Lactation Program
Breastfeeding gives your baby the best possible nutritional start, but new moms often have questions and concerns about it. The Cedars-Sinai Lactation Program and breastfeeding resources can help any mom be more confident and overcome nursing problems, even if you’ve had difficulty before.
Before Delivery: Learn About Breastfeeding
Trying to decide whether to breastfeed or bottle-feed? We encourage you and your partner to attend a short class explaining what to expect the first days after your baby's birth. This can help reduce anxiety about feeding your baby and other issues. To register, visit our Childbirth and Parenting Education Classes page.
After Delivery: How You’ll Get Help
Your baby has arrived and you're resting comfortably in our Mother/Baby Unit. Now, you'll meet with your postpartum nurse, who will show you breastfeeding basics and answer questions. You’ll also receive written guidelines on breastfeeding during your baby's first 4 days, along with a log book to track your baby's feeds.
If Problems Arise: Where to Get Support
Breastfeeding can be challenging for some moms. If you have breastfeeding questions, please visit or call the Lactation Center at 310-423-5312.
The center is located on the third floor of the North Tower in the Mother/Baby Unit. It includes a breastfeeding store that's open six days a week, and offers a variety of services:
- Information on what to expect during breastfeeding
- Nursing bra fittings, rentals of hospital-grade pump and breastfeeding supplies available for purchase
- Advice about the best breastfeeding products for you
Back Home: Help Is Still Available
If you have nursing questions after taking your baby home, here's how to get help:
- Call the Cedars-Sinai 24-hour Breastfeeding Information Warmline at 800-972-6003 or 310-423-2599. Listen to pre-recorded messages about early feedings, breast-milk supply, how to use a breast pump, the collection and storage of breast milk and other topics.
- Call the Lactation Center at 310-423-5312 to speak with a certified lactation educator or board-certified lactation consultant. You also can order additional breastfeeding supplies.
If you have any medical concerns about your baby or yourself, contact your pediatrician or obstetrician.
Additional Lactation Resources
- International Lactation Consultant Association
- La Leche League International
- LowMilkSupply.org (Note: Please talk with a lactation consultant if low milk supply is a problem for you)
- United States Breastfeeding Committee