Breastfeeding and Pumping Support

However you choose to feed your baby, we're here to support you. Our breastfeeding and pumping support services are designed to help answer your questions, navigate challenges and build confidence so you can focus on caring for your baby.

Breastfeeding Support at OSF HealthCare

Wherever you are in your feeding journey, OSF HealthCare offers breastfeeding support to help you feel more confident and supported along the way. Services include:

Certified lactation experts: Personalized breastfeeding and pumping support from trained lactation experts.
Free lactation support after an OSF delivery: If you deliver at OSF, you can enroll in the OSF OnCall pregnancy and postpartum support program which includes lactation services at no cost for the first six weeks after birth.
Virtual and in-person care: Lactation support is available in-person at multiple locations, or virtual visits available anywhere in Illinois or Michigan.
24/7 breastfeeding support: Get help by phone anytime you have breastfeeding questions or concerns with clinical support available around the clock.
Timely appointments: Virtual visits are typically available within one to two days, with some same-day appointments available for urgent concerns.
Support during pregnancy and postpartum: Breastfeeding and lactation support is available during pregnancy and throughout your breastfeeding journey, with as many appointments as needed.
Lactation support after loss: Compassionate lactation support is also available following pregnancy or infant loss.

Choose How to Access Lactation Support

Every breastfeeding journey is different, and questions can come up at any time. Whether you need support right away, prefer to connect from home or would benefit from hands-on help, you have options. Choose the type of lactation support that works best for you and your baby.

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24/7 Lactation Phone Line

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Virtual Visits

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In-Person Visits

For concerns that benefit from hands-on support or a closer look at feeding, an in-person visit may be the best option. Your lactation specialist can observe you and your baby during a feeding, assess positioning and latch and provide hands-on guidance tailored to your needs. In-person lactation support is available at multiple locations across Illinois and Michigan, so you can choose the location that works best for you and your family.

Call OSF OnCall at (844) 381-3603.

Find a Location Near You

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Already Delivered Your Baby at OSF HealthCare

Who can schedule a lactation visit?

Lactation support is available to anyone in Illinois or Michigan who is breastfeeding, pumping or preparing to. New, existing and non-OSF patients can schedule a visit, with no referral needed.

Lactation care is also available following pregnancy loss after 20 weeks or infant loss, including guidance on safely donating breast milk or drying up milk.

Whether you're preparing to breastfeed, working through a new concern or adjusting to a change in your routine, our lactation team can help.

Feeding and Latch

Getting a comfortable, effective latch can take practice. Our team can help you and your baby work through common feeding and latch concerns, including:

Latching difficulties
Tongue-tie concerns
Spitting up
Feeding assessments (in-person visits only)

Milk Supply or Breast/Nipple Pain

Changes in your milk supply or breast comfort can be frustrating, especially when you're not sure what's normal. Get guidance for common concerns before and during your breastfeeding journey, including:

Breastfeeding preparation during pregnancy
Low milk supply or oversupply
Breast or nipple pain
Engorgement or clogged ducts
Mastitis questions

Pumping or Returning to Work

Whether you're exclusively pumping, adding pumping to your routine or preparing to return to work, support can help you find a rhythm that works for you and your baby. We can help with:

Breast pump questions
Pumping schedules
Milk storage
Returning to work while breastfeeding

Baby’s Growth and Feeding

Feeding can look different from baby to baby. Our team can help you navigate questions about your baby's growth, weight gain and feeding plan, including:

Newborn weight gain concerns
Supplementing with formula
Weighted feeds (in-person visits only)

Special Feeding Situations

Some feeding journeys come with unique considerations. Our lactation team can provide personalized support for families navigating special situations, including:

Twins or multiples
Premature babies
Transitioning home from the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)

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Lactation After a Loss

After a pregnancy or infant loss, changes in your body can bring an added layer of uncertainty. Our lactation team provides compassionate support, including help with what to expect when your breast milk comes in, finding a place to donate breast milk or guidance on drying up your milk.

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Do I need a referral to schedule a lactation visit?

A referral is not needed to schedule a lactation visit. Simply call the OSF OnCall lactation phone line to get started.

Can I access services if I didn't deliver at OSF?

Yes. Lactation support is available to anyone in Illinois or Michigan who is breastfeeding or preparing to breastfeed, whether or not you delivered at an OSF HealthCare location.

What happens during a virtual lactation appointment?

Your visit is personalized to you, your baby and your needs. Your lactation specialist will talk through your questions and concerns and provide guidance based on what you're experiencing. Some assessments, such as feeding assessments, require an in-person visit.

How soon can I get an appointment?

We know breastfeeding concerns can feel urgent. Virtual appointments are typically available within one to two days, with some same-day appointments available for urgent concerns.

Is breastfeeding support covered by insurance?

Coverage for lactation visits varies by insurance plan. Contact your insurance company to confirm your benefits and any expected out-of-pocket costs. There is no additional charge for including multiple babies in a consultation, such as twins or triplets.

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Whether you're preparing to breastfeed, working through a new concern or adjusting to a change in your routine, our lactation team can help.