Grand River Hospital - Breastfeeding support services

What is breastfeeding support services?
Breastfeeding support services (BFSS) is our hospital-based breastfeeding clinic. Our international board certified lactation consultants (IBCLCs) work closely with care teams to help patients reach their breastfeeding goals. Our goal is to nurture the natural and healthy breastfeeding relationship between mother and baby, and work hand-in-hand with physicians, midwives, nurses and public health nurses to ensure the best possible start in life for newborns and their families.

We provide breastfeeding consultation and expertise to women while they are in the hospital and those who have been discharged, up to the first month of their baby’s life.

BFSS operates seven days a week, with the exception of Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. We are located on the hospital’s main floor just inside the main entrance to the right of the volunteer desk in 3A.

Grand River Hospital is proud to have achieved designation as a baby-friendly hospital in November 2008.

The baby-friendly hospital initiative is a global effort launched by the World Health Organization and UNICEF to implement practices that protect, promote and support breastfeeding. It involves the collaboration of all hospital disciplines and departments, the implementation of 10 steps, and a rigorous external assessment process.

How can I learn more about breastfeeding before I have my baby?
Grand River Hospital is pleased to offer a prenatal breastfeeding class. Breastfeeding basics is a two-hour workshop for expectant parents offered on the first Wednesday of each month from 7 to 9 pm.

Taught by our international board certified lactation consultants, this class prepares parents for what to expect in the early days of breastfeeding, how to latch and position the baby at the breast, how to tell that baby is getting milk, how to identify problems and what to do if help is needed. The cost is $25 per couple. To register please call, 519-749-4300, ext. 2793.

What breastfeeding support is available when I am in the hospital?
It is not uncommon to need some initial support with breastfeeding. Many clients experience early challenges and our nursing staff and international board certified lactation consultants are available to provide support and help with breastfeeding during your hospital stay. Twice a day there are group breastfeeding sessions for all new mothers. Your nurse, midwife or doctor may access an international board certified lactation consultant on your behalf so that she may visit you and consult on your specific challenges.

What help is available after discharge?
It is also common to continue to need some breastfeeding support after going home with your baby. If you delivered your baby at Grand River Hospital, breastfeeding support services is able to provide telephone support and clinic appointments for clients with babies under one month of age.

You may have a follow-up appointment booked for you when you are discharged from hospital or you may call to book your own appointment.

For telephone support or questions or to book an appointment call 519-749-4355. Please leave a message and a lactation consultant will return your call.

Helpful resources
Region of Waterloo Public Health-breastfeeding: This site offers support and information about other community breastfeeding supports and services.

Grand River Hospital’s Retail Pharmacy offers quality breast pumps for purchase and/or rent.

Ticket to health for breastfeeding babies