OSF HealthCare Saint Katharine Enhances Support for New Mothers

OSF HealthCare Saint Katharine Medical Center in Dixon, Illinois, is showcasing its extensive lactation services in honor of National Breastfeeding Month. These programs aim to support new mothers both before and after childbirth, ensuring they are well-equipped for their breastfeeding journeys.

The hospital’s dedicated team of certified lactation experts offers personalized care tailored to the unique needs of each family. “We prioritize the postpartum phase of a woman’s childbirth experience just as much as her pregnancy, which includes lactation support,” stated Gwen Strum, a lactation consultant at OSF Saint Katharine. She emphasized that support should continue after the baby’s arrival, stating that whether a mother and baby are facing challenges or simply need reassurance, close follow-up is essential.

This comprehensive support has greatly impacted mothers like Clara Haas. Haas shared her experience, noting, “With the start of my lactation journey looking different than I had anticipated, anxiety began to overwhelm me. With the consistent and dedicated help of OSF’s lactation consultant, Gwen Strum, we quickly came up with a personalized solution for stressful feedings.” She added that breastfeeding is not a one-size-fits-all approach, highlighting the importance of tailored support.

Haas reflected on how her experience with Strum made a significant difference in her postpartum journey. “I could not imagine my postpartum journey without Gwen’s commitment to making new moms feel equipped with all the knowledge and skills to do what is best for not only our babies, but ourselves. I never felt rushed, questioned, or judged. Rather, I left appointments feeling heard, encouraged, and determined.”

Comprehensive Lactation Services

Lactation care at OSF Saint Katharine begins as early as pregnancy, with one-on-one prenatal consultations conducted by International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs). These sessions allow expectant mothers to ask questions, learn breastfeeding basics, and build confidence before delivery. Additionally, breastfeeding education classes provide more in-depth instruction for mothers and their support partners.

After delivery, mothers receive in-hospital lactation support along with a structured follow-up plan. Within two to five days of discharge, a certified lactation counselor (CLC) visits the mother at home to ensure that breastfeeding is progressing smoothly. Should further assistance be required, additional support from an IBCLC is available at the OSF Saint Katharine outpatient lactation clinic.

OSF HealthCare Saint Katharine’s commitment to comprehensive lactation services is designed to empower new mothers and foster confidence in their breastfeeding abilities. For more information or to schedule a lactation consultation, interested individuals can contact OSF Saint Katharine’s Women’s Health Services at 815-285-5427 or reach out to the outpatient lactation clinic at 815-285-5834.