Patient Resources for Breastfeeding

Prenatal Resources

Review these websites to help you get ready (some may also be helpful to go back to after baby is born, or if you weren’t able to read them before baby came):

Learn about the importance of the “Sacred Hour” holding your baby skin-to-skin on your chest for the first hour after birth, and how this helps establish breastfeeding and transition your baby into the world: https://www.chihealth.com/en/services/maternity/labor-and-delivery/sacred-hour.html
 

Helpful websites and books

These may help answer many common breastfeeding concerns. Never hesitate to reach out to your BMC provider to ensure you don’t need clinical care to address issues as they come up. 

Websites

  • Physician Guide to Breastfeeding: From one of the leading clinical experts in breastfeeding medicine, Dr. Katrina Mitchell, this website has evidence-based information for families. 
  • ​​Kellymom: Excellent information on most topics related to breastfeeding, mother’s milk and pumping
  • La Leche League: Trusted source of information available in many languages

Books

  • The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding                                       
  • The Nursing Mother’s Companion                                
  • The Ultimate Breastfeeding Book of Answers
  • Nursing Mother, Working Mother
  • Breastfeeding Made Simple: 7 Natural Laws for Nursing Mothers

Where to get lactation help after baby is born

Please reach out to your BMC provider if you are looking for clinical support for breastfeeding/chestfeeding concerns. 

In addition, the following resources are available to help you find a skilled lactation specialist:  
Boston Breastfeeding Coalition Warmline (7 days /week, 9a-5p):  857-301-8259 or breastfeedingboston@gmail.com. Staffed by lactation specialists and peer counselors. Leave a message and someone will get back to you ASAP.

  • Vital Village virtual breastfeeding support groups                                                       
  • BMC Breastfeeding Warmline 617- 414-6455, response time usually 24-48 hours. Staffed by BMC lactation consultants.
  • La Leche League of Massachusetts/Rhode Island/Vermont local phone support in your area
  • WIC for eligible families- WIC peer counselors can help
  • For other support groups, lactation consultants and breastfeeding medicine specialists in our area: https://www.zipmilk.org

Parenting Help

Having a new child can be a stressful time. Your BMC providers are available to help if you are experiencing stress or difficulties taking care of yourself or your child, or just need someone to talk to. In addition, the following resources may be helpful: