Preconception, prenatal & postpartum

Pregnancy and those early weeks with your baby can feel exciting, but also a little overwhelming. We’re here to answer your questions, help you prepare for birth and support you after your little one arrives. From breastfeeding help to managing stress and staying healthy, you’ll have someone in your corner.

Maternal healthcare

From your first prenatal visit through the postpartum period, we connect you with compassionate care, resources and guidance to keep you and your baby safe and healthy.

cheerful young woman holding her little infant son at home during the day
Two pregnant friends talking outside

Pregnancy support

Wondering what’s ahead? We’ll guide you through every stage of your pregnancy, help you get ready for birth, and give tips on caring for your newborn once they arrive.

Breastfeeding support

Breastfeeding is one of the best gifts you can give your baby — and yourself. Your body actually makes milk that’s perfectly designed for your little one, changing as they grow to meet their exact needs. It’s gentle on their tiny tummy, packed with nutrients, and full of antibodies that help keep them healthy.

Breastfeeding 
benefits & resources

The American Academy of Pediatrics, CDC and other leading health organizations recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, with continued breastfeeding through the first year and beyond.

Benefits for your baby

Breast milk helps your baby fight off sickness and lowers their chances of:

  • Asthma
  • Ear infections
  • Tummy troubles (diarrhea/vomiting)
  • Breathing problems
  • Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)
  • Childhood obesity and type 1 diabetes

Benefits for you

Nursing is good for your health too. Moms who breastfeed may:

  • Lose pregnancy weight faster
  • Lower their risk of high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, breast cancer and ovarian cancer

Benefits for families

Breastfeeding provides economic and practical advantages for the entire family:

  • Fewer doctor visits and hospital stays
  • Less stress and lower costs

Hospital Lactation Support


Lactation consultants at your delivering hospital provide hands-on assistance with latch issues, positioning and early breastfeeding challenges.


La Leche League

Mother-to-mother support groups offering encouragement, education and community connections for breastfeeding mothers.


Women Infants Children (WIC) Program

Local WIC offices provide counseling, educational materials, peer support, pumping supplies and telephonic support at 904.253.2083.


National Breastfeeding Helpline

Call 800.994.9662 for phone assistance from trained peer counselors in English and Spanish.


Stanford University Resources

Helpful instructional tips and videos for getting started with breastfeeding techniques.


LactMed Database

Peer-reviewed information on medications and drug safety for breastfeeding mothers.


Kelly Mom

Evidence-based breastfeeding information from certified lactation consultants.

Doctor examining belly of pregnant woman during home visit, providing personalized healthcare and support

Care coordination

Need help finding the right doctor, nurse or other services? Our care coordinator is here to connect you with the people and resources you need.

Healthy living

From eating well and staying active to managing stress or quitting smoking, we’ll support you in taking care of yourself during and after pregnancy.

Portrait of enjoy happy love family african american mother playing with adorable little african american baby.Mom touching with cute son moments good time in a white bedroom.Love of black family concept

Screening & referrals

We check in on your mental health, substance use and home safety — and connect you with the right services if you need extra support.

Interested in our services?

Thank you for your interest in the Northeast Florida
Healthy Start Coalition.

We have received your form. A care coordinator will contact you soon to discuss your needs and help you access the right programs and services for your family.