Mother-Baby Health
 | Key Takeaways |
- El Camino Health offers breastfeeding support, postpartum care and maternal mental health services in Mountain View and Los Gatos.
- Board-certified lactation consultants provide ongoing breastfeeding guidance for new parents, both in the hospital and online.
- The MOMS Program delivers specialized postpartum mental health support, including counseling and group services for new mothers.
Support After Pregnancy
After delivery, your care at El Camino Health continues with services focused on your physical and emotional postpartum recovery. We offer breastfeeding support from board-certified lactation consultants, mental health care through our MOMS program and other resources to help you adjust. Support is available in the hospital, online and after you return home. We’re here whenever you need us as you settle into life with your newborn.
Breastfeeding
Our team of internationally board-certified lactation consultants (IBCLCs) helps you begin your breastfeeding journey. We round through the mother-baby unit regularly to answer questions, help with latching and support your feeding goals. Both of our birthing centers provide the highest standard of breastfeeding support for you and your baby. Our Mountain View and Los Gatos hospitals are designated Baby-Friendly® Hospitals, reflecting our commitment to evidence-based breastfeeding support and parent-baby bonding.
Breast Pump Rentals
Our Mountain View and Los Gatos campuses offer convenient maternity boutiques. At both locations, you can rent breast pumps and purchase breastfeeding products, such as nursing bras and breast pads. Our staff can help you find the supplies that work best for you.
Online Lactation Consulting
Breastfeeding care doesn’t stop when you bring your baby home from the hospital. Our IBCLCs provide one-on-one assistance through both online and in-person visits. Call 650-988-8290 (Mountain View) or 408-871-7479 (Los Gatos) for more information and to make an appointment. Or schedule a lactation consultation online.
Online Breastfeeding Support Group
Breastfeeding often comes with ups and downs. It helps to have support along the way. Our online breastfeeding support group connects you with IBCLCs and other mothers on similar journeys. Together, you can share experiences, ask questions and learn practical tips for common challenges, including:
- Breastfeeding techniques
- Latching and soreness
- Low milk supply
- Newborn fussiness
- Pumping
- Sleep routines
- Weight gain concerns
Maternal Mental Health Support
Adjusting to life with a newborn can bring unexpected emotional challenges. Our Maternal Outreach Mood Services (MOMS) Program supports your mental health after childbirth. Offered in collaboration with maternal mental health services and the Scrivner Center for Mental Health and Addiction Services, this outpatient program provides education, counseling and evaluation in a safe, nurturing setting.
Our team includes psychiatrists, clinical nurse specialists, marriage and family therapists, and other perinatal mental health experts.
Through individual, partner and group counseling, you’ll gain tools and strategies for:
- Building strong mother-baby bonds
- Communicating with your partner and family
- Coping with stress and change
- Practicing self-care
- Setting realistic expectations
If you need additional care, your provider may refer you to our inpatient women’s specialty unit, where we treat a range of perinatal mental health disorders. We also offer partial hospitalization or intensive outpatient programs.
What Is the Maternal Mood Services (MOMS) Program?
The Maternal Outreach Mood Services (MOMS) Program offers education, counseling and evaluation for expectant and new mothers in a supportive, nurturing environment.
Pelvic Health
Pregnancy and childbirth can lead to new pain, symptoms or challenges with your pelvic floor. Our women’s pelvic health team offers pelvic floor therapy to help ease these symptoms for you.
Our Strength. Your Health.
Jamie bravely overcame severe postpartum depression and anxiety after the birth of her daughter. Today, she is resilient, bringing up her two beloved children.
People Also Ask
Does El Camino Health offer postpartum classes or education programs for new parents?
In addition to breastfeeding support and mental health services, we offer a wide range of classes and resources to help you adjust to life with a newborn. Topics include baby care basics, postpartum recovery, infant safety and more.
Can partners or family members participate in counseling or support programs?
Yes. Many of our counseling services, including those offered through the MOMS Program, welcome partners and family members. Involving loved ones can improve communication, reduce stress and strengthen support for you and your baby.
How do I know if I might have postpartum depression?
Postpartum depression may leave you constantly feeling sad, anxious, overwhelmed, disconnected or unable to care for yourself or your child. If you notice these symptoms, reach out to your provider as soon as possible.
How do I know if my baby is getting enough milk?
Signs of effective breastfeeding include a comfortable latch, swallowing during feeding, steady weight gain and regular wet and dirty diapers. You may notice your breasts feel softer and your baby appears content after most feeds.