Milk supply concerns

A visit with a lactation consultant can help you manage an oversupply as well as build your milk supply. 

Latch concerns

Latching is a dance between a mother and her baby. If your partner is a challenge, an experienced IBCLC can help. Shallow latches, slipping off the breast, clicking, repeated breast bobbing, refusing to latch and crying are a few signs that a lactation liaison may be helpful.

Slow weight gain

A skilled lactation consultant can help determine the underlying feeding issues (ineffective feeding, tongue tie, reflux, food sensitivities, etc). An IBCLC can assist you in developing a plan to improve weight gain and milk supply, if needed. 

Painful feedings

Breastfeeding shouldn't hurt. Pinched and creased nipples are not normal. Sometimes a simple adjustment to the baby's positioning will help. Sometimes it is more complex . A visit with a qualified lactation consultant can help identify the problem.

Breast or hormone concerns

A healthy breast and adequate hormone levels are essential for making milk. Prior breast surgery (breast reduction, augmentation, radiation exposure) or hormonal imbalances can pose a challenge. IBCLCs can help prevent complications.

Weaning

Weaning has many faces:  rapid weaning, partial weaning, night weaning,  daytime weaning, pump weaning, and toddler weaning.  If you need help navigating this process, spending time with a trained lactation consultant can help you create a road map. 

Pumping

Efficient and effective pumping yeilds more milk in less time. Pumping should not hurt. Pale and purple nipples are not normal. A skilled IBCLC can help with pump setting, flange fit, and scheduling.

Reflux, colic, food sensitivites

Fussy feeders take a toll on the whole family. If you are feeling overwhelmed by reflux, colic, or wonder about a possible food sensitivity, an IBCLC can help you make a plan for more peaceful feedings.

Breast or nipple pain

If you are experiencing engorgement, plugged ducts, nipple blebs, deep breast pain, mastitis, thrush, and pale or purple nipples, rest assured that there are solutions. 

Bottle difficulties

Bottle struggles are not uncommon. Chewing, gagging, clicking, dribbling, and crying are signs that feeding is not enjoyable for the baby.  An experienced IBCLC can help you find a good-fit bottle style for your baby and show you bottle-feeding strategies before aversions develop. 

Twins and more 

Managing multiples has a unique set of feeding challenges. Development of a game plan, in partnership with an IBCLC, can provide ideas to help at home and to keep the focus on feeding and protecting milk supply.  

Adoption & induced lactation

There are many ways to feed a baby.  If you are adopting and wish to induce lactation, a lactation consultant can assist with the process.