For many mothers, breastfeeding is both a dream and a goal. For some it comes naturally, but for many it requires a little (or a lot of!) help along the journey. MilkWorks was created to provide all mothers with the access to breastfeeding support and to help all mothers successfully breastfeed.
History of MilkWorks
MilkWorks is a non-profit community breastfeeding center that was founded in 2001. The original MilkWorks is located in Lincoln and the Omaha location opened in 2015. They also have several outreach programs for smaller communities in Nebraska.
Services
MilkWorks provides a variety of services to breastfeeding mothers, most of which are free or low cost. One of the most popular services is the free baby weigh station. This station allows a mother to weigh her baby prior to nursing and then immediately after nursing to determine how much milk her baby takes from the breast. This is helpful when you are monitoring your baby’s weight gain or are preparing to return to work and want to know how much breastmilk to provide while you are gone.
The free or low cost classes and groups are also popular.
These classes cover everything from the basics of breastfeeding and what you need to know in the early days of your journey to wearing your baby and breastfeeding at the same time. MilkWorks also has a class on what to expect when returning to work or school. They even have Moms Groups where you can connect to other breastfeeding mothers and receive research-based support.
MilkWorks has lactation consultants on staff to provide one-on-one breastfeeding consultations with mothers who may need extra help.
Possible reasons for breastfeeding consultations include painful latching or other latching issues, milk supply concerns, or weight gain concerns. They are able to bill all major private insurance plans and all Nebraska Medicaid plans for these consultations. MilkWorks also has a discounted out-of-pocket payment for those who do not have insurance or whose insurance does not cover breastfeeding support. Most lactation consultants are available for an appointment within 24 hours of calling.
Supplies
There is a wide range of breastfeeding supplies at MilkWorks. Breast pumps are available to rent or to buy, and MilkWorks is able to bill insurance for pumps. A service plan is provided with all pumps so mothers are able to learn how to use and maintain their pumps. They also sell breast pump accessories, individual pump parts, and pump bags for carrying and storing breast pumps.
MilkWorks has a large selection of nursing bras and tops. All employees are certified bra-fitters and will make sure the bra properly fits and supports while meeting a mother’s needs in a bra.
Education
MilkWorks provides breastfeeding education in person, on the phone, and online. The website has a wealth of information on breastfeeding, parenting, and motherhood and is easily accessible when middle-of-the-night questions pop up. Popular topics include engorgement, bottle feeding, introducing solids, and how to store breastmilk.
Contact MilkWorks
MilkWorks was started by mothers for mothers. It can be a place to find breastfeeding help, purchase breastfeeding items, or to find a community of breastfeeding mothers. You can find more information at the links below:
