frequently asked questions
Why would I need a lactation consultant?
With the internet and social media at our fingertips, it’s hard to know what breastfeeding is supposed to “look and feel” like. Not one baby and mother are alike so seeking advice from a lactation consultant is a wonderful way to blur the “ noise” from the internet and other sources and get the facts straight! Some of the most common requests and concerns I receive for lactation services consist of, painful breastfeeding, difficulty latching, my breasts are engorged, how do I control an oversupply, my baby is very gassy and uncomfortable, is my baby getting enough milk, how and when do I pump, I’m not sure if my latch is correct, my baby is very sleepy, my nipples are cracked and bleeding, i’m going back to work soon and need to build up a supply, how do I safely store milk, how do I introduce formula, how do I introduce a bottle, what is a tongue/lip tie- i think my baby might have one, introducing solids, and much much more! No question or concern is too small! Reach out to me with anything!
What is an IBCLC?
International Board Certified Lactation Consultants, IBCLC’s, are clinicians who have received advanced training and education in all fields related to breast anatomy and physiology, infant oral anatomy and feeding, lactation and the complex issues and challenges that may be encountered with each. We are trained to teach mothers how to feed their babies and recognize when adjustments could be made. If you are experiencing any pain or discomfort, we can assist with proper positioning and latching techniques and offer tips to address breastfeeding concerns. If weight gain is a concern, we can form a care plan that will prioritize the health and well being of the baby.
What is an IBCLC’s scope of practice?
An IBCLC can assess an infants oral anatomy, analyze breast anatomy, observe feeding and offer a plan of care to address any breastfeeding concern. We can also offer suggestions on alternative care such as Physical Therapy, Cranial Sacral Therapy, and others as well as communicate to the infants pediatrician, a care plan.
As stated by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners, IBCLE, IBCLC’s function and contribute as members of the maternal-child health team. They provide care in a variety of settings, while making appropriate referrals to other health professionals and community support resources. Working together with mothers, families, policymakers and society, IBCLC certificates provide expert breastfeeding and lactation care, promote changes that support breastfeeding and help reduce the risks of not breastfeeding.
What if I need further support outside of your scope of practice?
The community of women’s wellness advocates/clinicians is beautiful and what I’d like to call a family! I can refer you to a number of different providers based on the speciality that you need. Lactation may be one piece of a puzzle so having a supportive “family” to refer you to, is extremely important.
Do you take insurance?
I do not accept insurance at this time. However- under the Affordable Care Act, the law requires insurance companies to cover pre and postnatal lactation services and counseling in the US. See the link in the following question and be sure to reach out to your insurance company to find out more!
At the time of the consult, I collect payment upfront and provide you with an itemized receipt ,“Super Bill” to submit to your insurance company. I cannot guarantee, though, that a consultation will be covered because every insurance company and plan are different.
I’d like to know my rights as a breastfeeding mother. Can you help me?
Of course! Here is the toolkit from the National Women’s Law Center. This outlines all rights, as a breast-feeding mother, under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in the US.
What are your prices?
My fee is $350 for the initial breastfeeding consultation (up to 2 hours). I charge $300 for a follow-up, (up to 1 hour).
Should I take a breastfeeding class while pregnant? if so, why?
Sure! The classes provide you with great information for when your baby is born. You will understand how our bodies make milk, what to expect once your baby arrives and for the first few days and even up to a year plus. Knowing what is normal and what is not can prepare you to make the well informed decisions should something come up. You can never be too prepared, so I say YES!
I'm not local for a home consult, what are my options?
No problem! Send me an email and we can set up a time for a virtual consult! Our video conferencing is through GSuite, and is HIPPA compliant! After conducting our video conference- if a referral is needed to provide further, in person, assistance, I can guide you in finding a local professional.
I only have a few questions, may I reach out?
Of course! Send me an email and see the answer above!
Why shouldn't I just look breastfeeding information up online?
You certainly can ( as well all do) but the source is extremely important. Some information on the internet is based on opinion, and other information is formed on research as well as evidence-based data. Also, not one baby/ mother are alike, so the advice given online, may not be what’s best. It is difficult to publish information and take medical history, diet, environment etc. into consideration. Keep that in mind when searching the internet.
What is research and evidence- based data?
Research and evidence-based data is information that is peer reviewed and research based on scientific principles. The strongest information is provided by systematic review of randomized, blinded, controlled trials.
I wasn’t able to breastfeed my first child. Is it possible to breast-feed my 2nd?
Absolutely! Each and every baby is different. For many reasons women often times did not meet their breastfeeding goals and may not have had the proper resources to turn to. I’m here to help try and meet those goals and guide you through the process!