What is a Lactation Consultant?

A Lactation Consultant is someone specially trained in the specifics of breastfeeding and lactation.  This is someone who can help a mother learn to breastfeed and troubleshoot problems.  There are many types of lactation consultants with varying amounts of training.  I am an Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant. This means, on top of my bachelors degree with health science classes, I completed and passed a 90 credit hour training course specific to lactation as well as 1000 clinical hours of hands on lactation consulting in various situations.  After that I applied for and passed an internationally certified board test on lactation.  This gives me the ability to assess breastfeeding and lactation, assist you in making changes to improve latch, comfort, milk transfer, and milk production. I also can refer you to other specialists if there is a potential problem beyond my scope of practice.   A lactation consultant (IBCLC) does not diagnose or prescribe, but can advise when symptoms appear pathological and need referred to a specialist.

 

An IBCLC can help with:

Positioning

Latch

Milk Supply

Understanding Babies Cues

Pumping

Bottle feeding

Proper Formula feeding

Trouble shooting in cases of mastitis, plugged ducts, sore nipples, etc. 

Referals to specialists if we are unable to solve an issue.  

Introducing Foods

Weaning

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As an IBCLC it is my passion to help women breastfeed their babies how they want to. Breastfeeding looks different for everyone. Sadly, in today's society women are not fully supported in realizing their breastfeeding goals.  Women have not been able to witness generations of breastfeeding women, it is a lost art that many woman are now fighting hard to bring back.  Breast milk is the optimal food for almost all babies, and breastfeeding is the natural way to feed a baby for humans, but that doesn't mean it is always easy.  Even when it goes well, mother's may need encouragement to solidify their belief in themselves.  I believe God created woman to be able to breastfeed her babies; to bond, to nourish, and to give their babies the best start in life.  I believe in giving you evidence based care and I am here to help you navigate your path in this.  

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If, for whatever reason, a woman cannot or chooses not to breastfeed her baby, I am here to support her in her journey and find the best alternative for her and her baby.  

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Early breastfeeding and bonding lays down strong roots for a mother's relationship with her child and confidence as a mother later on.  It is a beautiful blessing; the connection to your baby, to all mother's before you, to your purpose.  It is a joy and something to be honored.  That is why I am inspired to help you grow your roots and flourish as the beautiful mother you were created to be!

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Luke 11:27

"...Blessed is the womb that bore you and the breasts at which you nursed"

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Psalm 22:9

" Yet you are he who took me from the womb; you made me trust you at my mother's breasts"

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