Stephanie Kaufman, RN, BSN, IBCLC
Stephanie Kaufman, RN, BSN, IBCLC, is the Lactation and Discharge Coordinator at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, where she began her tenure three years ago. In spring 2023, she expanded her impact by launching Shine Lactation + Postpartum Support, a private practice providing in-home, office-based, and video lactation and postpartum care for families across central Kansas and beyond. With nearly 30 years of experience in maternal and child health, Stephanie combines deep clinical expertise with a personalized, family-centered approach.
Stephanie’s professional focus is on making lactation and postpartum support accessible, practical, and empowering for families. She believes in meeting parents where they are—whether at home, in the clinic, or virtually—to reduce barriers and provide guidance during a challenging yet transformative time. Her practice integrates prenatal lactation education, postnatal breastfeeding support, newborn sleep guidance, infant massage instruction, and care for tethered oral tissue, ensuring that families receive holistic support tailored to their needs.
Throughout her career, Stephanie has demonstrated a commitment to excellence and continuous learning. She became an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) 11 years ago, a milestone she considers pivotal in her professional development. She also serves as a neonatal resuscitation provider instructor and mentors new lactation consultants, sharing her expertise to strengthen the broader community of maternal and newborn care. Stephanie’s work is guided by compassion, education, and empowerment, reflecting her dedication to helping families thrive during the early stages of parenthood.
• International Board Certified Lactation Consultant
• The University of Kansas - BSN
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of specialized education, hands-on experience, and the guidance of mentors who have shaped my path, including inspiring nurses and my grandmother. Early in my career, I faced imposter syndrome, particularly because I lacked personal experience as a mother, but the encouragement and support I received from colleagues helped me grow with confidence. Their mentorship, combined with my dedication to breastfeeding support and lifelong learning, has been instrumental in developing my expertise and making a meaningful impact in the lives of the families I serve.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Encourages new providers: "The more helpers, the better in this field." She reassures that the work is always needed and offers wholehearted support to those entering the field.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
In my work and personal life, I value compassion, education, and meaningful connection. As a board-certified lactation consultant and mentor, I take pride in supporting new graduates and guiding individuals pursuing certification in lactation. I hold a nursing degree, am a certified neonatal resuscitation instructor, and have recently completed IBCLC training, including specialized work with tongue-tied infants. I have expanded my practice to include newborn sleep support and baby massage, reflecting my commitment to helping families navigate breastfeeding and newborn care. Beyond my professional work, I am actively involved with the Kansas Breastfeeding Coalition as an instructor and find fulfillment in volunteering with Journey at McPherson Church, where I participate in worship music, and with the Tim Tebow Foundation’s Night to Shine prom event for people with disabilities.