WHY DO I NEED LACTATION COUNSELING?
The first few weeks with a newborn are the most important time to establish breastfeeding. This process can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Lactation counseling works with you and your baby to increase your chances of having a successful breastfeeding journey. But, how do you know if you need a lactation counseling?
You may want to schedule a free consultation with us if you experience any of the following:
​
-
Issues with latching or sucking, or the baby refusing the breast.
-
Milk supply concerns.
-
Plugged ducts or breast infections.
-
Breast engorgement.
-
Sore or cracked nipples.
-
Your child isn’t gaining weight.
-
Nursing position difficulty.
-
Pumping or bottle feeding with breastmilk.
HOW YOU CAN BENEFIT FROM LACTATION COUNSELING
Whether you are a first-time parent, parent who has breastfed several children, lactation counseling can help you anytime during your breastfeeding journey. Lactation counseling can help any breastfeeding parent with:
​
-
Creating a feeding schedule.
-
Recognizing hunger cues.
-
Finding the best feeding position for you and your baby.
-
Treatment for: sore or cracked nipples, and breast engorgement.
-
Helping your baby latch properly.
-
Ensure baby weight gain.
-
Using a breast pump correctly.
-
Increasing milk supply.
​
Outside of physical help, our lactation counseling offers support and guidance for breastfeeding parents while navigating through feeding concerns.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM LACTATION COUNSELING
FOR EXPECTING PARENTS
-
Health review: Going over your health history can help provide insight to how your body may respond to breastfeeding and help determine techniques that may be unique to your health and body.
-
Breastfeeding education: We will provide insights into how breastfeeding works and what to expect in the first few days feeding.
-
Preparation: We will discuss breastfeeding positions, proper latch techniques, how to tell if your baby is receiving enough milk.
-
Goals: We will determine your breastfeeding goals and develop a plan to achieve them.
FOR AFTER BIRTH
-
Health review: Going over you and your baby’s health history, pregnancy and delivery are important in understanding the baseline of the consultation.
-
Breastfeeding: Observing a feeding will allow IGNITE to understand your baby’s latch, their swallowing, breathing and the amount of milk they receive.
-
Breast pump education: If you plan on supplementing breastfeeding with pumped milk, please bring your device to your appointment. We will go through the process of how and when to pump.
-
Weight gain help: We will go over the ways to determine if your baby is receiving enough milk during feedings, and if they are gaining the appropriate amount of weigh
It is important no matter where you are on your breastfeeding journey, to come to your lactation counseling session with questions and concerns. Nobody knows your body and baby better than you, so help us understand where you may be facing frustrations, or the areas you need more guidance. IGNITE is here to help you and your baby have a successful breastfeeding experience.
BREASTFEEDING TIPS AND TECHNIQUES
1
PROPER LATCH
A proper latch is crucial to successful breast feeding. To help your baby obtain a good latch, make sure their mouth is wide open and their lips are flared upward. This technique will help prevent sore nipples and engorged breasts and for the baby to receive enough milk.
2
BREASTFEED OFTEN
By breastfeeding often, you will help your body to establish a good milk supply, which will help ensure your baby is getting enough milk. It is recommended for newborns to be fed at least 8 to 12 times in 24-hours. It is important to pay close attention and learn your baby’s hunger cues, these will let you know when they are ready for a feeding.
3
AVOID INTRODUCING PACIFIERS & BOTTLES
In the early weeks, avoid introducing bottles and pacifiers if possible. Introducing a bottle or pacifier too early may cause nipple confusion for your child. This can make it more difficult for your baby to breastfeed effectively.
4
TAKE CARE OF YOUR BREASTS
Taking care of your breasts by keeping them dry, clean, wearing supportive bras, and using warm and cold compresses helps prevent engorged breasts and sore nipples.
5
REMAIN HYDRATED & NOURISHED
Remaining hydrated and nourished throughout your breastfeeding journey is essential for maintaining a healthy milk supply and overall health. A well-balanced diet of nutrient-rich foods and lots of water will help maintain a healthy breastfeeding lifestyle.
6
SEEK SUPPORT
Breastfeeding is not easy, know when to seek support. Our lactation counseling program provides guidance and support to ensure you and your baby are getting the most out of breastfeeding. IGNITE is here to help you overcome any challenges you face along the way, no matter where you may be in your breastfeeding journey.