The Lactation Center provides personal breastfeeding support for new mothers. Certified lactation consultants are available by appointment, are specially trained to provide counseling and teach mothers techniques for breastfeeding.

Breast pumps are available for rental or purchase.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding for at least one year and, if possible, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months.

Research shows that:

	•	If you breastfeed, your baby will be sick 50% less often than if formula-fed.
	•	A child who is breastfed for a year will be sick less than half as often as his formula-fed classmates during his/her entire school-age life.
	•	Breastfeeding significantly reduces SIDS, diabetes, obesity, and certain childhood cancers.
	•	Breastfed children have keener eyesight, higher IQs, better teeth alignment, and fewer ear infections and digestive upsets.
	•	Women who breastfeed lose pregnancy weight more quickly, have fewer female cancers, and less osteoporosis.
	•	Breastfeeding will  save your family at least $3,000 in the cost of formula and bottles alone.

Our approach to care is:

Personalized: A breastfeeding consultaion at TLC addresses each mother's specific needs and questions.

Supportive: We take time to understand the challenges that each new mother has in breastfeeding her baby.

Convenient: In addition to offering pumps and supplies for purchase or rental, we are available to help with pump set-up.

"A Mother's Circle" offers free, drop-in support and breastfeeding information on Tuesdays from 2:00 to 3:00 pm in Conference Room G at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital.

Please call 569-7826 to verify the Circle will be held on the day you wish to attend.

Lactation consultants or clinical educators are on hand to provide ongoing support for expectant, new, and nursing mothers who have questions or concerns about breastfeeding or are just getting started.

More information about TLC services and supplies

Contact the Lactation Center at
(805) 569-7826