Breastfeeding Support Service (BFSS)

The Breastfeeding Support Service is part of the maternity unit at Sandringham Hospital and aims to provide information and support to those who are experiencing difficulties breastfeeding, establishing their lactation or mothers who may just require additional support in breastfeeding. We offer a balanced approach in a supportive environment. The service is available to babies from newborn up to three months old. The service is also available to women birthing at Sandringham Hospital, who may wish to see a lactation consultant antenatally (for example, discuss previous breastfeeding experiences and prepare for their next baby)

Our service provides the attention needed offering 1 lactation consultant to 2-3 mothers assisting in the following areas:

• Discuss any feeding or lactation concerns the mother may have. 
• Observe the baby breastfeeding preferably for two feeds.
• Develop a feeding plan with the mother.
• Assess and discuss if further follow-up is required.

The Breastfeeding support service is free and available for mothers who have birthed at Sandringham Hospital or their baby has been admitted to Sandringham hospital's Special care nursery. Unfortunately a fee does apply for others mothers who have birthed elsewhere.  Currently $70 for an initial visit and $50 for a second visit (this may be claimable through private health funds, please consult your health fund).  Mothers attend from 9am to 2.00pm.and lunch is provided.

Making an Appointment

To make an appointment please contact the Breastfeeding Support Service by leaving a message on 9076 1570. Mothers are encouraged to refer themselves alternately they can be referred by their partner, mother midwife, doctor or maternal and child health nurse.

What to bring to an appointment

Please bring the following items to your appointment

• Medicare card/Health care card/Private health fund card
• Child health record book
• A good supply of nappies, wipes & clothes for your baby
• All needs for babies feeds this may  include breast pump attachments
• Something for baby to sleep in eg. pram
• Any referral letters or list of medications

Due to space restraints and privacy issues, partners and siblings unfortunately can not be accommodated.

Please arrive via the main entrance at 8.45am and see reception where you will be directed to admissions briefly, then follow the green line to Breastfeeding Support Service.

If you require immediate assistance you can contact the following services

or log on to