Breastfeeding, despite what you might have imagined during pregnancy, isn’t always the magical insta-perfect experience it’s often portrayed to be. More often than not, it can be a painful, messy and even confusing experience—and that’s okay! You and your baby are trying to navigate this time together. You and your baby are learning together. The good news? You don’t have to go through it alone. Lactation consultants are there to guide you every step of the way.
Lactation consultants are trained professionals who offer guidance on breastfeeding techniques, milk supply issues and overall support for mothers and babies. Lactation consultants can help you with anything from low milk supply to trouble latching and even those middle-of-the-night moments when you’re Googling “is cluster feeding forever?” Spoiler: it’s not. Having someone that’s super knowledgeable but also there to support you can make all the difference in your breastfeeding journey.
So, how do you find a lactation consultant near you? Whether you want to plan ahead or you’re deep into breastfeeding and realize you need help, we’ve got you covered. . This guide will walk you through how to find a lactation consultant near you, ensuring you receive expert assistance to make your breastfeeding journey smoother.
- Why You Might Need a Lactation Consultant
- What to Look for in a Lactation Consultant
- How to Find a Lactation Consultant Near You
- Types of Consultations: In-Person vs. Virtual
- How to Prepare for Your First Lactation Consultation
- Costs and Insurance Coverage for Lactation Consultations
Why You Might Need a Lactation Consultant
Before we discuss how to find a lactation consultant, it’s essential that you understand why seeking out a lactation consultant can be beneficial for both you and your baby. From those early challenges in your journey to running into issues that you can’t fix no matter how hard you try, a lactation consultant can help.
Common Breastfeeding Challenges
Breastfeeding is not a walk in the park for every mom. If you’re facing any of the below challenges, remember that you’re not alone:
- Latch difficulties: Your baby is having trouble latching on to your nipple
- Nipple pain: Your nipples are experiencing cracked skin or soreness
- Low milk supply: You’re having trouble producing enough milk
- Concern’s about your baby’s weight gain: If you think your baby isn’t gaining enough weight, a lactation consultant can help determine if your little one is getting enough milk
Support for Both First-Time and Experienced Moms
“The experience of breastfeeding is different for everyone, and a wide array of experiences are normal. Many breastfeeding challenges might necessitate a consultation with a lactation consultant, including trouble latching or a low milk-supply. But visiting a lactation consultant doesn’t only have to be about troubleshooting issues. Consultants can give encouragement, provide a listening ear, and be cheerleaders for things that are going well. The first few weeks are filled with so many highs and lows. Breastfeeding in particular can feel isolating since all of the work is put on mom, so having support with this is crucial,” Breana Barron, IBCLC, DNP, Lovevery Childhood Development Expert, says.
Lactation consultants can also help you transition to different areas of breastfeeding like pumping, weaning or managing breastfeeding alongside work. Whether you’re trying to choose the right breast pump or figuring out how to wean your baby while keeping things smooth for both of you, lactation consultants are there to support you every step of the way.
What to Look for in a Lactation Consultant
Before diving into how to find a lactation consultant, it’s important to know what qualities and qualifications to consider. You want to find someone that aligns with your needs so they can find the right guidance for you and your breastfeeding journey.
IBCLC Certification
When it comes to lactation consultants, The International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is the gold standard. Make sure that the consultant you choose is certified as it ensures they’ve gone through the proper training, completed their hands-on hours and passed an exam. This not only makes sure that they have the proper knowledge they need but it also gives you peace of mind knowing your lactation consultant knows how to handle anything that comes your way. Pediatricians can explain the training and expertise that comes with an IBCLC certification.
Experience and Specializations
“The best lactation consultants ask what your lactation goals are long-term and help you develop manageable and realistic steps to help achieve your goals. Depending on the goals, you may need to meet with the lactation consultant several times as your breastfeeding journey unfolds,” Ann Gabaldon, Certified Nurse Midwife and IBCLC lactation consultant, explains. “Sometimes we need to pivot and having a consultant onboard who can trouble shoot, think out of the box and is a good listener is key.”
Accessibility and Availability
Last up, look for a consultant who offers flexible scheduling, in-person visits or virtual consultations, depending on your needs. When you need breastfeeding help, let’s be honest, you need it ASAP. Seek a consultant that can meet where you are and when you need it. Because when it comes to breastfeeding help, ongoing support often makes all the difference.
How to Find a Lactation Consultant Near You
So how do you start to find a lactation consultant near you? There are various resources and methods to find a reliable lactation consultant in your area. Here’s how to get started.
Ask Your Healthcare Provider
One of the easiest ways to find a lactation consultant is by asking your pediatrician, OB/GYN or midwife for recommendations. Oftentimes, they work closely with lactation consultants or can recommend experienced ones in the field. Many hospitals and birthing centers also have lactation consultants on staff or can refer you to trusted local professionals. So if you recently delivered your little one, you can always check with your hospital if they have any lactation consultants they can refer you to.
Use Professional Organizations
You can also try the easiest tool in the book: the internet. Websites like the International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA) and La Leche League provide directories where you can search for certified lactation consultants by location. It’s a super simple and easy way to ensure you’re connected with IBCLC-certified consultants for quality care.
Check with Your Hospital or Birth Center
Like we mentioned before, many hospitals and birth centers have lactation consultants available for postpartum visits. So if you delivered at a birth center or hospital, check back in with them! If they don’t have lactation consultants on hand they can always refer you to nearby consultants for ongoing care. Some hospitals even offer complimentary breastfeeding help during your hospital stay or in follow-up care. Talk about a dream.
Explore Local Parenting Groups or Online Communities
Another great way to find trusted lactation consultants is through local parenting groups, both in-person and online. You can use these groups to ask for personal recommendations from moms who’ve worked with lactation consultants. After all, who knows better than other moms who have been exactly in your shoes? You could even try asking around at Mommy & Me classes or library story times for reliable recommendations.
Use Apps and Directories
Speaking of online communities, you can look into apps such as Peanut or websites such as Find a Lactation Consultant that provide searchable directories of nearby lactation consultants. These directories often include details you’d want to know about your potential consultants, like reviews, their certifications or their availability.
Types of Consultations: In-Person vs. Virtual
Lactation consultants offer both in-person and virtual sessions. Both options can provide you with the support you need. Here’s how to choose the option that works best for you.
Benefits of In-Person Consultations
Sometimes, nothing beats hands-on help. In-person visits allow for hands-on guidance, which can be crucial for correcting latch issues or troubleshooting more complex problems. If you’re dealing with issues like the baby’s positioning, an in person visit can allow your consultant to physically show you alternatives and how to adjust your baby for maximum comfort. There’s also something a little extra comforting about having some face-to-face support.
The Flexibility of Virtual Consultations
While in person visits allow for that hands-on help, virtual consultations offer loads of convenience. If you’re a mama who is recovering from childbirth, has limited mobility or you just live far from available consultants, virtual help can be a lifesaver. They’re also great for troubleshooting basic breastfeeding issues, like simple questions about pumping or creating feeding schedules.
How to Prepare for Your First Lactation Consultation
Once you’ve found a consultant, here’s how to get the most out of your first session. Preparing properly for your first consultation can ensure that you’re getting the most out of your session. Here’s how to set yourself up for success:
Gather Questions and Concerns
Start out by writing down your specific questions or concerns you have about breastfeeding. This could be anything from latching issues, milk supply or pain during nursing. Are you curious about introducing a bottle? Write it down. Struggling with low milk supply? Write it down!
“I ask mothers to keep a record of their breastfeeding sessions: what time, how long, which side. Sharing additional details about specific challenges can help me understand how their feeding journey has gone to-date,” Barron says. “On the flipside- sometimes tracking all of this info can seem daunting and you might not even know what questions to ask—and that’s ok too! Do what feels right for you!”
Have Your Baby Present
If it’s possible, have your baby with you during the consultation so your lactation consultant can observe a feeding and provide real-time feedback. They can access your baby’s latch and feeding habits to determine what kind of advice or guidance you need. If you’re meeting virtually, try to have your camera set up in a way that allows your consultant to see you and your baby.
Bring Essential Supplies
Last up, bring all of your supplies with you. If you’re pumping, bring your pump and accessories so the consultant can guide you on proper use and settings. Your consultant will make sure you’re using it properly and effectively. You can even bring things like your breastfeeding pillow or any other tools you’ve been relying on during your breastfeeding journey. It can help the consultant offer more tailored guidance.
What to Expect from a Lactation Consultant
If you’re feeling a little nervous about your first consultation, it’s okay! Understanding what happens during a consultation can help you feel more prepared and comfortable.
Initial Assessment
Your lactation consultant will likely begin by asking questions about your pregnancy, birth experience and breastfeeding journey so far. Share everything you can with them. Are you worried about your baby’s weight? Experiencing any pain while breastfeeding? Share it all. This background information can help them tailor their advice to your specific situation.
Hands-On Guidance
If you’re meeting your consultant in person, the lactation consultant will assess your baby’s latch, positioning and any physical challenges you may be facing. They’ll do this by observing you and your baby’s behaviors while breastfeeding. Hands-on guidance is incredibly helpful for troubleshooting specific problems. Seeing what works and feels right in real time can make a huge difference.
Ongoing Support
Breastfeeding is not a straight line journey, and you’ll often need support that goes beyond meeting with your lactation consultant. Many lactation consultants offer follow-up appointments or ongoing virtual check-ins to track your progress and address any new concerns. Having continuous support can help you feel more confident in breastfeeding, no matter how far along you are.
Costs and Insurance Coverage for Lactation Consultations
Now, let’s talk about money. While getting lactation support is super helpful, there is a financial side to it. Here’s what you need to know.
How Much Does a Lactation Consultant Cost?
The cost of lactation consultants can vary depending on location and experience, but on average, sessions can range from $100 to $300 per consultation. If you have longer sessions, the price can increase. Follow up care can also jack up the price. While this might feel like a hefty price tag, the guidance you’ll get will be worth it.
Insurance and Reimbursement
Here’s some good news about how to find a lactation consultant. Many insurance plans, including those under the Affordable Care Act, cover the cost of lactation consultations, so be sure to check with your provider. When you check with your provider, see what is covered and what documentation you’ll need to provide.
Low-Cost and Free Resources
If you’re worried about the price when looking for how to find a lactation consultant, you can look into some lower cost options. Some hospitals, clinics and non-profits offer free or low-cost lactation consultations, particularly for those who may not have insurance coverage. Reach out to your healthcare provider for recommendations in this area. Organizations like La Leche League or WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) provide free lactation support to qualifying families. Remember, there are options out there for whatever budget you have
