Maternal Child Services at MVHS offers several educational classes and support services for new mothers, including breastfeeding and childbirth.

Breastfeeding Classes

Maternal Child Services at MVHS offers FREE monthly breastfeeding classes for expectant parents who have chosen or are considering breastfeeding.

The classes, taught by International Board Certified Breastfeeding Consultants (IBCLC), will cover the following:

  • Importance of breastfeeding for the optimal well-being of mother and baby
  • Natural newborn behavior
  • What to expect in the first few days
  • Physiology of milk production
  • Positioning and latch for optimal comfort
  • Finding support after discharge
  • Returning to work
  • Breastfeeding tools and breast pumps.

Common breastfeeding concerns will be addressed and resource information will be available. Fathers are encouraged to attend!

Classes are held at the CenteringPregnancy® Room at the Faxton Campus. For more information, please contact Galina Karpova, RN, IBCLC, at 315-624-4782 or gkarpova@mvhealthsystem.org; or Renee Tarbox, RN, CLC, at 315-624-4782 or rtarbox@mvhealthsystem.org.

Breastfeeding Cafe

The Breastfeeding Cafe is a meeting space for pregnant and breastfeeding moms to support one another, socialize and get breastfeeding clinical support if needed. Refreshments are served and a baby weigh station is available.

The group meets the first and third Tuesday of each month from noon to 2 p.m. in the CenteringPregnancy® Room at the Faxton Campus, 1675 Bennett Street, Utica.

For the most up-to-date Breastfeeding Cafe schedule, including all events and locations, visit facebook.com/BreastfeedingCafe.

For more information or to register, please call Galina Karpova, CLC, at 315-624-4782 or email at gkarpova@mvhealthsystem.org.