What you’ve heard is right: support is a big component of a successful breastfeeding journey. If you already have your partner being your biggest cheerleader at home and baby’s older sibling handing you a breastfeeding pillow and blankets, chances are you’re off to great start.
However, there are times when professional help is needed. You may be alone with baby and have a million questions running through your mind. Is baby latching on correctly? Is baby feeding enough? Is it mastitis? For all those questions, and further assistance, drop-in breastfeeding clinics are a wonderful resource.
First of all, the ability to just drop in is a big plus. You can seek help where and when needed, whether that is a day or two (depending on how often the clinic is offered.)
Additionally, these drop-in clinics are led by different breastfeeding supporters including lactation consultants, counselors and advocates, all in a child-friendly setting. Breastfeeding benefits, latching techniques and minor issues are just some of the topics discussed.
Clinics are also perfect for connecting with other moms, solving breastfeeding issues, providing encouragement and, in some clinics, you can even do a weight check for baby.
If you still need further assistance for more complex breastfeeding issues, these clinics are also ideal places to refer you to the appropriate help.
As a breastfeeding mama and someone who’s been to a clinic, I can say that being surrounded by other breastfeeding moms, children and breastfeeding advocates was enough to give me a boost in my breastfeeding journey.
Thankfully, you too can feel like you’re not alone and solve the little problems you may have, all for the love of breastmilk.
Breastfeeding Drop-In Clinic at Family Picnic with Sue Gottschall, CLC or Rebecca Nguyen, CLC
When: Wednesday mornings by appointment.
Where: Family Picnic, LLC, 3717 N Ravenswood Avenue, Ste 219E Chicago, IL 60613
Cost: $40
More information: Family Picnic
The Mother’s Milk Company Drop-In Clinic at Peekaboo Playroom
When: First and third Thursdays of every month, 1-2:30 p.m.
Where: Peekaboo Playroom, 206 South Marion Street, Oak Park, IL 60302
Cost: $30
More information: The Mother’s Milk Company, Barbara@mothersmilkco.com
Drop-in Clinic at Sprout Chicago with
When: First and third Thursdays each month, 12:30-2:30 p.m.
Where: 1943 W. Division St, Chicago, IL 60622
Cost: Â $40
More information: Sprout
Drop-in Lactation Clinic with Juli Billings Walter, IBCLC
When: Every other Tuesday.
Where: Monica + Andy, 2038 North Halsted Street, Chicago, IL 60614
Cost: $40 check or cash.
More information: Monica+Andy
Milk & Cookies Community Breastfeeding Drop-in Clinic with Jean Helen Vondriska, MEd, IBCLC
When: Wednesdays from 1-2:30 p.m.
Where: Sod Room, 1454 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60605
Cost: $40
More information: Sod Room
