The Role and Importance of Lactation Consultants in Supporting Breastfeeding
While breastfeeding has been touted as the most natural thing a birthing person can do after birth, it’s common knowledge that this method of feeding can be difficult for some parents. While you could read books or even check out a YouTube video (or ten!), one of the most powerful tools you can have on your breastfeeding journey is that of a lactation consultant: Below are some common problems encountered when breastfeeding and how a certified lactation consultant can provide support:
1. Ties In Babies’ Mouth
Cheek ties, tongue ties, lip ties, oh my! Ties are conditions where baby has tissue(s) that anchor certain parts of their mouths down. Because this extra tissue exists, it cause restriction and affect their ability to develop deep latches. While lactation consultants cannot provide a medical diagnosis of a tie, they are able to recognize a tie and refer you to your pediatrician who is able to diagnose and treat a tie. That means less guessing for you and more successful feeds for baby!
2. Milk Supply Concerns
There’s few things as frustrating as struggling with milk supply. You question whether baby is getting the nutrients they need and what else you can do to help. Luckily, lactation consultants, with their depth of knowledge can assist you. They are skilled in teaching you ways to increase you milk supply and even educating you on the best ways to stimulate milk supply in the midst of a busy day.
3. Trouble with Your Milk Ducts
Chances are, if you’re breastfeeding, you’ll encounter some trouble with your milk ducts. Whether you’re dealing with a clogged ducts that you just can’t seem to loosen up or you’re dealing with reoccurring clogs, lactation consults can assist in finding a solution. Always remember, while clogged milk ducts can be painful, they shouldn’t never cause you to develop a fever or other symptoms. Symptoms like red streaks in the breast, yellow nipple discharge or feelings of nausea could indicate mastitis (an infection of the breast tissue). If symptoms don’t subside within 12-24 hours, immediately contact your provider.
4. Positioning and Technique
Cradle, cross-cradle and football hold are just a few of the options available to you when breastfeeding. Positioning and technique can be widely influenced by your breast shape and size as well as your preference and comfort needs. While it can take a while for both you and baby to get comfortable for feeds, with the help of a lactation consultant you can cut that time in half and skip the secondguessing. Check in with a lactation consult to get you that much closer to bonding with baby while they get their tummy full!
5. Confidence
Maybe you tried breastfeeding before with not so much success or you’re trying it for the first time and you’re working on building your confidence. Have no fear, lactation consultants are here! Lactation consults can be a huge help as they provide emotional support and physical guidance. They will work with you to get comfortable with feeding your little one in a way that scrolling through countless mommy blogs just can’t do. That’s less stress and more confidence for both you and baby!
