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A Prenatal Lactation Consultation with me is like taking your own personalized breastfeeding class. It's all about you and your needs! You’ll have an opportunity to share your breastfeeding goals and particular needs, so that we can tailor the session to include all the information you will need to get off to your best start. We will discuss what to expect during the first few days after birth and once you return home if you’re birthing in a hospital. Some topics we usually cover at our Prenatal Consultation: How do I build my support team? What products should I have in hand? Is there anything I can do to prepare in advance of the birth? Is there anything about my medical history or anatomy that may affect breastfeeding? When can I expect my milk to come in? Will I have enough milk for my baby? How do I know if the latch is good? How often and for how long should I nurse my baby? Positioning so you and baby are comfortable. How can my partner help my breastfeeding efforts? When to schedule a follow-up consultation? ​ A prenatal lactation consultation can be extremely helpful for all mamas, but especially for those expecting multiples. Mamas with certain medical conditions such as a history of PCOS, fertility treatments, breast surgery or trauma, difficulty breastfeeding a first baby, flat or inverted nipples, or any mama or baby with medical issues that are of concern. We can work together to identify obstacles and create a plan to maximize your success with feeding.

Some mamas find it overwhelming to determine what kind of lactation support would be the best for their situation. If needed, we do offer an initial complementary 15 min call to help you figure this out. ​ Keep in mind that full initial appointments are generally in-person (at the clinic, or in your home) and are usually 90 min in length. Follow up appointments can be in-person or telephone and we can decide together what kind of visit best suits your needs.

Prior to your first appointment, you will be sent some basic forms to complete and bring with you to your first appointment. At the beginning of your appointment we will get to know each other a bit. This allows me to understand your goals and help customize the strategies we will use to meet your goals. Aspects of your medical history may be explored in more detail as well as the issue that you are experiencing. With permission we will gently examine both you and your baby including a baby weight check. You’ll be invited to breastfeed your baby just like you have been at home, allowing for me to assess the feeding in action. Collaboratively we will make a unique plan of care for you and your baby. This is a great opportunity to ask questions that you may have and tweak the plan before leaving. Depending on your needs, you will be provided with a written plan of care with a follow up appointment as needed. You may be referred to other health care providers, and a referral will be provided if this is necessary.

Some breastfeeding issues can be resolved quickly and easily with basic support, while others require a more in-depth assessment and ongoing support with an evolving plan of care. Unfortunately many health care providers are limited in time to spend with breastfeeding mothers whose issues can’t be resolved quickly. It should be said that all breastfeeding supporters likely have something to offer to each mother-baby but truly responsive lactation support is not a ‘one size fits all’ type of care. Sometimes mamas might benefit from different styles of lactation care or a fresh perspective that can be found from alternative supports to the ones they are currently using. Professionals understand this and respect mothers’ choices to determine their own best care. For thorough, up to date lactation support, especially for more complex issues, care from an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is considered the gold standard.

Consultation fees depend on the type of visit and location of visit. You can feel confident that my fees are consistent with my LC/RN colleagues and reflect my years of experience. If you have private insurance, some lactation consultations may be covered. Home visits are subject to additional travel costs depending on location. I am happy to discuss my fees when we connect at our complimentary initial call.

This will depend on what the issue you or your baby are experiencing. ​ My role as your Lactation Consultant is to assess you and your baby, provide education and support, then work with you to create a personalized plan of care. The hard work occurs following this appointment as you and your baby work together. Some issues can be resolved simply, while others take time and continued support. If you aren’t sure about what appointment type or length of visit would be most helpful as a follow up, then do not hesitate to contact me via the mode we will discuss in our plan of care.