Choosing to breastfeed your baby will bring you an experience that you will always cherish.

Breastfeeding is a key component of your baby’s health. It is important, however, to learn correct breastfeeding techniques in order to gain the most benefit for you and your baby.

As a nationally certified Baby-Friendly hospital, our staff is committed to helping you connect with your baby while breastfeeding. We give families practical techniques and support when learning how to express milk directly from the breast or into a bottle using a breast pump.

On-Site Lactation Consultants

During your stay at Kootenai Health, lactation consultants will answer questions and assist with initiating breastfeeding. If you have difficulty breastfeeding, your physician can refer you for a formal consultation before or after discharge.

Lactation consultants are also available via phone to answer questions and provide advice about breastfeeding. To talk with one of them call (208) 625-5091.

How can a lactation consultant help?

Lactation consultants help prevent and manage difficulties in the following areas:

• Engorgement
• Sore nipples
• Sucking difficulties
• Promoting ample milk production
• Baby latching to the breast

The lactation consultant can also help families with infants who have special breastfeeding needs due to:

• Slow weight gain or failure to thrive
• Jaundice
• Multiple births (twins, triplets, etc.)
• Premature birth
• Separation of mother and baby due to illness or work
• Food intolerances and/or allergies
• Cleft lip and/or palate

For more information, please call one of our lactation consultants at (208) 625-5091.