Why Work with a Lactation Consultant?
All babies naturally know how to breastfeed, right? Wrong! Breastfeeding is healthy and natural, but it doesn’t come naturally to all moms and babies. Even women who’ve successfully breastfed other children can be surprised when they have trouble breastfeeding their new babies.
That’s where lactation consultants come in. A lactation consultant is a trained expert in all things breastfeeding and will work with you to reach your personal breastfeeding goals. No matter what your concern or breastfeeding goal, a lactation consultant may provide the information, support, and advice you need.
Why work with a lactation consultant?
Some of the many concerns a lactation consultant can help with include:
baby refusing to breastfeed
milk production
baby falling asleep during feedings
trouble with breastfeeding positions
breast or nipple pain
physical or emotional barriers to success
baby not reaching weight gain milestones
pumping milk
engorged breasts
weaning
Every baby is different, so your breastfeeding experiences may be different with each of your children. Your lactation consultant is your coach and your cheerleader, guiding you at every step of the way.
Before the first sign of trouble, or even before your baby is born, it’s a good idea to connect with a lactation consultant. That way, you’ll have a support system in place if or when you need it. Feeling unable to feed your baby is scary, and you’ll want help right away.
Related: Is Your Nursing Posture Triggering a Stress Response?
Many hospitals have lactation specialists on staff. So, if you give birth in a hospital setting, you may get to see a lactation consultant before you go home with your baby. You can also contact a lactation consultant for in-home or telemedicine visits. No matter whether you meet in your home, birthing center, or hospital, insurance often covers some or all of your sessions with a lactation consultant.
The La Leche League is an excellent resource for finding information and connecting with lactation consultants in your area. If you live in our around Chattanooga, we suggest contacting Ashley Lucas, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, at Chattanooga Lactation, LLC.