1. What is the role of a lactation consultant?
A lactation consultant is a specialist who helps mothers with their breastfeeding processes. Lactation consultants tend to work closely with mothers in order to develop appropriate lactating habits.
2. Who will benefit from this service?
Mothers dealing with conditions such as:
- Improper latching by the baby
- Baby falling asleep at the breast
- Improper pumping
- Refusal of the baby to breastfeed
- Postpartum depression
- Baby not hitting the targeted weight milestones will benefit from engaging with a lactation consultant.
3. What services will you get following appointing a lactation consultant?
- A dedicated consultant who completely grasps what new mothers go through. In some cases a new mother tends to deal with psychological concerns such as postpartum depression and lactation consultants are ready to provide such individuals with comfort, as well as support in order to get them through these difficult phases.
- The knowledge of lactation consultants when it comes to breastfeeding is the key ingredient of this service as they will show new mothers the most effective approaches regarding nursing newborns.
★ During the session a lactation consultant would normally:
- Adjust your breastfeeding position if applicable
- Deliver written instructions regarding the protocols that one should follow
- Examine the breathing patterns of the baby while breastfeeding
- Examine the breasts and the nipple area
- Examine the performance of the mother with the pumps
- Observe the behaviour of the baby as well as his/her appearance
4. Supporting fact regarding the effectiveness of lactation counseling
A study conducted by the Journal of Human Lactation in 2016 upon reviewing more than 20 studies on breastfeeding, came to the conclusion that engaging with lactation consultants lead to a significant increase in breastfeeding rates.
5. How to Prepare for your appointments?
- Make a list of all the questions you have regarding the nursing of your baby and bring them up in the presence of the consultant.
- If you use a breast pump, make sure it is clean and ready for usage prior to the arrival of the consultant.
- If this service is being delivered to you in your home, make sure that there are no sources of distraction present as complete focus is required during the sessions.
Get An Appointment Contacts
Frequently asked questions
1. When is the right time for me to contact a lactation consultant?
The best time to contact a lactation consultant is shortly before the birth of the baby. The consultant can help you get ready for the nursing processes ahead.
2. Are lactation consultants doctors?
No, most lactation consultants are considered nurse practitioners.
