Why Prenatal Lactation Appointments are Important
If you are expecting and want to breastfeed, or are curious about breastfeeding, I highly recommend meeting with an IBCLC as opposed to taking a group or online class. Continue reading to find out why these appointments are so important.
1) Gain knowledge to prevent breastfeeding issues. As a holistic health coach, I have been a strong advocate of disease prevention for over a decade. Just as the right education and preventative measures can have a positive impact on your health, this also applies to lactation. For this reason, I believe that prenatal lactation visits are imperative for those families who are wanting to breastfeed. Do not wait until there is an issue to seek out an IBCLC in private practice!
2) Feel more prepared by learning what to expect. Anticipatory guidance is a huge benefit of a prenatal lactation appointment. I will teach you what to expect and how to manage potential difficulties during the first few days. I cannot tell you how many moms I have met that could have avoided unnecessary formula supplementation in the hospital had they been better informed about breastfeeding prior to the delivery of their baby.
3) Have the benefit of learning in a calm, controlled environment prior to the birth of your baby. We all learn more quickly and retain information more easily when we are in a calm state and a relaxed environment. With the use of a realistic baby doll, learn the best breastfeeding positions and landmarks to ensure a good latch for a newborn. You will also learn the signs of a deep latch versus a shallow latch, as well as what to look for to know if your baby is getting enough breastmilk. Learning these skills in advance will give you confidence as you and your baby are learning to breastfeed during those first few days.
4) Learn how to properly manage breastfeeding so that you can set yourself up for success. When breastfeeding is managed the right way, especially in the beginning, many issues such as engorgement, clogged ducts, mastitis, breast refusal, and low supply can be avoided. This can make all the difference in your breastfeeding journey.
5) Get individualized care and build rapport with your IBCLC. Every person is unique in their anatomy, medical history, pregnancy, and past breastfeeding experience. Meeting with a lactation consultant for a one-on-one prenatal breastfeeding appointment allows for all recommendations to be tailored to your specific needs. This is also a great time to establish a relationship with your IBCLC. Hopefully your breastfeeding journey goes as smoothly as possible, but in the event you need support, you will know who to call.
** Your insurance may cover up to 6 visits with a lactation consultant. If this is the case for you, I highly recommend a prenatal consult after 27 weeks gestation, a feeding assessment during the first week, another assessment at six weeks postpartum, and a back to work/pumping appointment prior to returning to work.
Lauren Stanley, RN, BSN, IBCLC