The Benefits of Support Groups

Milford Regional Medical Center is known for its outstanding maternity care. Many breastfeeding-friendly and maternity care best practices such as skin-to-skin and rooming-in have been part of our care for quite some time. But our commitment and dedication to new families doesn’t end when they go home.

Milford Regional’s commitment to supporting breastfeeding mothers, babies, and their families is strong. A 2002 study conducted in Canada showed that mothers who participated in a peer support group and had telephone based support were more likely to be breastfeeding at 3 months post-partum.

Here at Milford Regional, our Lactation Warmline (508-422-2960), is available to mothers, pediatricians and physicians to speak to an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) who can answer questions, assist in making appropriate community referrals and schedule a consultation if necessary.

Mothers breastfeeding groups are free and are available every Thursday morning and the fourth Saturday of each month at 10 am in the maternity education room on the second floor. All breastfeeding mothers are welcome whether they have delivered at Milford Regional or another hospital. An IBCLC is available to answer questions and to guide this peer directed group. Mothers have told us that groups have been vital to their breastfeeding success. Here are some things mothers have told us:

“Being part of Milford Regional’s mother’s group has not only helped us nourish our children, but also our friendships as both women and mothers!”

“I’m one of the first of my friends to have kids and my own mom didn’t breastfeed, so
having a group of people to ask questions, and share tips and tricks with has been very helpful”

“The support I’ve received is what helps me get through the difficult days. I am able to get the love and reassurance I need when I need it through my support systems”

Although the core players in the breastfeeding team are the mother and baby, they rely on many teammates, coaches, cheerleaders and fans to succeed. Help build a mother’s confidence! Remind her of the benefits of breastfeeding and the reasons she wants to breastfeed this baby. Answer her questions accurately or help her find the answers from a knowledgeable source. Shield her from negative comments or criticisms. Praise and give the mother positive comments about herself, the baby, and breastfeeding. Bring a meal, run errands, help around the house or help care for older children.

Our mother’s breastfeeding group is a place where mothers can feel supported and encouraged to meet their breastfeeding goals. Together with an IBCLC and peers, mothers can share their fears, successes, and strategies to support each other in a casual setting.

Sign-up for our support groups here.

Contact Lactation Services at 508-422-2960 for further information or check out our webpage.