Lactation consultants (LCs) are experts in helping new mothers produce milk and feed their babies. When you’re pregnant, it can be challenging to understand all the information about labor and delivery, breastfeeding, caring for your newborn, and everything in between. You may have questions about your baby’s feeding habits or how to increase your milk supply. A lactation consultant can answer these questions and many more.
Depending on where you live, there may be different locations that offer this service. Here is what you need to know as a first-time mom-to-be if you want to take advantage of a lactation consultation when you give birth.
What is a Lactation Consultant?
A lactation consultant is an expert who can help you breastfeed and breastfeed successfully. Lactation consultants are trained professionals who know how to help you increase your milk supply, deal with challenges and set you up for long-term breastfeeding success. A lactation consultant may also be called an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant), but for the purposes of this article, we’ll just call them lactation consultants. You can have a lactation consultant come to your house or meet with you at a breastfeeding clinic or office. They often work with pregnant women, new mothers, and women who are breastfeeding twins.
Why See a Lactation Consultant?
A lactation consultant can help you find the right breastfeeding position for you and your baby. They can guide you through the process of nursing your baby and help you troubleshoot any challenges. Lactation consultants are versed in the latest research and can answer your questions about breastfeeding, like how to recognize if your baby is getting enough milk or if your baby needs to be supplemented with formula. You may also want to see a lactation consultant if you have a low milk supply or if you have trouble breastfeeding.
How to Find a Lactation Consultant
Most hospitals have lactation consultants on staff, so you can ask when you go to deliver your baby. You can also call your local breastfeeding clinic to see if they offer lactation consultation for moms. You can also find lactation consultants online and make an appointment for a consultation. Keep in mind, however, that it may be difficult to find an affordable lactation consultant if you don’t have insurance. When you’re looking for a lactation consultant, make sure to ask about their educational background, credentials, and experience. You can also ask about their fees and whether or not they take insurance.
How Will a Lactation Consultant Help?
A lactation consultant can help you set up a breastfeeding plan. They can show you how to position your baby to breastfeed and, with the right latch, they can help your baby get enough milk. A lactation consultant can also help you troubleshoot any issues you’re having, such as a low milk supply or painful breastfeeding. A lactation consultant can also show you how to feed your baby with a bottle in case you need to supplement with formula or you’re going back to work and want to find a daycare that will take your baby. If you’re having trouble breastfeeding, a lactation consultant can help you figure out why and then find solutions. They can recommend breastfeeding positions and solutions for a low milk supply.
Tips for Increasing Your Milk Supply
If you’re having trouble increasing your milk supply, there are some things you can do. First, if you’re breastfeeding, try to avoid supplements. If you need to give your baby formula, try to give it when you’re not breastfeeding so you don’t pass the extra calories to your baby. You can also try some herbal supplements. These can help boost your supply and can be found at your local pharmacy. Remember that breast is best, and you can use these supplements to bridge the gap while you work on increasing your milk supply. You can also try pumping or hand-expressing while you’re breastfeeding. This can help increase your supply and give you an extra boost to keep up with your baby.
Conclusion
Lactation consultants are experts in helping new mothers produce milk and feed their babies. Whether you need help with breastfeeding, increasing your milk supply, or finding ways to supplement with formula, a lactation consultant can help. You can find a lactation consultant by contacting your local breastfeeding clinic or by asking your hospital for recommendations.
