Breastfeeding Support
Lactation Services Prior to Delivery
Breastfeeding Class
Ridgeview offers a breastfeeding class for expectant moms. This is a single-session class — offered twice a month — presented by Ridgeview’s lactation consultants. This class will provide information to help moms prepare for successful breastfeeding post-delivery and during the first few weeks with their newborn.
Topics include the benefits of breastfeeding, tips for success, potential challenges, typical newborn behavior in relation to feeding and more. Classes take place in-person at the Ridgeview Community Auditorium, Waconia Campus, 500 South Maple St., Waconia, MN 55387.
Registration is required. Click here for full class details, including how to register.
Lactation Services After Delivery
During your hospital stay, you will have the opportunity to be seen by a lactation specialist for additional breastfeeding support. Acting as a nurse, cheerleader and friend, lactation specialists have encountered issues ranging from how to use a breast pump, postpartum depression to nutrition questions, and they’re here to answer your questions. Outpatient lactation consultations are also available, as needed, after discharge.
Lactation support is available in two formats — a free group support or one-on-one outpatient care.
Mom and Baby Connection
With start-up support from Carver County Public Health, Ridgeview offers a drop-in support group for new moms and their babies. The Mom and Baby Connection provides a casual environment where attendees meet other moms and gain helpful information from a Ridgeview lactation consultant. The Mom and Baby Connection is in-person and open to any mom at no cost.
Classes take place in-person at theBirthing Center rotunda (Third floor, Waconia Campus).
Mothers and infants are welcome; no other children at this time due to space limitations and to help prevent the spread of illness.
These are drop-in sessions with no registration required. Click here for full class details.
Questions? Call Ridgeview’s Birthing Center at 952-777-4658.
One-On-One Outpatient Lactation Services
Women who deliver at Ridgeview have the opportunity to meet with a lactation consultant during their hospital stay, but sometimes additional one-on-one support is needed following the return home. Ridgeview offers personal outpatient lactation visits by appointment on Fridays in the Ridgeview Professional Building on the Waconia Campus.
After a phone consultation, an in-person lactation assessment may be recommended. Moms will be asked to bring their babies hungry for a lactation assessment. The baby’s weight will be taken upon arrival and retaken at the end of the appointment to help determine if they are feeding sufficiently. During the appointment, moms will be supported with education on feeding techniques, using a breast pump, or uncovering why mom may be experiencing pain during breastfeeding. Moms will also be offered a tailored plan to overcome any feeding difficulties, and provided follow-up as needed.
For an appointment, call 952-777-4658.
