FAQs
What does a lactation consultant or specialist do?
Lactation consultants help you feed your infant in whatever way is best for YOU! We mostly work with newborns, but any baby under about 18 months is fair game. Most common issues include latching difficulty, nipple or breast pain while feeding, helping your baby through tummy troubles, switching from bottle to breast and back, troubleshooting milk supply difficulties, overcoming nursing strikes, using a breast pump, and weaning.
What’s the difference between lactation specialists?
The two most common certifications are Certified Lactation Educators (CLEs) and International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs). Many clinics will employ both: CLEs will teach prenatal and breastfeeding techniques while IBCLCs work with breastfeeding dyads who require specialized care. IBCLCs are the most-rigorously trained. As such, they are the only credentialed specialty that is independently billable by insurance in the US. Credentialing includes a minimum of 95 hours of didactic coursework, health science licensure (RN, MD, NP, etc.) or training (equivalent to about 3 years of schooling), AND 1000 hours of clinical experience. We know a whole lot about lactating people and babies! (Psst… you can look up any IBCLC in the public certification registry.)
Why should I schedule with you before my baby is born?
Feeding your baby is very overwhelming in the first few weeks after she is born. Just like you would study for a test in class, it’s a good idea to go over what to expect in your delivery and how to transition to life with a newborn. Ask any parent and the answer is the same: feeding your baby is the most stressful part of your first few months. It is EXTREMELY helpful to gain as much knowledge as you can before you are (more) sleep-deprived and stressed. It’s healthier for you and for your baby.
I already took a prenatal class. Isn’t that enough?
In short, no. Prenatal classes are great to prepare you for your labor and delivery. Because there is SO much information on pregnancy, newborn care, and infant feeding, most prenatal classes do not cover enough about breastfeeding to prepare you adequately. You can try out a prenatal seminar for free if you need more information!
How many sessions will I need and when should I schedule them?
Of course, every parent/baby dyad is different. Many first-time mothers only need a couple of sessions. Parents of twins, preemies, and those with underlying medical conditions may need more time. If you are currently pregnant, we recommend contacting us between 28-33 weeks along. The first session with your baby often is most useful the day after you come home from the hospital— BEFORE you run in to breastfeeding trouble. The first in-person visit usually takes about 1 ½ hours and all follow-ups are 1 hour long (twins need a little more time).
Will you come to my house?
Check to see if you fall within our service area.
Do you take my insurance?
You can check your insurance coverage through The Lactation Network. If you are eligible, your consults are 100% covered. If you are denied, your insurance company will cover 99% or less of the cost, and you will need to submit a Superbill. Lactation services are FSA/HSA eligible. For our out-of-pocket rates, click here.
How can you help me if I’m NOT breastfeeding?
We help with infant colic, sleep issues, pump issues, switching formulas, and bottle transitions, too! There is so much more to caring for an infant than your breastfeeding journey.