Wildflower Health extends its support of pregnant women and new parents to include virtual and in-person lactation services

Wildflower delivers personalized experiences that activate women in their own care, while simplifying the healthcare journey for families with a modular model of human touch and digital tools. To continue that mission of care, Wildflower now offers lactation support. 

Wildflower’s lactation capabilities encompass the third trimester through postpartum breastfeeding needs of new parents. Nationwide virtual appointments and in-person appointments in select regions are available to schedule, including same-day appointments. 

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for about the first  6 months, with continued breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary foods for up to 2 years of age or older. Data from the CDC shows that most infants start out breastfeeding, and many are still receiving some breast milk at 6 months. 

However, 60% of families do not breastfeed for as long as they intend to, and breastfeeding disparities by race and ethnicity persist. The CDC states in its Breastfeeding Report Card that the steady decline in any and exclusive breastfeeding from month-to-month indicates that breastfeeding families may need stronger systems of support to reach their breastfeeding goals.

“At Wildflower, we empower women and families in their care. We want to encourage moms to reach their breastfeeding goals, which for many can be hindered by a lack of support or answers,” said Leah Sparks, founder and CEO of Wildflower Health. “Breastfeeding is a very personal care experience that can’t always be answered by a simple article. Families need that individual support that can be accomplished with virtual and in-person lactation consultations, from trusted and knowledgeable IBCLCs.”

Wildflower launched its lactation services in Summer 2023 focused on virtual, in coordination with its long-time partner, Cigna Healthcare. Wildflower currently accepts Cigna, at no additional cost for members. In-person consultations began in early 2024 in six key regions, with more regions rolling out throughout the year. 

A hybrid approach to lactation support - virtual and in-person - builds on the ability to reach recommended clinical guidelines and family goals. Powering the trusted care are the International Board Certified Breastfeeding Consultants who Wildflower exclusively employs. 

Wildflower’s IBCLCs help patients navigate their breastfeeding journey, answering questions, providing support, and advising on positioning and other issues with evidence-based advice and guidance. The support continues throughout baby’s breastfeeding journey to address tips and education, partner support, balancing life and family when breastfeeding, and preparing parents for returning to work.

Patients looking for lactation support who are Cigna members can schedule their appointment at wildflowerhealth.com/virtualcare. 

Wildflower offers a virtual care network that supplements in-person care, including in geographies with limited access to maternal health resources. To access a document about our telehealth support, provide your information below.