Lactation after loss program available statewide

Friday, October 24, 2025 at 7:00 PM

October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, which is a time to recognize and help families who have experienced loss. The Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) Lactation after Loss Program is now available statewide to support grieving families who have experienced miscarriages, stillbirths or infant deaths. The program offers tools for the grieving mother to make an informed decision about what to do regarding her milk supply.

The program also provides kits that include an electric breast pump, milk storage bags and resources to help support the families. IDOH staff packed nearly 1,000 kits for grieving Hoosier families in August in support of the Lactation after Loss program.

“The Lactation after Loss Program empowers families with knowledge about what to expect after experiencing such tragedy,” said State Health Commissioner Lindsay Weaver, M.D., FACEP. “By offering compassionate resources, we aim to foster understanding and support for bereaved mothers during an often overlooked part of their healing journey.”

To request a pump kit or learn more about the Lactation after Loss program, please email IDOHFIMR@health.in.gov or visit https://www.in.gov/health/safesleep/lactation-after-loss/. Visit The Milk Bank's website for more information on its Bereavement Program.

Visit the Indiana Department of Health at www.health.in.gov for important health and safety information or follow us on X at @StateHealthIN and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/StateHealthIN.