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A prenatal lactation visit is a crucial step in preparing for a successful breastfeeding journey. During this visit, expecting mothers can meet with a lactation consultant to discuss their breastfeeding goals, ask questions, and learn about the benefits of breastfeeding for both themselves and their baby. The consultant can also provide information on proper latch and positioning techniques, as well as address any concerns or challenges the mother may have.
Great opportunity for partners or support persons to attend and learn how they can assist the mother in her breastfeeding journey. ​
Prenatal Lactation Visit are encouraged when there are the following risk factors:
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Advanced maternal age ( >40)
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History of breastfeeding challenge
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History of breast surgery
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Lack of breast changes during pregnancy
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Widely spaced or tubular breasts
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Fertility challenges
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Hormonal disorders (thyroid, obesity, PCOS)
Postpartum visits can address:
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Mother or baby's health concerns, latch, and breastfeeding relationship
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Milk supply (low or high)
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Flanges and pumping, bottle feeding, hybrid feeding, manual expression
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Weaning, back to work planning, change in primary care, supplemental feeding
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Pains, discomfort, mastitis, infections
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Breastfeeding positions, night feedings
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Feeding after breast surgery
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Baby's limitations (tongue ties, etc.)
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And much more
Am I producing too much milk? Not enough? Electric or manual pumping? Can I store milk in the freezer? Is my baby's weight adequate? Can I supplement their feeding? Is it normal to feel discomfort when baby feeds? How do I manage cluster feedings? Which is the right flange size for me?
Am I doing this right? Is it normal?
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Feeding your baby should be a time of bonding, but doubts and fears can make it stressful and uncomfortable. It really doesn't have to be! Instead of asking for what is "normal", learn what is right for you and your baby, clear your doubts, and enjoy the most magical time of you and your baby's life.
What to expect :
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Initial Assessment
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History Taking: detailed information about your baby’s feeding history, including breastfeeding patterns, bottle-feeding attempts, and any previous issues or concerns
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Medical Background: any relevant medical history for both the baby and the mother to identify potential underlying causes
Observation and Analysis
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Feeding Observation: The consultant will observe a feeding session to understand the baby’s behavior and technique when offered a bottle. This helps in identifying specific issues such as latch problems, nipple confusion, or oral motor difficulties
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Bottle and Nipple Assessment: They will evaluate the type of bottle and nipple being used to ensure they are appropriate for your baby’s age and feeding style
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Personalized Plan​
Customized Strategies: Based on the assessment, we will build a tailored plan that may include:
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Techniques for Introducing the Bottle: Gradual introduction methods, different feeding positions, and timing strategies
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Nipple Choices: Recommendations for different types of nipples that might be more acceptable to the baby
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Feeding Techniques: Tips on how to make bottle feeding more comfortable and appealing for the baby
Support and Follow-Up
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Parental Guidance: hands-on guidance and support to the parents, demonstrating techniques and offering practical advice
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Follow-Up: we will schedule follow-up sessions to monitor progress, make necessary adjustments to the plan, and provide ongoing support
Emotional Support
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Reassurance and Encouragement: Understanding that bottle refusal can be stressful, emotional support and reassurance, helping parents feel more confident and less anxious about the feeding process is my priority​​
We'll assess nipple size for proper flange fitting, evaluate your pumping technique, and adjust pump settings.
Expect personalized guidance to maximize milk output and minimize discomfort, ensuring successful pumping.
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This specialized lactation visit is designed to address concerns related to breast pumping, with a particular emphasis on proper flange fitting. The flange, the funnel-shaped part of the breast pump that comes into contact with the breast, plays a crucial role in comfortable and effective milk expression.
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The goal of this visit is to ensure that the client can pump comfortably and efficiently, maximizing milk production and supporting their breastfeeding goals.
What to expect : ​
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During this visit, a lactation consultant (IBCLC) will:
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Assess Nipple Size and Breast Anatomy:
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The consultant will carefully measure nipple size and evaluate breast anatomy to determine the appropriate flange size and shape.
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Evaluate Pumping Technique:
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The client's current pumping technique will be observed, and adjustments will be recommended to maximize milk output and minimize discomfort.
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Flange Fitting:
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Various flange sizes and potentially different flange types will be tried to find the optimal fit.
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The consultant will observe how the nipple moves within the flange during pumping to ensure proper function.
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Pump Settings Optimization:
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The consultant will help the client understand and adjust pump settings (suction strength and cycle speed) for optimal milk expression and comfort.
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Troubleshooting:
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Any pain, discomfort, or milk output issues related to pumping will be addressed.
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Education:
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The client will receive education on proper pump maintenance, milk storage guidelines, and strategies to increase milk supply.
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What to expect : ​
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Assessment:
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Share your experience :motivations and barriers, guidance
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Health and Pregnancy History: A deep-dive into your pre-pregnancy health, menstrual history, and pregnancy complications
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Identifying the Onset
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Review when you first noticed a decrease in milk supply offers insights into whether the issue has been progressive or sudden
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Current Routines : Understanding your daily breastfeeding and/or pumping schedules helps identify patterns and potential areas for adjustment
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Previous Attempts and Interventions: Knowing what has been tried and the results helps focus our efforts on new or adjusted strategies
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Decision-making for Blood Work: Based on the conversation, we collaboratively choose relevant blood work to investigate underlying causes
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Physical Examination: Whether in-person or via telehealth, a thorough check for physical factors like insufficient glandular tissue, proper pump flange sizing, and assessing the baby for tethered oral tissues is crucial.
This streamlined approach ensures that every aspect of the consultation is purposeful and geared towards understanding and addressing the root causes of low milk
supply.
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Personalized Plan​
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Customized Strategies
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Support and Follow-up
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Guidance
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Follow-Up: we will schedule follow-up sessions to review the labs and the plan of care. You can opt for just a follow up email with the review of the labs and the plan.
Emotional Support
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Reassurance and Encouragement.