Back

Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding Services: Virtua Maternity Care

Healthy Benefits for Mom and Baby

Virtua, along with many leading health organizations, recommends that infants breastfeed for at least 12 months, with exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months. 


This means that babies are not given any foods or liquids other than breast milk for the first 6 months. The information below is provided to help you successfully breastfeed your baby.

Why Breastfeeding is Important

calendar

Get Personalized Breastfeeding Support

We offer individual consultations, comprehensive plans and support groups to encourage your breastfeeding success.

See all breastfeeding support services and resources


Breastfeeding Basics & Beyond

getting started

Getting Started

Breastfeeding is a process that takes time to master. Babies and mothers need to practice.

Read More
how it works

How It Works

Your body will go through several changes as you breastfeed. Learn what the changes are and how to deal with them for a pleasant breastfeeding experience.

Read More
breastfeeding challenges

Common Challenges

Breastfeeding can be challenging at times, especially in the early days. But it is important to remember that you are not alone.

Read More
making it work

Making it Work

Breastfeeding is an important decision for your baby and you. Discover what works best to make it a pleasant experience for both of you.

Read More
pumping milk storage

Pumping and Milk Storage

Follow these practical tips on choosing a breast pump, storing milk, returning to work while breastfeeding and more.

Read More
Breastfeeding questions

Breastfeeding Common Questions

Discover answers to some frequently asked questions about breastfeeding and parenting for new and veteran moms.

Read More
breastfeeding drinking water

Nutrition and Fitness While Breastfeeding

Learn what you should eat and how much exercise you should do while breastfeeding. 

Read More
breastfeeding log

Breastfeeding Log

Log your child's progress until you feel confident that your baby is getting enough milk and gaining an appropriate amount of weight.
Download PDF

Breastfeeding Guide Cover Image July 2022

Your Guide to Successful Breastfeeding

Download PDF:
English
Portuguese

Lactation Nav

MEET WITH A LACTATION CONSULTANT

Schedule a one-on-one support session by calling 1-888-VIRTUA-3.

calendar

Maternity and Parenting Classes

Virtua offers a variety of expert-led maternity classes and support groups for moms, dads and grandparents. Topics include childbirth preparation, prenatal yoga, labor basics, breastfeeding, postpartum depression support and more.

View All Maternity Classes and Support Groups

You may also like

""

Can You Establish Your Milk Supply and Breastfeed Again if You Stopped?

It may be challenging if you want to reestablish breastfeeding a few months after you stopped, but it's possible with the right help. Here's what you need to know.

Read More
Mom-baby-thumbnail kekesi By: Nicole Kekesi

Feeling #Blessed When Life is A Mess

Motherhood is never as easy as others' simple snapshots may appear. Do not compare your life, baby, or breastfeeding experience to those of others who are posting on social media.

Read More
What to Expect from a Visit to a Board-Certified Lactation Consultant kekesi By: Nicole Kekesi

What to Expect from a Visit to a  Lactation Consultant

When it comes to breastfeeding challenges, have no fear. Board-certified lactation consultants are here to help you succeed with one-on-one attention and care.

Read More
Showing 3 of 51