Who is a lactation consultant

What is a Lactation Consultant?

A lactation consultant is a professional health worker trained to help new families be successful in breastfeeding. If a breastfeeding counsellor or lactation consultant uses the initials “IBCLC,” they have been certified by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners.

The Lactation Consultants at Mediclinic provide safe, competent and evidence-based quality care by demonstrating specialized knowledge and clinical expertise in breastfeeding and human lactation. The Lactation Consultants focus on the needs and concerns of the breastfeeding mother/baby to prevent, recognize, and solve breastfeeding difficulties on an inpatient and outpatient basis. The Lactation Consultants are functioning and contributing as a member of the health care team to deliver coordinated services and education to women, families and staff. Lactation Consultants make necessary referrals to other health care providers and community support resources when necessary.

If you choose to breastfeed your baby, lactation consultants can support you and answer your questions. Breastfeeding comes with a unique set of challenges, it can be difficult — both emotionally and physically. Sometimes a lactation consultant's best quality is being a source of emotional support and encouragement. The first few weeks of your baby's life are the most important time for establishing breastfeeding. Your lactation consultant can work with you and your baby to increase your chances of having a long and successful breastfeeding experience.

Some reasons you may make an appointment with a lactation consultant are:

• Positioning, attachment and comfort of the baby at the breast.
• Breast engorgement.
• Plugged ducts or breast infections like mastitis or thrush.
• Sore, cracked or painful nipples.
• Milk supply concerns.
• Struggling with nursing positions.
• Issues with latching, tongue-tie or sucking.
• Multiple babies (twins or more)
• Babies with Cleft lip palate
• Your baby isn't gaining weight.
• Pumping either once you return to work or for bottle feeding with breastmilk.
• Your baby refusing the breast.