Lactation Consultant: When To See One & What To Expect

The journey of motherhood is a profound and transformative experience, filled with moments of joy, wonder, and new responsibilities. At the heart of this journey is the remarkable act of breastfeeding, a natural process that nourishes and connects mother and baby. While breastfeeding is a beautifully instinctive endeavour, it is not without its challenges. In these instances, a lactation consultant becomes an invaluable partner, offering support, guidance, and expertise to ensure that both mother and baby embark on a successful and fulfilling breastfeeding journey. 

Here, we delve into the scenarios when seeking the assistance of a lactation consultant can make a significant difference, as well as what to expect during your consultation.

When to Seek a Lactation Consultant

1. Initial Latching Difficulties

Those first attempts at breastfeeding can sometimes be accompanied by latching difficulties. If you find yourself struggling to establish a comfortable and effective latch, a lactation consultant can provide essential guidance to help your baby latch correctly.

2. Pain or Discomfort

Experiencing pain or discomfort during breastfeeding can be discouraging and distressing. A lactation consultant can help identify the underlying causes, such as improper latch, and provide techniques to alleviate discomfort and improve your breastfeeding experience.

3. Low Milk Supply Concerns

If you’re worried about low milk supply or your baby’s weight gain, a lactation consultant can assess the situation and offer strategies to enhance milk production and ensure your baby’s nutritional needs are met.

4. Engorgement or Blocked Ducts

The discomfort of engorgement or the frustration of blocked milk ducts can be all too real for breastfeeding mothers. A lactation consultant can guide you through effective techniques to relieve these issues and prevent complications.

5. Breastfeeding Twins or Multiples

Navigating the world of breastfeeding with multiple babies presents unique challenges. A lactation consultant can offer customised advice to ensure that each baby is feeding well and thriving.

6. Transitioning Back to Work

The transition from maternity leave to returning to work while maintaining breastfeeding can be intricate. A lactation consultant can provide insight into maintaining your milk supply, creating effective pumping routines, and ensuring a smooth transition for both you and your baby.

What to Expect During a Lactation Consultation

1. Comprehensive Assessment and Observation

The consultation typically begins with an in-depth discussion about your breastfeeding experience and any concerns you might have. The lactation consultant will then observe your baby’s latch and feeding technique, identifying any areas that may require improvement.

2. Personalised Guidance and Advice

Based on the assessment, the consultant will offer personalised guidance tailored to your specific situation. This could involve adjusting your breastfeeding positions, improving latch technique, or recommending tools such as nipple shields or breast pumps.

3. Education and Tips

Lactation consultants are a treasure trove of knowledge. They will educate you about the intricacies of the breastfeeding process, how milk supply is regulated, and offer practical tips for maintaining a healthy and satisfying breastfeeding routine.

4. Creating a Customised Plan

Collaboratively, you and the consultant will devise a comprehensive plan to address your breastfeeding concerns. This plan may include targeted feeding schedules, pumping routines, and strategies to overcome any challenges you’re facing.

5. Ongoing Follow-Up Support

Many lactation consultants offer follow-up support to track your progress and address any new concerns that may arise as you continue your breastfeeding journey. This ensures that you have continuous guidance as you and your baby adapt.

6. Empowerment and Confidence Building

Beyond addressing immediate concerns, the ultimate goal of a lactation consultant is to empower you with the skills and knowledge you need to confidently navigate your breastfeeding journey. Their expertise is designed to build your confidence as a breastfeeding mother.

Conclusion

Embracing the support of a lactation consultant is a proactive step towards ensuring a positive and fulfilling breastfeeding experience. Their expertise not only alleviates worries and uncertainties but also enriches your understanding of breastfeeding and contributes to the physical and emotional well-being of both you and your baby. It is essential to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, and the journey of motherhood is a shared path where support can make all the difference. By partnering with a lactation consultant, you’re taking a significant stride towards providing the best nourishment and care for your little one, solidifying the unique bond between mother and child.

ReLacto’s Lactation Meal

Aside from seeing a lactation consultant, another way to support your breast milk supply is through healthy lactation meals. For some of us, it is difficult to provide sufficient breast milk that our little ones require. Hence, having food that increase breast milk is an extremely helpful step. But we can’t just be increasing breast milk food as we like. We have to ensure what we eat and drink are healthy lactation meals that replenish mother’s nutritional stores as she breastfeeds. 

Which brings us to ReLacto’s lactation meals that are designed for breastfeeding mothers. From ginger to fennel to fenugreek, our dishes are packed with galactagogues. Expect nutritious dishes like Fennel Seafood Soup or Braised Chicken with Ginger and Coriander Sauce. Don’t they sound delicious?

So head on over to our menu to find out more!