Breastfeeding and Lactation Program
If your baby is hospitalized, providing human milk (also called nursing) is one important thing you can do to help them. It is one of the most important roles you have as a new parent. Even if you have never considered nursing in the past, the lactation team at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) can help you at least begin pumping milk for your infant. Studies have found that human milk can really help babies, especially those born with birth defects and those recovering from surgery. Your milk is important for your baby because it is both food and medicine. It has special ingredients that keep your baby safe from getting sick and help your baby grow.
How we serve you
In addition to the programs and services listed here, there are many supportive resources to help you achieve your goals to provide human milk to your baby.
All about breastfeeding
Why choose CHOP for breastfeeding and lactation support
We offer International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) to support your need to begin pumping human milk for your infant.
Meet your team
Here at CHOP, our lactation team includes experts who are certified lactation consultants, as well as nurses who are trained to support you in providing human milk to your baby.
Our research
We have led many research studies and have found that human milk makes a difference — especially for babies born with birth defects and those recovering from surgery.
Breastfeeding and lactation resources
We have created resources to help you find answers to your questions, deal with some of the most common nursing issues and navigate the challenges of providing human milk for a baby with special needs.
Patient stories
Your donation changes lives
A gift of any size helps us make lifesaving breakthroughs for children everywhere.
