Are you planning to breastfeed/chest-feed your baby or pump and feed your baby expressed milk? Or have you already started breastfeeding, but have hit a few bumps in the road? I'd be happy to help! I offer judgement-free in-home (and in-hospital) support for breastfeeding, pumping, and bottle-feeding.
Many of us have heard about the benefits of breastfeeding, but have not received adequate information and support for knowing HOW to successfully do it. Though it is a biologically "natural" process, many have never learned about how it works or witnessed it up close. Additionally, there are medical conditions, childbirth practices, medications, and other factors that can affect lactation negatively. If you decide to breastfeed/chest-feed, having good support lined up ahead of time is the key to reaching your breastfeeding goals!
I am a Certified Lactation Counselor, which is a credential earned through The Academy of Lactation Policy and Practice, Inc. I love the concept of anticipatory guidance (aka preventative care), and am skilled at helping lactating persons prevent and overcome common breastfeeding problems. I actively listen, take into account the "big picture," and understand that breastfeeding decisions are made by the parent, who may have different values and goals than me.
I can confidently counsel parents on most lactation problems. I am not a medical professional, and there may be times that I'll need to refer to an IBCLC or other care provider. However, I will be an indispensable part of your health care team!
Lactation Services Pricing
Prenatal Lactation Planning Consult
During this in-home prenatal consult, I will assess your infant-feeding knowledge, learn more about your health history, help you set your breastfeeding goals, create your individualized lactation care plan, and go over any concerns or questions you might have. This 1-2 hour consult will provide anticipatory guidance (preventative care) to help you feel more confident and get off to a better start with breastfeeding. Price: $65
Postnatal Lactation Counseling Visits
The Initial Postnatal Lactation Counseling Visit is typically done within the first 72 hours after baby is born, which is a crucial time for establishing a good latch and milk supply. During this visit, I will ask about how you’re doing (physically and emotionally), ask questions about the baby’s birth, observe the baby (looking for anatomical variations that could affect breastfeeding), and observe what the baby does during a feeding. Even if things seem to be going ok, this visit may help prevent issues that could potentially begin or worsen after your mature milk comes in. I will come to wherever you are (home, hospital, birth center) and support you with an unbiased, hands-off approach. After listening and observing, I’ll offer reassurance, suggestions, and counseling, keeping your individual health history, birth experience, and breastfeeding goals in mind. This consult may last 1.5-2.5 hours. Price of First Postnatal Consult: $75.
If you’re still experiencing difficulties after the Initial Postnatal visit, you may need a Second Postnatal Lactation Counseling Visit. This visit may be shorter, lasting 1-2 hours. Price of Second Postnatal Consult: $65.
You may need or want a Third Postnatal Lactation Counseling Visit, which should last 1-2 hours. Price of Third and Subsequent Postnatal visits: $60.