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Breastfeeding Support

Mother breastfeeding newborn

Breast Feeding Support Center Office Number 315-448-5323

St. Joseph’s Hospital Health was the third hospital in New York State to earn the Baby-Friendly Hospital designation in 2009. This recognition—awarded by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF—celebrates our commitment to supporting breastfeeding families and pregnant people. Only about 20% of U.S. hospitals hold this designation, and we’re proud to be among them.

Our Lactation Program at St Joseph's Hospital offers comprehensive breastfeeding/lactation support for many types of feeding plans. We are here to support a happy, healthy, and lasting feeding experience for parents and babies. You will get the information and help you need to make your own choices about feeding your baby. Your choice will be supported. All our staff have received extra training to help you with feeding your baby.

Prenatal Support: Prepare with Confidence

Our online prenatal classes are taught by expert educators and feature the most current, medically accurate information. 

Lean more about Childbirth Classes

Ask your doctor or midwife for your free copy of Your Guide to Pregnancy, Birth, and Parenting—a great resource for your journey.

Schedule a prenatal lactation phone consultation with one of our certified lactation consultants. Call us at 315-448-5323.

Breastfeeding Support in the Hospital

From the very first moments after birth, we’re here to support you and your baby.

  • Breastfeeding begins early, with skin-to-skin immediately after birth.
  • Rooming-in gives you time to learn your baby’s feeding cues and bond.
  • Our International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) visit you daily to provide:
    • Feeding assessments
    • Personalized feeding plans
    • Breast pump guidance and flage sizing
    • Help with engorgement, latch, pain, and mastitis prevention

Support in the NICU

If your baby needs extra care, our Level III NICU offers specialized lactation support. A personalized feeding plan will be created based on your baby’s needs. Our goal is to help you establish and maintain your milk supply and prepare for successful breastfeeding.

Support After Discharge

Support After Discharge: Call 315-448-5323 to schedule a visit or learn more.

Our support doesn’t end when you leave the hospital.

  • We offer a follow up telephone visit for every family.
  • Call our Breastfeeding Support Center Warm Line anytime with questions or concerns.
  • Schedule an in-person outpatient visit with an IBCLC to address:
    • Latch or positioning issues
    • Feeding pain or discomfort
    • Engorgement management
    • Baby’s weight gain or milk intake concerns

Resources:

CNYBF community resource guide
Breastfeeding Information - A to Z - La Leche League International
Droplet
Flange fits Guide
Handouts Archive - IABLE - The Institute for Breastfeeding and Lactation Education (IABLE)
Medical Supply Companies for Breast pumps
Natural Breastfeeding - Love to Love Breastfeeding