Breastfeeding Support Services
At Bronson, we know that breastfeeding can have its ups and downs, especially in the beginning. That is why both Bronson Battle Creek and Bronson Methodist Hospitals are Baby-Friendly designated hospitals. The Bronson BirthPlace in Battle Creek and Kalamazoo provides support through lactation consultants and our Breastfeeding Centers.
Breastfeeding provides your new baby with the best nutrition and helps develop a close bond between you and your child. Breastfeeding can give you both a sense of warmth, closeness and pleasure. However, successful breastfeeding does not happen by instinct alone.
Education is helpful, especially in the beginning. That is why Bronson BirthPlace provides lactation support through our Breastfeeding Center in both Battle Creek and Kalamazoo. We are committed to making your breastfeeding experience a positive one for both you and your baby.
Bronson Breastfeeding Center – Battle Creek
Bronson Breastfeeding Center – Kalamazoo
Consultation & Outpatient Services
Our consultation services are designed to provide support to breastfeeding individuals during pregnancy and after delivery. Services are provided on both an inpatient and outpatient basis.
Bronson lactation consultants include lactation specialists as well as registered nurses, social workers and dieticians who are certified in breastfeeding consultation. They provide prenatal and post-partum education, advice on breastfeeding practices and personal consultation services. Our lactation consultants are also available to work with other healthcare providers on complex breastfeeding issues and concerns both before and after your baby is born.
Lactation Support at Baby Cafes
Baby cafés are spaces where breastfeeding consultants and support staff provide birth and lactation support to families of color. Bronson supports several local cafés across Calhoun and Kalamazoo counties. Breastfeeding visitors can work with lactation consultants and connect with others who are breastfeeding. This initiative is designed to improve birth outcomes within vulnerable communities.
Café locations include:
- Milk Like Mine: 223 E. Roosevelt in Battle Creek
- Rootead: 505 E. Kalamazoo Ave in Kalamazoo
To make services available to as many breastfeeding individuals as possible, pop up cafés are also hosted throughout the year at satellite locations throughout Kalamazoo and Calhoun counties.
Breastfeeding Accessories Available
At both Bronson Breastfeeding Centers in Battle Creek and Kalamazoo, we have Spectra personal-use breast pumps that are covered by your insurance. Call the consultants in Battle Creek at (269) 245-8586 or the consultants in Kalamazoo at (269) 341-8849 for more information.
Bronson Mothers' Milk Bank
Bronson Mothers’ Milk Bank is one of only 32 non-profit milk banks in North America. Its purpose is to provide donor human milk to premature and sick babies whose mothers are unable to provide their own milk or who have a low supply of milk. If you are interested in becoming a donor or are a physician who wishes to order donor human milk, call the Bronson Mothers' Milk Bank at (269) 341-6146.
Bronson Mothers' Milk Bank
Additional Questions?
For additional questions related to maternal self-care, infant care and parenting, visit the YoMingo® educational platform. If you are concerned with any symptoms you may be having, contact your primary care provider or OB/GYN.
YoMingo® Pregnancy App
