When to Seek Help From a Lactation Consultant: Signs of Breastfeeding Challenges

newborn baby mother at lactation consultant apoointment for breastfeeding

Congratulations on the impending or recent arrival of your baby! As a new mom, you may have heard about the perks of breastfeeding. Not only is it the best way to provide your baby with all the nutrients they need for healthy development, but it is also an opportunity to bond with your new child.

However, as amazing as breastfeeding is, it can be a challenging journey, especially for first-time moms. Breastfeeding is the most natural way of nourishing your newborn, but it is also a complex process that requires patience, commitment, and support.

Almost every mom at some point experiences breastfeeding challenges that can make it difficult to enjoy those special moments with your little one. Let’s discuss when to seek help from a lactation consultant, so you can ensure your breastfeeding journey is as smooth as possible.

5 Common Breastfeeding Challenges

There are several common signs that you could benefit from the professional guidance of a lactation consultant, such as the following:

  1. Painful Breastfeeding: If you experience pain or discomfort while breastfeeding, it’s time to consult a lactation consultant. Most new mothers experience some discomfort while breastfeeding. However, if the pain persists beyond the first few days, it could be a sign of a breastfeeding challenge. Pain may be due to many reasons, including improper position, tongue-tied, or engorgement. A lactation consultant can help identify the underlying problem and provide solutions to help alleviate your discomfort.
  2. Low Milk Supply: One of the biggest concerns for new moms is whether their baby is getting enough milk. If you notice that your baby is not gaining weight or is losing weight, it could be a sign of low milk supply. There could be many reasons behind low milk supply, including stress, illness, birth control, or insufficient breastfeeding. A lactation consultant can help identify the cause of your low supply and provide advice on increasing your milk production.
  3. Latching Issues: Latching is an essential part of breastfeeding, and if your baby is not latching correctly, it can make breastfeeding a painful and frustrating experience. Poor latching can cause problems such as nipple soreness and decreased milk flow. A lactation consultant can assist in identifying the causes of latching issues and teach you techniques to help improve your baby’s latch.
  4. Mastitis: Mastitis is an infection of the breast tissue and is a common problem for breastfeeding mothers. Symptoms of mastitis include breast inflammation, fever, flu-like symptoms, and breast pain. If you think you have mastitis, it’s essential to seek medical help immediately, and a lactation consultant can help you through this process.
  5. Premature Baby: If you have a premature baby, they might have difficulty breastfeeding. Premature babies may be too small or weak to latch on properly, which can make breastfeedinfg tricky. A lactation consultant can offer valuable advice and support to help you navigate the unique challenges of breastfeeding a premature baby.

Lactation Consultant in Wooster, Ohio

As a new mother, it’s essential to understand when you should seek professional help from a lactation consultant, especially if faced with any of the above challenges.

At the Women’s Pavilion at Wooster Community Hospital, we offer a range of lactation consultant services to support breastfeeding mothers. Our team of certified lactation consultants provides expert guidance and assistance with various breastfeeding challenges. Some specific lactation consultant services include:

  • Latching Support – Helping mothers ensure a proper latch for effective breastfeeding.
  • Sucking Abnormalities – Providing strategies and techniques to address sucking abnormalities in infants.
  • Returning to Work – Offering guidance on transitioning back to work while maintaining breastfeeding goals.
  • Breastfeeding Education – Providing comprehensive education on breastfeeding techniques, positions, and best practices.

The lactation consultants at Wooster Community Hospital are available to help you every step of the way. Consultations can occur during your hospital stay or on an outpatient basis. They are also offered  through our convenient telehealth services, enabling you to receive face-to-face breastfeeding support via an app on your smartphone, computer, or tablet. Although a fee is required for private, one-on-one breastfeeding consultations, it may be covered by insurance.

In addition, Wooster Community Hospital offers membership in our free Baby Bistro Sessions, a group that provides support and answers you need for your baby’s care and health, including breastfeeding. For more details, call (330) 202-5548.

For more information about our specific lactation consultant services or to schedule an appointment, call Wooster Community Hospital at (330) 202-5567 to speak with a consultant directly.