What to Expect When Working with a Lactation Consultant
Are you looking for an Atlanta Lactation Consultant?
Before you choose the specific breastfeeding expert in Atlanta that you want to work with you should know what to expect before making your decision.
The list below gives basic guidelines that outline how many certified Atlanta lactation consultants operate.
However, there may be slight differences depending on the specific lactation consultant you select and that’s okay, so long as you ensure you are aware of their process and it meets your needs.
Here is what to expect with most lactation consultants:
A thorough history of parent and baby will be taken before the first appointment
Your lactation consultant will watch you feed your baby. This could include breastfeeding and/or bottle feeding and will likely also include pumping
Your lactation consultant may examine your breasts and nipples.
If the visit is in person, your baby will likely be weighed before and after a feed, to see how much milk your baby takes during a breastfeed.
You will get assistance with latching your baby and your consultant will likely offer suggestions, as well as observe baby during a feed.
Your lactation consultant will do an oral assessment with their finger to observe and feel how the baby is moving its tongue and mouth during sucking.
If you are pumping breast milk, your lactation consultant can check to be sure you are using your pump correctly and measure you for proper flange sizing.
When the above has been done, you and your breastfeeding expert will come up with goals with you and go over a care plan.
You will get the opportunity to ask and have answered any questions about breastfeeding you might have.
If necessary, your lactation consultant can and should refer you to other healthcare professionals as needed.
Your lactation consultant should also follow-up with you during the next week or until your next appointment to see how the feeding plan you came up with is going and whether you have additional questions.
