New parents often expect breastfeeding to be a natural and effortless process. The reality, however, is that more than 70% of moms need assistance and support with breastfeeding and lactation. Changing hormones, sleep deprivation, an aching body and adjustment to a brand new life can already feel like a slap in the face. When difficulties with feeding a newborn also arise, it can feel like an overwhelming blow.
Take note of the following lactation and breastfeeding resources in Kansas City ready to help moms and babies in every aspect of feeding.
Peachy Births: Doula and Lactation Services, LLC
Peachy Births: Doula and Lactation Services, LLC provides comprehensive, competent, inclusive support to families and individuals throughout their journey to parenting. Prenatal birth and lactation education to help you prepare for labor and the first moments, lactation support to help you through those postpartum days.
You may qualify for insurance covered lactation services through Aetna, United, Tricare or Kansas/Missouri Medicaid. Find out more by visiting peachybirths.com, emailing [email protected] or texting 913-703-3252.
Lactation and Breastfeeding Resources in Kansas City
Lactation Consultants and Clinics
Advent Health Shawnee Mission has a hotline with board certified lactation consultants ready to help seven days a week. They also provide an outpatient clinic and a breastfeeding support group that meets weekly and can help with any problems that arise.
Children’s Mercy has a team of dedicated lactation specialists and certified nurses on call to provide advice on postpartum breastfeeding and pumping. Their website also has a wealth of information that can walk you through different situations and scenarios before you call a nurse.
Every feeding journey, and Good Life Lactation will address your concerns with compassion and expertise. They help to create a sustainable feeding plan and prioritize your goals as a family. Their goal is to aid in everything from prenatal education all the way through weaning.
HCA Midwest Health’s hospitals offer Lactation Support Groups on a weekly basis. Search their site for the location nearest you. Groups are free and open to the public.
Their approach is to find positive feeding solutions that balances infant nutrition with family mental health. They tackle a multitude of different issues that may arise and help overcome them with one-on-one training or group support.
Get the support you need from other new moms and certified lactation consultants every Tuesday at North Kansas City Hospital. This free group is open to anyone in the community, not just NKCH patients.
Nurture Lactation can provide clinic, in-home or virtual visits to help with any feeding issues you may be experiencing. They pride themselves in evidence-based consultations that will help both parents and baby do what’s best for their family dynamic and lifestyle. Clinics can be found in both Lee’s Summit and Liberty.
Peachy Births Lactation tackles simple or complex issues including latch and positioning, pumping and bottle feeding or supply concerns. All consults include a customizable, unique care plan to help you manage any recommendations given. They can also help with lactation induction for those with a variety of different needs when first becoming a parent.
Are you struggling with feeding your baby – breastfeeding, pumping, bottles, formula, solids or a combination? The Mama Coach connects you with registered nurses, nures practitioners and lactation consultants to help.
University Health provides lactation support as part of its women’s health services. They offer breastfeeding classes prior to baby’s arrival, one-on-one consultations and follow-up care. Their “Terrific Mom Club” meets at their Lakewood location every Thursday to assist with issues and to receive support from professionals and other moms in the community.
Breastfeeding Support Groups
Kansas Breastfeeding Collaborative
This local initiative connects breastfeeding moms to resources, support groups and advocacy opportunities. Check their website or social media for upcoming events and workshops.
La Leche League of Greater Kansas City
This globally recognized organization hosts regular meetings throughout the Kansas City area. Their goal is to provide a safe and welcoming environment for moms to share experiences, ask questions and receive encouragement from both leaders and peers. Look to them for mother-to-mother breastfeeding support groups, as well as online and phone support.
Breastfeeding Supplies and Rentals
Advanced Medical Solutions carries popular breast pump brands, the most recent technology and a variety of maternity support products to help you as your family grows. Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, many of their pumps are fully covered by insurance.
Elite Medical Innovations can help to expedite a breast pump to you once your baby is born. They contact your insurance company, and will even deliver your order within a few days!
Medela Rentals at Local Pharmacies
Several pharmacies, such as CVS and Walgreens offer hospital-grade breast pump rentals. This is an excellent option for moms needing a temporary solution.
Online Resources and Helplines
The National Breastfeeding Helpline (1-800-994-9662) is available to answer questions and provide guidance any time you are in need.
Kansas WIC Breastfeeding Support
The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program offers free breastfeeding support to eligible families, including access to peer counselors and educational materials.
The Missouri WIC program provides supplemental food, health care referrals, nutrition education and breastfeeding promotion and support to eligible pregnant, breastfeeding and postpartum women, infants and children up to age five.
While not Kansas City-specific, this online resource is highly recommended by local lactation consultants for its evidence-based breastfeeding tips.
Breastfeeding Supplies to Aid in Comfort for Mom and Baby
New moms should consider having these supplies on hand before baby’s arrival:
- A comfortable chair and nursing pillow
- Lanolin cream for sore or cracked nipples
- Shirts, bras and pjs with nursing panels
- A large water bottle (the thirst breastfeeding moms experience is out of this world!)
Breastfeeding is a personal decision and a journey best traveled with support. Kansas City’s robust network of lactation consultants, support groups and breastfeeding-friendly spaces ensures you have access to the help and encouragement you need. Take advantage of these resources and remember, you are doing a great job!
