Are you trying to produce more milk? Looking for someone local who can help answer your questions about breastfeeding? If so, a lactation consultant may be able to assist you.
A lactation consultant is an expert on breastfeeding who can help new mothers and their partners get the most from this very special time in their lives. They are trained in identifying breastfeeding problems, teaching techniques, and diagnosing issues.
These professionals are not nurses or doctors; they will not check your vitals or write prescriptions. Rather, they provide a valuable service that many mothers find indispensable when it comes to understanding how their bodies work and how best to feed their children. What exactly do you need to know as you begin your journey as a parent? Read on for everything that you need to know about finding the best lactation consultant for moms-to-be.
What is a Lactation Consultant?
A lactation consultant is a health professional who provides education and support for breastfeeding mothers. These experts are often nurses but may be midwives, doctors, or other people with specialized knowledge in childbirth and breastfeeding. Lactation consultants work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, birthing centers, doctor’s offices, breastfeeding support groups and community health centers. Some lactation consultants offer online support and information, but you should be careful to select a consultant who is certified by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners and has experience working with the kind of issues you’re likely to encounter during breastfeeding.
What Does a Lactation Consultant Do?
A lactation consultant is trained to assess the situation and offer options to assist you. They will discuss your diet, work-out routine, medications, infant’s health, and other factors to help you understand what is happening during breastfeeding. They will help you correct proper breastfeeding techniques, find a routine that works best for you and your baby, and offer helpful suggestions to fix any common issues you might encounter.
Lactation consultants can also help you with breastfeeding challenges, such as low milk supply, painful breastfeeding, poor bonding with your child, and other common problems. They can also help you prepare for breastfeeding in the best way possible. This includes helping you create a plan for when you go back to work and finding the best positioning for breastfeeding.
How to Find a Lactation Consultant?
If you are experiencing breastfeeding challenges, your doctor or midwife may suggest that you consult with a lactation consultant. If you haven’t seen a professional for prenatal care, you can ask your OB-GYN for a recommendation. You can also search for consultants in your area. It’s a good idea to interview potential lactation consultants by phone or email to find out their experience, training, and style. Be sure to ask about their rates and what they charge for different services, such as home or hospital visits.
If you’re having breastfeeding challenges, it’s best to see a lactation consultant as soon as possible. Some issues, such as low milk supply, can be helped with special exercises, such as increasing the number of times you breastfeed your child each day. Other problems, particularly if they stem from improper breastfeeding techniques, may take longer to correct. In these cases, a lactation consultant will likely recommend seeing an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) lactation consultant sooner rather than later.
Finding the Right One for You
Before you begin meeting with lactation consultants, take some time to reflect on what you want out of the process. Are you hoping to correct an issue with low milk supply or improve your overall breastfeeding experience? What is your budget? Are there any specific hours of the day that you would prefer to meet? Do you want someone who practices locally or someone who is available via phone or the internet?
In addition to the above factors, you should also consider your own personality and how you typically interact with others. For example, if you’re someone who has a lot of questions, you may be more comfortable with someone who offers a bit more one-on-one attention. On the other hand, if you tend to prefer people who offer more general advice and suggestions, you may be more comfortable with a lactation consultant who specializes in group sessions.
The Bottom Line
Whether you’re having breastfeeding issues or you’re simply looking for a new mother’s guide to breastfeeding, a lactation consultant can help. You can find a lactation consultant through your doctor, local breastfeeding support group, or online. While you can also find information in books and online, it is best to talk with an expert who can help tailor a plan just for you.