Hidden Gems: Meet Maggie Toner of MB Lactation

Today we’d like to introduce you to Maggie Toner.

Hi Maggie, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My mother always emphasized the importance of breastfeeding, but I never truly paid attention until I was pregnant. I studied Nursing at the University of Pennsylvania where one of my professors, Dr Diane Spatz kick started my interest in Women’s Health. After graduating, I had a varitey of nursing jobs including; NYU Neurosurgical ICU and Urology Research. I decided to become a Family Nurse Practitioner to keep my scope of practice broad and my options open.

I received my Masters of Science in Nursing at UCLA while working part-time for the UCLA Kidney Trasplant Program. I fell in love with team, worked under some of greatest doctors and humans in the world and stayed with the program after becoming a NP. Then I had our daughter and my world changed for the better. I was fortunate enough to stay at home with her, although, it wasn’t an easy decision. Part of what guided my choice came from knowing pumping at work would be a big task, and I commend every woman who has done it.

Breastfeeding was challenging and rewarding. After the birth of our son, I sought the help of an IBCLC. My husband and I instantly thought, “Why didn’t we do this with our first?”. Jessica Sacher of the Pump Station was such a great influence that I reached out to her a few years later when I decided; I want to do this. Women need more support in postpartum and with breastfeeding. There are tremendous health benefits for the mother and child and I believe some not even discovered yet. It’s a privledge to support women during such a significant time in their lives.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Studing for my International Board of Lactation Consultants Exam was a challenge. As an international exam, the material was harder than I expected. My capacity for studying has changed since having children. I was proud and relieved when I passed.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about MB Lactation ?
I offer prenatal breastfeeding education as well as postpartum lactation support in the SouthBay. Currently I do home visits, but am considering setting up space in a pediatric practice. A lot of families are eligble for insurance coverage or reimbursement. I usually get a call a day or two after mom and baby are home, it’s a lot different then having all the nurses help you in the hospital. It’s great to meet ahead of time, then I know to expect the call and families are comfortable with me before visiting during such a vulnerable time. Supporting the mother’s emotional and mental health is something I deeply value.

Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
The Pump Station IBCLCs have been a great resource for me as well as Kristina Chamberlain and other local IBCLCs. It’s a very supportive profession.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.mblactation.org
• Instagram: mb.lactation
• LinkedIn: Maggie Beerley Toner

Image Credits
Kira Ward (baby pic), Jon Rogin (family pic).