Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What will the IBCLC do during our consult?

A: During the visit, as your lactation consultant I will probably:

• Check how your baby looks and acts.
• Put a finger in your baby's mouth to check your baby's suck and mouth structures.
• Check your breasts and nipples.
• Check your baby’s weight naked to get an accurate weight.
• Weigh your baby before and after breastfeeding to measure how much your baby ate.
• Watch your baby breastfeed and offer help with positioning if you need it.
• Show you how to tell when your baby is latched and feeding well.
• Show you how to fix any breastfeeding problems you are having.
• Give you written instructions to help you at home.
• Tell you when and how to call for more help or questions.
• Give you the number for a nursing mothers support group in your area.

Q: What should I do to prepare for my consult?

A: Honestly, as a lactation consultant, the focus will be on mom and baby. I won't be looking at the dishes in the sink, or unmade beds. Please read how easy Preparing for a consultation truly is, a lovely blog post from some colleagues in Houston, Texas.

The goal is that your baby will begin to feed within the first 30 minutes of our time together. To achieve this, you may need to wake your baby and give your little one a snack in the 1.5 - 2 hours before my arrival.