The Breastfeeding Clinic & Research Center
The Top 10 Reasons to See a Lactation Consultant
Dr. Lisa Russell Miller is an Internationally Board-Certified Lactation Consultant and Breastfeeding Researcher in North Carolina. Dr. Miller specializes in medically complex breastfeeding cases.
Lisa Russell Miller, D.HSc, IBCLC
1. Difficult latch
Breastfeeding is a skill that develops over time. Many people find that it takes about 3 weeks before breastfeeding feels natural. Some moms & babies breastfeed without difficulty after birth but struggle when mom’s breasts begin filling with milk.
A difficult delivery, flat or inverted nipples and even the structure of a baby’s mouth can affect the latch. And, babies born prematurely may not be able to breastfeed well until close to their actual due date.
Many people need help with positioning & latching their baby. A lactation consultant is trained to identify issues causing a difficult or painful latch and to assist with improving it.
2. Nipple or Breast pain
Nipple soreness in the first week of breastfeeding may be normal. However; cracks, bleeding or blisters are not! Pain or redness can also be a sign of a clogged duct or an infection in the breast.
A lactation consultant is trained to identify causes of nipple & breast pain. Once the source of the pain is identified, a lactation consultant can assist with a plan to alleviate the discomfort.
3. Poor weight gain
Many babies lose weight after birth but begin re-gaining weight by day 3 of life. Five to 7 ounces of weight gain per week during the first 4 months of life is normal. Babies should double their birth weight between 4 and 6 months of age.
If a breastfed baby is not gaining weight normally, a lactation consultant can help determine the reason and provide a feeding plan to ensure an adequate weight gain without interrupting breastfeeding.
4. Early Hospital Discharge
People often leave the hospital or birthing center very quickly after giving birth, even before their milk has come in. Some people only see a lactation consultant once or twice during this time and leave with lots of unanswered questions or concerns.
Breastfeeding is a journey that may continue for months or years. It is not uncommon to need additional breastfeeding education and support beyond the first 2 or 3 days of life.
5. milk supply concerns
Most people make the right amount of milk for their baby, but many people worry that they won’t make enough milk. Although this is rarely the case, a low milk supply can occur for various reasons. Another milk supply concern is making too much milk. This can cause breast discomfort and a fussy baby.
A lactation consultant is trained to identify and correct breastfeeding issues caused by an under- or over-supply.
6. Engorgement
Too much milk or other fluids in the breast causes breast engorgement and can lead to latching difficulty and pain. Left untreated, engorgement can cause a breast infection or low milk supply.
Many lactation consultants are trained to perform lymphatic drainage massage. This gentle technique helps soften the breasts and improve milk flow.
January, 2024
The Breastfeeding Clinic & Research Center
7. Pumping education
Most people will need to use a breast pump during their breastfeeding journey. Unfortunately, many people receive a boxed breast pump without knowing how to assemble or use it. A visit to a lactation consultant is an excellent opportunity to learn about pumping and storing milk. A lactation consultant can also assist with properly fitting flanges.
8. returning to work
People are often anxious about maintaining their breastfeeding relationship after returning to work. Lactation consultants can help develop individualized plans for pumping and introducing a bottle. They can also provide information on paced bottle feeding and introducing baby food, when appropriate.
9. Nipple shield use
Nipple shields are necessary at times, especially for preterm babies and babies who can’t otherwise latch to the breast. Some people use a nipple shield for a short amount of time. Others use a nipple shield throughout their breastfeeding journey. Still, the use of a nipple shield can be a sign of an unresolved breastfeeding issue. A lactation consultant can help identify the underlying problem and assist with correcting the issue, if possible.
10. Reassurance
Breastfeeding can be hard and confusing. Many people stop breastfeeding before they are ready to because they are worried their baby isn’t getting full at the breast.
Lactation consultants are breastfeeding experts. They can identify and treat many breastfeeding concerns. But of equal importance, many times lactation consultants provide reassurance that breastfeeding is progressing normally.
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