Lactation consultants (LCs) can help you plan and prepare for success with your breastfeeding goals. Here are some things they want you to know as you embark on your journey.
1. Take Breastfeeding Classes While You’re Pregnant
Women who take breastfeeding classes during their pregnancy have higher success rates and breastfeed longer than those who don’t. Just like before starting anything new, whether it be a new job, hobby or skill, taking some kind of class can help set you up for success – and the same applies to breastfeeding and pumping. When you are sleep-deprived and struggling with breastfeeding issues with a newborn, it is difficult to find the time and energy to take in a lot of information at once. Having a foundation and learning the basics of breastfeeding (like how often a baby needs to eat, normal diaper output, how to latch, how to know when they are full, how to fix a milk supply issue, how to integrate breast pumping and bottle feeding, and more) while you’re pregnant will help you be more prepared once you're postpartum.
2. Don’t Wait To Ask for Breastfeeding Help
While breastfeeding is natural, it doesn’t always come naturally. That’s why there are trusted professional educators to turn to! Even though each mom’s breastfeeding experience will be unique (even varying with each baby she has) lactation consultants have seen and heard it all when it comes to breast milk and will be able to help you troubleshoot any issues you’re having and address your specific needs. Are you interested in a virtual consultation with a certified lactation counselor from the comfort of your home? Click here to learn more about Lactation by Aeroflow Breastpumps.
Don't wait to ask for breastfeeding help.
Lactation support and educational resources for moms and moms-to-be!
3. Almost All Breastfeeding Obstacles Have a Resolution
When it comes to breastfeeding, there are many variables that could be causing issues, but the good news is that nearly every breastfeeding problem can be corrected. Common things lactation counselors or international board-certified lactation consultants (IBCLCs) address are latching or positioning issues, diagnosing a new baby’s oral issues (such as a lip or tongue tie), helping with low milk supply concerns – and sometimes the breastfeeding "issues" are as simple as moms overthinking or being provided misinformation. They can also answer questions about what is normal in the first weeks for new moms, what to do for sore nipples and engorgement, if your baby is getting enough milk, or how to use a breast pump. Thankfully, when you reach out to our team at Lactation by Aeroflow Breastpumps, we can help get to the bottom of your obstacles and create a plan of care to get you back on track. The earlier you reach out with any issues, the better!
4. We Care About Moms As Much as We Care About the Baby
Understanding this is crucial to the relationship between you and your lactation provider. Lactation consultants are not here to tell you only one way of doing things or to scold or shame you in any way. We are here to work together as a team to figure out what works not only for your baby but for you too. Your mental health is essential and we will help find solutions that work for all aspects of your wellbeing. Our individualized care keeps your breastfeeding goals, emotions, situation, and more in mind. We know there is not a one-size-fits-all plan of care when it comes to lactation consultations. We take the whole picture into consideration to best support you and your baby.
5. The Most Common Breastfeeding Issue Is a Lack of Support
When you give birth, the labor and delivery staff are there to offer breastfeeding support as you begin your breastfeeding journey. Unfortunately, sometimes new moms are not given the best advice or may misunderstand because there’s so much going on, and that can lead to a rough start to breastfeeding. We can support breastfeeding moms by helping them identify and resolve their issues, and by giving new mothers the tools and education they need to be successful. Without proper breastfeeding support, as well as support from family members and your job, it can make your journey more challenging. Setting up a virtual consultation is quick and easy, and incredibly beneficial. We hope to see you soon!
About the Author
Brianne Griffis, Certified Lactation Counselor
Information provided in blogs should not be used as a substitute for medical care or consultation.
