Breastfeeding in Montreal: 3 local resources and supports

Breastfeeding is an important step in the journey of many mothers in Montreal. However, it can also be a source of questions, challenges and sometimes doubts. Fortunately, Montreal is full of resources and support to accompany mothers on this adventure. Whether you are a future mother looking for information before the arrival of your baby, a new mother looking for support, or an experienced mother wanting to share her experience, let's explore together the different breastfeeding resources in Montreal.

  1. Breastfeeding support groups

Breastfeeding groups are where moms come together to share their stories, advice and laughter over a cup of coffee (or herbal tea!). You are free to be yourself, without judgment or pressure. If you're looking for a place where you feel supported, inspired and above all understood in your breastfeeding adventure, look no further: breastfeeding groups in Montreal are here to welcome you.

Nourri-Source Montreal

As one of the most established breastfeeding support groups in Montreal, Nourished-source provides invaluable support to breastfeeding mothers in the region. Their regular meetings provide a safe and welcoming space where new mothers can connect, ask questions of breastfeeding sponsors and lactation counselors. With a network of volunteer breastfeeding sponsors, nouri-source accompanies you privately or during breastfeeding stops. Do not hesitate to go to the breastfeeding stops free to seek help or advice and ask for one breastfeeding godmother free before your delivery.

The Leche league

The Leche League offers individual and free support thanks to LLL instructors but also support groups that can be held among the instructors, it is a moment of sharing to discuss breastfeeding, mothering, educational and relational choices that respect the child's abilities and sensitivity. They are open to anyone interested in breastfeeding.


2. The Doulas

The Doulas have expertise and training in breastfeeding, thanks to their experience and knowledge they are able to resolve the main common breastfeeding problems (problems with position, latching, milk production, and much more).

In addition to their technical expertise, doulas provide valuable emotional support to mothers. They listen carefully to their concerns, answer their questions, and encourage them in their breastfeeding journey, which can help mothers feel more confident and supported in their role as parents.

Doulas often offer services at home or online, making them easily accessible to mothers, even in situations where getting around can be difficult.

Their flexibility allows them to adapt their services to the needs and schedules of mothers, making them more practical and adapted to their daily lives.

3. Lactation consultants

Lactation consultants have more than 1,200 hours of specific breastfeeding training and offer very personalized support and help overcome any challenges that may arise. You can call on a lactation consultant if:

Your problem is becoming more complex

Lactation consultants are trained to provide a professional and personalized support when it comes to breastfeeding. Their expertise allows them to identify and resolve major breastfeeding issues such as. They are your resource if the advice of your breastfeeding godmother or Doula is no longer enough.


4. Shops specializing in breastfeeding

Visiting a specialty store offers much more than just a shopping experience. These stores are places of knowledge, advice and products specially designed to facilitate the breastfeeding journey for new mothers.

Here are three stores specializing in breastfeeding in Montreal:

Mother Helene

This boutique offers a wide range of products for mothers and babies, including nursing items such as nursing pads, nursing bras and breast pumps. They also offer lactation consultations and workshops for new mothers.

Bo-baby

This chain of baby stores offers a diverse selection of breastfeeding products, including specially designed breastfeeding clothing, washable nursing pads and electric breast pumps. They also have a team of counselors trained to answer mothers' breastfeeding questions.

Mother & Moss Shop

Located in the Plateau Mont-Royal district, this store offers a warm atmosphere and welcoming to moms looking for high-quality breastfeeding products. Their selection includes comfortable nursing bras, reusable nursing pads and nursing aids, as well as practical accessories such as nursing pads and breast pumps.

FAQ – Breastfeeding in Montreal

Where to find a breastfeeding support group in Montreal?

Several resources exist in Montreal for breastfeeding mothers. Nourri-Source Montréal offers free support groups led by volunteer breastfeeding sponsors. The La Leche League also offers monthly meetings in different districts of the city. These groups allow you to interact with other mothers and obtain practical advice in a caring environment.

Can a doula help me with breastfeeding?

Yes, some postnatal doulas are trained to support mothers in their breastfeeding journey. They can visit you at home in the first few days after giving birth, help you find good positions, identify signs of a good feeding, and refer you to lactation consultants if necessary. At Ysé Naissance, our doulas offer personalized and flexible support according to your needs.

What is the difference between a doula and a lactation consultant (IBCLC)?

The IBCLC lactation consultant is an internationally certified healthcare professional, specializing in the management of complex breastfeeding problems: persistent pain, tongue tie, insufficient production, etc. The postnatal doula offers more comprehensive emotional and practical support, including breastfeeding but also postpartum recovery, newborn care and family well-being. The two roles are complementary.

Where to buy quality breastfeeding accessories in Montreal?

Several specialized stores in Montreal offer quality breastfeeding equipment: Mère Hélène, Bô-Bébé and Boutique Mère & Mousses are excellent options. There you will find breast pumps, reusable nursing pads, suitable bras and nursing pads. These stores also have the advantage of offering personalized advice from their trained staff.

What to do if breastfeeding is painful or difficult?

Breastfeeding pain is not inevitable. Several causes can be responsible: poor latch of the breast, tongue tie in the baby, engorgement, mastitis or cracks. It is important to quickly consult an IBCLC lactation consultant who can identify the exact cause and propose suitable solutions. Don't wait — the sooner you get support, the more positive your breastfeeding experience will be.

Conclusion: You are not alone

Breastfeeding is a beautiful but sometimes demanding adventure. The good news is that Montreal is full of resources —support groups, doulas, lactation consultants and specialized stores — to support you every step of the way. Do not hesitate to combine these different resources according to your current needs.

If you are looking for personalized support from pregnancy or after childbirth, the Ysé Naissance team is here for you. Our doulas support you in your transition to motherhood, including your breastfeeding journey. Schedule a free meeting to know more.

woman breastfeeding her child in Montreal

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Find all of the services that I offer in preparation for birth as well as the notice families I have supported

Émilie Péru, doula and perinatal naturopath at Ysé Naissance
About the author

Émilie Péru

Doula and perinatal naturopath

Émilie offers families complete, safe support based on up-to-date knowledge. She qualified as a birth attendant (member of the AQD, 2020) and perinatal naturopath, member of the ANPQ.

Over the years, she has supplemented her practice with specializations in breastfeeding, hypnosis for pregnancy and birth, physiological carrying, Spinning Babies® and support for twin births. Since 2023, she has in turn passed on her knowledge as a teacher at the school Mother and World, where she trains the new generation of doulas in Quebec.

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