Breast-feeding is the most natural and healthiest way to nourish your baby, as well as the most rewarding for mother. Like anything new you do, it is useful to have help and support along the way. That is why the Lactation Consultants are available for all your breast-feeding questions and needs.
Our Mission
To assist nursing mothers in achieving their personal breastfeeding goals through compassionate and skilled support and education.
Our Staff
Lactation Services of the Western Pennsylvania Hospital is staffed by board-certified lactation consultants (International Board Certified Lactation Consultants), who are also registered nurses. Our experienced practitioners attend workshops and conferences that support breastfeeding education and continually learn from their daily interactions with new moms and babies.
- Sandra M. Porco, R.N., B.S.N., IBCLC
- Robert Monteverde, R.N., B.S.N., IBCLC
- Julie Brown, R.N., B.S.N., IBCLC
- Lillian Roth, R.N., B.S.N., IBCLC
Located in Suite 152 Mellon Pavillion
West Penn Hospital
4800 Friendship Ave.
Pittsburgh., PA 15224
Phone: (412)-578-7030
Our Services
We proudly offer expectant and new nursing families a variety of on-site services to promote breastfeeding success. Our services include:
- Prenatal consultations, particularly for past lactation failure
- Prenatal breast-feeding classes – offered monthly
- In hospital lactation visits-all nursing mothers are seen by a lactation consultant
- Outpatient lactation visits-provided on request for mothers with breastfeeding problems. Visits are held at West Penn Hospital (fee for service)
- The “Nursing Café” – a free, weekly support group for nursing moms/babies
- Breastfeeding phone line – 7 days a week, 9 am – 5 pm for breastfeeding questions/concerns
- On-site certified bra fittings available
Our Areas of Expertise
- Early Feedings
- Sore nipples and breast pain
- Difficult latch
- Flat or inverted nipples
- Multiples
- Premature birth
- Returning to work
- Milk supply issues
Products Offered
- Breast Pump Rentals and Sales along with a full line of quality products to assist in establishing and maintaining breastfeeding are available on-site
- Our array of products includes nursing bras, Hotslings, nursing camisoles, micro steam bags, bra pads and Purelan ointment
- On-site certified bra fittings available
Our Hours
The Lactation Center (located in Suite 152 Mellon Pavilion) is open 9 am-5 pm Monday through Friday. Weekend or evening appointments can be made by calling (412) 578-7030.
For More Information
- American Academy of Pediatrics position statement regarding breastfeeding
- Breastfeeding After Breast and Nipple Surgeries
Breastfeeding after reduction surgery; offers support and advice on breastfeeding after breast and nipple surgeries
- Breastfeeding.com
Great site for a variety of breastfeeding topics and concerns
- Dr. Jack Newman and Edith Kernerman
Renowned Canadian Pediatrician, Dr. Jack Newman offers expert information and guidance on a variety of breastfeeding topics; includes great video links and downloadable handouts
- Kellymom
Website which provides evidence based information on breastfeeding and parenting
- LaLeche League International
Website providing evidence based information on a wide range of breastfeeding topics/concerns

