Breastfeeding & Lactation Support

Augusta University Women's Health supports the idea that every family should decide how they would like to feed their child. We offer evidence-based education to all families so that they can make the best choices for themselves and their babies. If they decide to breastfeed, our team is here to provide guidance, compassion, and support, our team includes:

• Licensed IBCLCs (International board-certified lactation consultants)
• Certified lactation counselors (CLCs)
• Nurse champions for the Georgia 5-STAR Hospital Initiative

Support for you and your baby

Our lactation consultants will provide as much or as little help as you need. We do this through bedside consultations and outpatient follow-up support that can include:

• In-person meetings
• Phone calls
• Virtual telehealth lactation consultations

Before your baby is born

We are available to talk with you at any time during your pregnancy. You can ask questions and get all the information you need as you consider breastfeeding. 

• Breastfeeding Information Sessions
  The Southeastern United States has one of the lowest rates of breastfeeding mothers in the nation. We want to change that! AU Health's lactation consultants offer information sessions twice a month to anyone who wants to find out more about the benefits of breastfeeding. Breastfeeding = Health!

• When are the Breastfeeding Information Sessions?
  - the first Saturday of the month (10 am-11am) and
  - the third Thursday of the month (7pm -8 pm)

• How do I register for a Breastfeeding Information Session?
  Register here (select "Breastfeeding for new and expecting mothers", click search, find a Breastfeeding Information Session, and ENROLL).

At the hospital

Nurses at AUMC are trained to help get you started with breastfeeding. At any point during your stay you can ask them to call in a lactation consultant.

We provide NICU lactation consultations

Breast milk offers many benefits to premature (preemies) and sick babies.  When a child is born too early, or with underlying health problems, they may not be able to breastfeed right away. In these situations, our lactation specialists can assist you with establishing your milk supply so that you can provide life-saving nourishment to your baby. 

After you go home

We'll follow up with you to see how breastfeeding is going and see if you have any concerns or questions.  Remember, you can always contact us after leaving the hospital at 706-721-8283 or lactation@augusta.edu to set up a phone call or telehealth visit.

We know sometimes breastfeeding might seem difficult, but don't give up! Our lactation specialists can help you with any problems that might arise and get you back on track. 

• Teresa McCullen, IBCLC - licensed lactation consultant
• Linda Talledo, BSN, CLC, NCIV
• Semone Williams BA, CLC, IBCLC - licensed lactation consultant

Website resources for mothers:

• American Academy of Pediatrics: Children's health guidelines and resources.
• BFAR.org: Information about breastfeeding after breast and nipple surgeries.
• Droplet: Successful breastfeeding - first milk matters most.
• International Lactation Consultants Association (ILCA): Find internationally certified lactation consultants.
• La Leche League: Breastfeeding information and local support groups.
• MommyMeds:  Safety information on breastfeeding and medications.
• Office on Women’s Health: Federal government's resources for women's health issues.
• Paced bottle feeding video: How to keep your baby interested in breastfeeding even when bottle feeding.
• Postpartum Support International: Postpartum depression support groups and helpline.
• Skin-to-Skin Contact: First Hour of Life (Golden Hour) & Beyond
• WIC (Women, Infants, and Children): Federal agency supporting early childhood nutrition.