Lactation Consultants and Services - Stork Advisor
Breastfeeding

Lactation Consultants and Services

Feature image

Did you know breastfed babies can have IQ scores about 8.5 points higher than others? They also face fewer risks of diabetes, childhood cancers, allergies, and metabolic diseases. The benefits of breastfeeding help both babies and mothers. Still, some nursing mothers face challenges and need professional help. Luckily, expert breastfeeding support is available at many health facilities.

Dr. Stan, a board-certified physician and Dr. Cheryl a certified nurse midwife, answer questions weekly on StorkAdvisor. Please submit your questions and concerns. Your question might be chosen for the live YouTube event. This hour-long weekly event aims to assist pregnant women and will be starting soon.

Key Takeaway

  • Lactation services are available at most hospitals, birth centers, through local Doulas and other community resources where you live.

Email: drstan@storkadvisor.com Visit: www.storkadvisor.com Call: +1-800-123-4567 Follow us: @StorkAdvisor on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook

What is a Lactation Consultant?

Lactation consultants are crucial for moms-to-be and new moms. They offer key support and advice for breastfeeding. This helps both mom and baby succeed right after birth and for the months to come.

Definitions and Role

A lactation consultant knows a lot about breastfeeding. They work in hospitals, private offices, or community health centers. Their job is to solve common breastfeeding problems. This includes improving milk supply, addressing baby’s weight issues, and teaching how to latch on properly. Breastfeeding has been shown to offer many benefits to both mothers and babies, including lower rates of infections and chronic diseases.

Qualifications and Certifications

To become a board certified lactation consultant though, one must undergo extensive training and meet certain education standards. They need to get certified by the IBLCE (International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners) or other less known boards for CLC (Certified Lactation Counsellor) and CBC (Certified Breastfeeding Counsellor). This involves keeping up with new information every year and taking exams. These professionals are well-trained to tackle complex breastfeeding issues.

Studies show moms with lactation consultant support are more likely to breastfeed exclusively for six months. This help leads to better infant weight gain and feeding habits. It shows how vital lactation specialists are for mother and baby’s health.

New moms can find a certified lactation consultant through their pediatrician or various healthcare providers. Nowadays, many insurance plans cover lactation consulting, making it easier for moms to get the help they need.

Benefits of Seeing a Lactation Consultant

Talking to a lactation consultant can greatly improve your breastfeeding journey. These experts offer personalized advice to help you succeed in breastfeeding. They tackle problems before they become serious.

Better Breastfeeding Practices

Seeing a lactation consultant leads to improved breastfeeding habits. Moms who work with a certified lactation consultant are more likely to start and keep breastfeeding. A large study showed that their chances of breastfeeding success were higher. “Meeting with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) can help mothers overcome common challenges and achieve a healthy breastfeeding relationship,” says Dr. Stan, a board-certified physician and surgeon. Regular meetings with a consultant can solve issues such as latching problems and nipple pain. This helps your baby get the best nutrition and strengthens your bond with your baby.

Emotional and Physical Support

Lactation consultants give crucial emotional and physical support. About 71% of women feel better about breastfeeding because of this support. This help eases stress and provides solutions for physical breastfeeding problems.

Lactation consultants offer tailored care plans. They help new parents understand breastfeeding better. Their support makes the breastfeeding journey smoother and more rewarding for both mom and baby.

Here at StorkAdvisor we value your questions. They might be discussed live on YouTube. Join us weekly to get support for your breastfeeding journey.

Types of Breastfeeding Support Offered

Breastfeeding support is vital for new moms. It comes in forms like in-person lactation support and virtual breastfeeding counselling. These options help modern families get professional advice, offering flexibility and thorough care.

In-Person Consultations

In-person lactation support means meeting with a consultant face-to-face. This can happen at a clinic, hospital, or the mother’s home. These sessions offer help with latching, feeding positions, and solving any issues right away.

The International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLC) set high standards in this area. They offer great breastfeeding support, thanks to their 90 hours of specific training. They’re equipped to tackle all kinds of breastfeeding challenges.

Virtual Consultations

Virtual breastfeeding counselling uses tech to reach anyone, anywhere. Through telehealth, moms can get expert advice with just a click. These online sessions can handle all from first assessments to ongoing support.

Telehealth includes video chats, so consultants can see and guide moms. This method works well when you can’t meet in person. It’s great during a pandemic or for moms living far from a clinic.

Now, many insurance plans cover telehealth services for nursing mothers. It’s affordable for many families. The easy scheduling and the comfort of being at home make it a stress-free choice.

Remember that you can also contact a health care professional at StorkAdvisor!

Common Challenges Addressed by Lactation Consultants

Lactation consultants help moms with breastfeeding issues. Over 80% of American women start breastfeeding. But less than a third keep it up for the recommended time. They offer support to make breastfeeding healthy and comfortable for mother and child.

Nipple Pain and Soreness

Nipple pain and soreness are top breastfeeding problems. They can come from bad latch, too much feeding, or infections. Lactation consultants have ways to ease the pain, like new positions, nipple shields, and special creams. Fixing these issues early helps a lot..

Milk Supply Issues

Many moms have too little or too much milk. Fixing this starts with finding the cause, which could be hormone issues or not enough feeding times. Consultants can help with feeding schedules, pumping, and diet changes. Their full check-ups fix these issues, helping moms breastfeed longer.

Latching Difficulties

Fixing latch problems is key for effective breastfeeding. Issues like tongue-tie or bad feeding positions can make latching hard. Consultants do exams and watch feedings to give advice for a better latch. This is crucial for comfort and making sure the baby gets enough nutrition.

What to Expect During a Lactation Consultation

A lactation consultation is a big step in your breastfeeding journey. It helps to know what will happen during the session to ease any worries. This knowledge ensures you get the most from the meeting.

Initial Assessment

Your first meeting with a lactation consultant will review your and your baby’s health history. It lasts about 90 minutes. You’ll talk about your breastfeeding goals and any challenges you face, including medical concerns like diabetes or past surgeries.

Consultation Topics:

  • How the breasts make milk
  • What could make breastfeeding hard
  • Expressing milk before birth
  • Skin-to-skin contact
  • The good things about breastfeeding
  • Using a breast pump
  • How to keep breastfeeding when you go back to work

Weighted feeds are key in the consultation, showing how much weight gain and much milk your baby gets. It can be helpful to have your partner or a support person join you to enhance support during feedings.

Personalized Care Plan

After the first meeting, your consultant will make a care plan just for you. This may include tips for a better latch, how to breastfeed without hurting, and how to use a breast pump right.

This plan might also suggest how to feed your baby extra if needed, through syringe or bottle. You might need more sessions, especially if your consultant works with insurance, which usually limits visits to one hour.

It helps to have your questions ready to make the most of your time. For virtual consultations, having someone to help with the camera can make things go smoother.

In the end, the goal of the breastfeeding consultation is to give you the skills and knowledge for a successful breastfeeding journey.

Finding the Right Lactation Consultant

Finding the right lactation consultant is key for good breastfeeding. With the right general breastfeeding support, you can overcome breastfeeding challenges. Here’s how to find your breastfeeding expert:

Verify Qualifications: Make sure your lactation consultant is certified by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) or another certification specifically for lactation. This means they have the needed skills to help you properly.

Assess Compatibility: Your general breastfeeding support goals are important. You want a consultant who gets your goals. This helps in getting personalized and useful support.

Utilize Hospital Resources: Check if your hospital offers lactation consultants. Many are covered by insurance.

Contact Insurance Companies: A lot of insurance plans cover lactation services. Call your provider to find out which lactation consultants work that are covered and how to ensure coverage.

Seek Personal Referrals: Ask people you trust for consultant recommendations. They can share their own experiences with you. This can help you make a better choice.

Don’t forget to speak with family or friends who have successfully breastfed their babies!

When to Seek Help from a Lactation Consultant

Knowing the best time to seek expert advice can greatly improve breastfeeding. Help is available during pregnancy and after your baby is born. Lactation consultants offer specialized help for your breastfeeding needs. This guide highlights when to get help to make a big difference.

During Pregnancy

Talking to a prenatal lactation consultant before your baby is born helps prepare you. It is important to know what challenges might come and how to deal with them. The experts at the Women’s Pavilion at Wooster Community Hospital are trained to help. They teach breastfeeding techniques, how to latch properly, and deal with milk supply.

After Birth

After your baby arrives, getting help with breastfeeding is key. Early support can fix problems like pain, bad latching, and milk issues. Dealing with these early can stop bigger problems later. Signs you might need a consultant include swollen breasts, mastitis, or sore nipples.

Personal breastfeeding help is available in many places, a local hospital or pediatric clinic. Another very helpful organization is La Leche League which is worldwide organization to educate and support breastfeeding moms. You can get help in the hospital, as an outpatient, or through telehealth. Insurance may cover these services.

Insurance and Cost Considerations

Exploring breastfeeding support insurance coverage is key when looking at lactation consultation costs. There are specific government legislation that requires insurers to cover lactation support and counselling. Still, there are important details to know about your insurance coverage as support type varies.

Before booking a lactation consultation, know the possible out-of-pocket costs. Codes like Z39.1 and O92.70 are used for billing maternal lactation services. For infants, codes like P92.5 are used. How these services are billed can change your expenses.

Breastfeeding – Lactation Consultants and Services

Lactation consultants and breastfeeding educational

Overview of Available Services

Lactation consultants offer many services for mothers and babies. They provide:

  • Interactive sessions on breastfeeding techniques.
  • Personalized consultations in different formats.
  • Help with latching, milk supply, and nipple pain.
  • Support for all parents.

How to Access These Services

Finding lactation services is easy. Here’s how:

  • Booking Appointments: Schedule through hospital staff or networks like The Lactation Network.
  • Utilizing Community Resources: Connect with organizations like La Leche League for support.
  • Educational Workshops: Join classes at institutions like Novant Health for more help.

Using lactation services and breastfeeding educational resources can greatly help your journey continue breastfeeding. There are many ways to get the help you and your baby need to thrive.

Postpartum Breastfeeding Education

Postpartum breastfeeding education offers key knowledge and confidence for new moms. It uses classes, workshops, and online resources. You can choose from in-person or digital help to support your breastfeeding journey.

Classes and Workshops

Many hospitals, birth centers and Doulas offer breastfeeding classes led by certified lactation consultants. Topics include feeding techniques, pumping, and storing breast milk. These classes help you learn to breastfeed, even with special care needs or multiples.

Certified lactation consultants and nurses teach these classes. They can address complex issues like NICU feeding or past breast surgeries. Their support and training is valuable for handling breastfeeding challenges.

Online Resources

For flexible learning, digital lactation education provides many online resources. These include webinars, video tutorials, and virtual consultations. It’s especially useful for those without easy access to classes or who prefer online learning.

Remember that StorkAdvisor is also a great resource for education and support!

Using both breastfeeding classes and digital lactation education gives rounded support. It helps you get immediate advice on breastfeeding, from latching to milk supply. Mixing in-person and digital options boosts your confidence and breastfeeding success.

Utilizing both in-person and online education supports your needs and well-being. If you’re at Northwestern Medicine, explore their breastfeeding programs. Comprehensive education enhances your postpartum experience, benefiting you and your baby.

Breast Pump Rentals and Guidance

Finding the right breast pump is key to successful breastfeeding. The place that you receive your prenatal care will help moms choose between the different breast pumps that are available through your insurance carrier.

The Benefits of Breast Pumps

Breast pumps give moms flexibility and convenience. They help keep milk supply up, even when moms go back to work

How to Choose the Right Pump

Think about how often you’ll use the pump and your lifestyle when choosing a breast pump. Electric pumps are best for regular use. For less frequent needs, manual pumps might be enough..

An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) offers expert breast pump assistance. These groups and breastfeeding counsellors are a valuable source of advice and support.

  • Consider your pumping frequency.
  • Evaluate portability needs.
  • Check insurance coverage for pump purchase.

Returning to Work While Breastfeeding

Going back to work after having a baby can be tough for moms who breastfeed. With the right plan and support, moms can keep feeding their babies breast milk. Let’s explore how to keep up your milk supply and plan your pumping at work.

Managing Milk Supply

It’s important to keep producing enough milk when working. Start pumping and storing milk before you return to work, says Mary McLaughlin, BSN, RN, CCCE, IBCLC. By pumping or breastfeeding as often as you did before, you can keep your milk supply steady. You can keep fresh milk at room temperature for up to four hours, in a cool bag for a day, and in the fridge for up to four days.

Having support at work is key for breastfeeding moms. If a company has over 50 workers, the law requires them to give time and space (not a bathroom) for milk expression. This means moms can pump two to three times in an 8-hour workday.

Planning Your Pumping Schedule

Planning when to pump at work can make returning easier. Introduce bottle feeding before heading back to work for a smoother transition. Aim to pump two to three times during an 8-hour day, taking 10 to 15 minutes each time.

Moms can use a communal fridge or a personal cooler for storing milk. Planning a detailed pumping schedule helps keep your milk supply constant and reduces stress for both mom and baby.

Coming back to work slowly helps with adjusting and balance. Talk to your employer about support for breastfeeding, like private spaces for pumping. Using visual reminders of your baby can help with milk let-down. Thinking about your baby’s needs and careful planning can make breastfeeding and working easier.

Weaning Guidance from Lactation Consultants

Weaning is an important step in the breastfeeding journey. Lactation consultants have the know-how to make this change easy and worry-free. They know when it’s time to wean and the best ways to do it.

Timing and Signs for Weaning

When to start weaning varies by family. Signs a baby might be ready include shorter breastfeeding times, getting easily distracted, or wanting solid foods. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests mixing breast milk and solid foods until a child turns one. For babies under one year, use stored milk, donor milk, or formula as a replacement.

Watch for your baby’s emotional and physical signs. If your baby wakes up more at night, feels more anxious, or shows mood swings, slow down the weaning. Talk to a lactation consultant for advice suited to your child’s needs.

Methods for Gradual Weaning

Experts recommend gradual weaning because it’s easier for mom and baby. A good tip is to drop one breastfeeding session every three to five days. This method helps the body adapt and avoids issues like engorgement. Since prolactin levels are higher at night, consider starting with night feedings. Working moms may find partial weaning useful, keeping some breastfeeding sessions while introducing the bottle.

There are two weaning methods: baby-led and parent-led. Either way, dropping sessions gradually, shortening them, and increasing time between them can help. If your baby doesn’t like bottles, try using syringes, spoons, or cups. Emotional ups and downs are normal during weaning, and it’s okay to seek mental health professional support.

Lactation consultants give tailored support for a smooth weaning journey.

FAQ

What is a Lactation Consultant?

A lactation consultant is a health pro focusing on breastfeeding. They help with how to nurse babies and fix problems like swelling, issues with expressing milk, and latching.

What qualifications and certifications do lactation consultants have?

They train deeply to solve breastfeeding problems and are certified. This shows they offer top-notch support for nursing.

What are the benefits of seeing a lactation consultant?

Seeing one can make nursing better, give support, and help moms and babies bond. It also ensures babies are well-fed and moms are comfortable.

What types of breastfeeding support are offered by lactation consultants?

They offer face-to-face and online meetings. This means help is available no matter where you live or if there’s a pandemic.

What common challenges do lactation consultants address?

They tackle sore and cracked nipples, milk issues, and latching problems. They also help babies with special conditions.

What can I expect during a lactation consultation?

An expert will check the health of both mom and baby and see how nursing is going. Then, they create a care plan just for them.

How can I find the right lactation consultant?

Look for someone certified and who fits your goals. Hospitals and insurance can suggest consultants.

When should I seek help from a lactation consultant?

Start before baby comes to prepare. After birth, quick help can stop bigger problems.

Are lactation consultations covered by insurance?

Insurance may cover costs, fully or partly. Asking your provider can give you details. Some services might be cheaper through online care if insurance falls short.

What services do lactation consultants offer?

They offer lessons on nursing to taking care of tough problems. You can get help through telehealth or in hospitals after having a baby.

What postpartum breastfeeding education is available?

Moms can learn through classes, workshops, and online. This helps them breastfeed successfully.

How can lactation consultants assist with breast pump rentals and guidance?

They help moms pick and use pumps. Renting is an option for a steady milk supply, especially when going back to work. The choice of pump depends on use frequency and lifestyle.

How can working mothers manage breastfeeding when returning to work?

Lactation experts advise working moms on keeping milk supply and planning pumping times. They support moms breastfeeding families and babies.

What guidance is available for weaning from breastfeeding?

Consultants give tips on when and how to gently stop breastfeeding. Their advice makes this change easier for both mom and baby.

Related Posts

What About a Pacifier

What About a Pacifier

Aug 17, 2021

Breast Infections

Breast Infections

Aug 17, 2021

Getting Enough Milk

How Will I Know that my Baby is Getting Enough Milk?

Aug 17, 2021

cheryl
Author
Dr. Cheryl Sharp, Chief Content Officer
Cheryl is a midwife and women's health nurse practitioner who has been caring for women, newborns, and families more than 30 years. She views the opportunity to journey with women through their pregnancy and beyond as a sacred privilege.

Connect & Follow

Recent Posts