What is a Lactation Consultant?

Kendal, BSN, IBCLC

Ever since I became a lactation consultant in 2015, I have encountered misconceptions about what the role of a lactation consultant really is--the main one being that we only approve of breastfeeding, and judge families who choose any feeding method other than breastfeeding. Friends would find out that I was a lactation consultant and say immediately, as though I might automatically judge, "Well, I couldn't breastfeed because..." Patients have told me, with shame, "Last night I gave the baby formula during cluster feeding, but I only gave it one time. I know I wasn't supposed to."

My answer, always and immediately, is that there is no right or wrong way to feed your baby. You have to do what works for you, not what pleases  everyone else. As a lactation consultant, I will reassure you that no matter how you feed your baby, it is never "wrong" or "harmful." 

So let's clear up some of these misconceptions about what lactation consultants do and don't do.

Lactation Consultants DO:

• Specialize in clinical management of breastfeeding--we are THE clinical experts on breastfeeding.
• Believe that breastmilk is amazing in so many ways that the benefits can be endless.
• Help babies who are not gaining enough weight by addressing reasons for lack of weight gain and coming up with feeding plan.
•  Help moms who are having pain while nursing.
• Assist mom-baby dyads with latching difficulties.
• Address reasons and solutions for low milk supply. 
• Communicate & collaborate with other members of the clinical team (OBGYNs, midwives, pediatricians) when and if necessary.
  
• Assure families whether or not their breastfeeding relationship is on the right track!

---

My answer, always and immediately, is that there is no right or wrong way to feed your baby.

Although that sums up our job description, the role of a lactation consultant is so much more than that. Just because breastfeeding is healthy and natural, doesn't mean it comes naturally. This is more than just a job to us--breastfeeding is something we are truly passionate about. We are passionate about helping moms and families achieve their desired feeding goals. We want to be your support system during this exciting, stressful, scary and emotional time in your life. 

Here at BTC, we:

• Are not totally against formula.
• Don't have any judgement for you if you choose not to exclusively breastfeed.
• Want moms to feel confident and able to enjoy feeding their babies, regardless if they breastfeed, pump, and/or bottlefeed or supplement. 
• Offer each mom all of the information and resources she needs to make a decision on how she wants to feed her baby.
• WILL NOT make you feel guilty or shamed for any feeding choices you may make. 

Ultimately, we will help you find out what is best for your family and then we will support you on your journey. We want to give you the confidence and support you need in order to reach your goal of a positive mother/baby bonding experience. Our goal is to help you feel proud of the goals you accomplished and guide in how YOU choose to feed your baby. After all, mom knows best:)

To schedule an appointment with either Kendal or Jen, visit our Lactation Appointment Booking page today!