When should I contact a IBCLC Lactation Consultant?

Its EASY!  ANYTIME you are unsure about your breastfeeding journey! There is no right, nor wrong, just about you and your baby.

So many families whether first time parents or experienced parents receive SO much conflicting advice and/or discouraging advice on feeding their baby.

What they are really after is expert up- to- date information and non- judgmental support.

These few simple points below are great reasons to seek some additional support to ensure your breastfeeding journey starts smoothly and continues after birth and beyond for you and your baby.

-cries “a lot”

-spits up “a lot”

-feeds “all the time”

-is fussy “all the time”

These 4 “a lot and all the time” descriptions may indicate a latch or transference issue for your baby and most of the time is not “something” they just grow out of. Babies are incredible “compensators” and that is different to be “competent” at their job at hand which is to feed.

Why a IBCLC and not a Lactation Consultant?

IBCLCs are:

• Recognized the world over as possessing the only standardized, board-certified lactation credential available
• Knowledgeable about up-to-date evidence-based practices in lactation as demonstrated through a rigorous exam process and re-certification every five years.
• Experienced in a wide variety of complex breastfeeding situations
• Competent to assist mothers with establishing and sustaining breastfeeding, even in the midst of difficulties and high-risk situations that can arise
• Sensitive to the needs of both mothers and children as they work to help mothers meet their breastfeeding goals
• Ethical in their practice, abiding by Standards of Practice and a Code of Ethics and working within a defined Scope of Practice.

So please let me help you if you:

-feeling stressed around feeds

-think your supply is low (most of the time it is not)

-think your supply is to high

-fast or slow let down

-flat inverted nipples

-sore nipples

-breast implants

-returning to work.

IBCLC- stands for International Board Certified Lactation Consultant.