What is a lactation consultant?

Breastfeeding is very beneficial for newborns, as it supplies them with the nutrients they need. Studies show that babies who are breastfed have greater protection against infection, illness, and disease. It is also a preventative measure against obesity. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusively breastfeeding for the first six months of a baby’s life.

As much as you want to breastfeed your baby, it may not always be smooth sailing, and you can have great difficulty with it. Both new mothers and seasoned pros can face breastfeeding challenges. If you are having trouble breastfeeding, you need a special kind of support from a breastfeeding expert or lactation consultant.

WHAT IS A LACTATION CONSULTANT AND WHERE CAN YOU FIND ONE?

A lactation consultant is someone trained to offer extensive support to mothers who are having difficulties with breastfeeding. These experts can help mothers, even those with the most complicated breastfeeding issues, find a more comfortable and effective way to breastfeed.

Common problems that can arise during this time include breast pain, engorgement, poor milk supply, trouble latching, difficulty finding the best nursing position, refusal of the baby to feed, poor infant weight gain, infant falling asleep instead of feeding, and problems with using breast pumps and pumping breast milk. Serious conditions such as mastitis and clogged milk ducts can also occur after delivery.

A lactation consultant can help troubleshoot breastfeeding issues, answer any questions you may have about breastfeeding, and provide breastfeeding advice. They can also provide emotional support during this potentially stressful time.

Lactation consultants are usually found in hospitals, particularly in obstetric units, and are often seen by postpartum mothers as part of routine care. When a mother leaves the hospital, she may experience new breastfeeding problems. Lactation consultants can also see patients on an outpatient basis. To receive the best possible support, choose a lactation consultant who has earned IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) credentials, as these healthcare professionals are held to the highest standards and are subject to extensive training.

CAN I BOOST MY BREASTFEEDING PREPAREDNESS?

If you are a new mother and want to become more confident in your ability to breastfeed, consider taking lactation classes or joining breastfeeding support groups to broaden your knowledge about it and learn important information, like how to tell if your baby is hungry and how to tell if your baby is getting enough breastmilk. Better yet, meet with a certified lactation consultant before delivery to increase your chances of breastfeeding success.

CERTIFIED LACTATION CONSULTANTS IN WOOSTER, OH

Choosing to breastfeed your baby is a personal decision. If you want to breastfeed your baby but are not having success, our lactation consultants at the Women’s Pavilion at Wooster Community Hospital can provide breastfeeding support. We achieved recognition from the International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA) and International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) and received the IBCLC Care Award.

Our lactation consultants offer one-on-one breastfeeding consultations and have made this available through our telehealth services. We want our patients to receive breastfeeding support whenever they need it. Lactation consultations are available 24/7, by appointment.

To speak to a lactation consultant at Wooster Community Hospital, call (330) 202-5567. We look forward to providing you compassionate support while breastfeeding and helping you achieve your breastfeeding goals.