.391.5000 if you have questions or for more information.
Video chat with lactation expert
Get free breastfeeding support and coaching with a lactation expert using a secure video connection. Call our lactation warm line at 616.391.9437 to schedule an appointment. This service is available Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm.