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Lactation Services

For expecting and new mothers who choose to breastfeed, UPMC Hamot has a board-certified lactation consultant and breastfeeding counselors to provide breastfeeding education and support as well as guidance in purchasing top-quality equipment.

After returning home, new questions and concerns about breastfeeding often arise, including:
• Soreness
• Milk supply
• Infant weight gain
• Returning to work

One-on-one, outpatient lactation appointments can be scheduled through our lactation consultants by calling 814-877-6722.  

There is a flat-fee of $25 for outpatient lactation appointments. Some health insurance policies cover the cost of these consultations. Please check with your provider if you have questions about your coverage and reimbursement process.

Additionally, the UPMC Hamot Health Connection offers group support for breastfeeding mothers:  Boosting Breastfeeding Success is for mothers who have babies under three weeks old.  This group consultation includes a review of latching – which is key to successful breastfeeding – measuring your baby’s weight gain, and provides simple tips to encourage a positive breastfeeding experience.  This free meeting is offered every other Friday at 10 a.m. for mom and baby.  We do request you register by calling 814-877-6722.

Ongoing breastfeeding support group meetings are also available every first Thursday of the month for women who are breastfeeding and their babies. These meetings are held in UPMC Hamot Women’s Hospital from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.  We do request you register by calling 814-877-6722. Pregnant women are welcome to

We also offer, Calm Lines, a 24/7 hotline support to new mothers who need quick answers or helpful suggestions. Please call 814-877-6722 during the day and 814-877-8400 in the evening and overnight.

Our lactation consultants can also provide you with information about UPMC Hamot breast pump rentals, and can guide you through our selection of breast pumps, lactation apparel and other breastfeeding supplies offered in Cherish Boutique, located on the first floor of the Women’s Hospital.

Educational Breastfeeding Links:
Plugged Milk Ducts
Milk Expression Techniques
 

Breastfeeding Tips

Breastfeeding Babies and Beginning Solids

Just around the time that you are feeling like “Super Mom” with your beautiful breastfed baby, someone may throw you a curve ball like, “When are you going to feed that baby food?”

Around four months or so, many babies start to look very round and they are very active.  Babies of this age can get distracted very easily, and they only feed for very short periods of time.  Sometimes parents and “well-meaning” bystanders might convince you that your baby is gaining too much weight on your milk or is not interested in breastfeeding and wants “real” food.  Everyone seems to want to try to feed a cute little baby.

The fact is that breastfed babies do not need anything but their mother’s milk for about six months.  Introducing complementary foods too early can contribute to allergies and food intolerances in your baby for a lifetime.  Breastfeeding babies also do not need any water or any other fluids during this time.  Giving water can cause serious illness to your baby and should be avoided.

Around six months you should notice that your baby is showing signs of “solids” readiness.  The baby will lose his/her tongue thrusting movements when something touches the lips.  Baby can sit up unassisted for short periods of time and up hold his/her head.  Sometimes infants also start reaching for adult food showing signs for readiness for solids.

Getting good books and asking baby’s doctor for recommendations can start you on a path to a fun journey exploring new foods with your baby.

For more guidance, call UPMC Hamot Certified Lactation Consultants, Jan or Karen at 814-877-6722. 

View the Breastfeeding Tips Archive.