Lactation Pod Bolsters Breastfeeding Support Resources at UPMC Williamsport

May 22, 2024

WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. – UPMC staff and leaders were recently joined by mothers and babies to celebrate the addition of a new breastfeeding resource, a Mamava lactation pod, at UPMC Williamsport during a special unwrapping ceremony.

The Mamava pod is a private, secure, and comfortable space for mothers to pump or nurse and is located adjacent to The Birthplace, a UPMC Magee-Women's labor and delivery site. Parents can find and unlock the pod with the touch of a button using the free Mamava app. The app will also let a user know when the pod is in use or available.

“The health benefits of breastfeeding and breast milk for both babies and mothers are undeniable, and as part of the healthy culture at UPMC, we take great pride in supporting lactating parents and their babies,” said Natalie McCullen, RN, international board-certified lactation consultant, UPMC Magee-Womens. “Whether a mother is here for care, visiting a patient, or working as a staff member, they have a right to access private and secure space for their needs. Today’s ceremony is a fun way to celebrate this new option for them here at our facility.”

The Mamava lactation pod was made possible by generous contributions to the Susquehanna Health Foundation boosting UPMC's efforts at providing family-friendly campuses and facilities.

“It’s really nice. It allows more privacy; you don’t have to search for a room for a quiet, safe space for feeding or pumping,” said Breana Cooper, BSN, professional staff nurse, The Birthplace, mom to five-week-old Kaiana who is looking forward to using the pod when she returns to work.

The Birthplace at UPMC Williamsport is a designated Baby-Friendly facility by Baby-Friendly USA, which serves as a national authority and accrediting body on the subject. The standards for the Baby-Friendly designation are based on a set of practices recommended by the World Health Organization and the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF). Designated facilities provide an environment that supports breastfeeding while respecting every woman’s right to make the best decision for herself and her family. The Birthplace at UPMC Williamsport has retained its designation as a Baby-Friendly facility since 2016.

To learn more about breastfeeding and lactation support services offered by UPMC Magee-Womens in northcentral Pennsylvania, go to UPMC.com/MaternityNCPA.