When choosing a lactation consultant, look for the credentials IBCLC. This stands for International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. IBCLC's have an extensive amount of experience with helping breastfeeding mothers in different and challenging situations. Also, an IBCLC has to recertify through continuing education every five year and examination every ten years to ensure current knowledge about lactation research and practices.
Arrange to see or at least talk to an IBCLC when:
Your baby does not latch on to the breast
You have sore/painful/cracked and bleeding nipples
Your baby does not gain enough weight or is loosing weight
You have had breast surgery or breasttrauma in the past
Your baby has special needs (i.e. cleft palate or cleft lip, Down syndrome)
You have special needs that may have an impact on breastfeeding
You have problems with milksupply (oversupply or low supply)
Your baby is born premature
You have an adoptive baby that you would like to breastfeed or you want to breastfeed after you stopped nursing your baby
You would like to buy or rent a breastpump
You are told that your baby needs formula supplements
During a consultation, an assessment of mother and baby is made. The baby may we weighed and the baby�s mouth may be checked with a gloved finger. A suck assessment on the finger can be done if needed. The lactation consultant will assist you with latch on and discuss your options to improve your breastfeeding experience. In some cases, a second weight check to track improvements is in order. The lactation consultant will evaluate your progress and schedule a follow-up consultation if necessary.
For lactation support from an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, call Nanny Gortzak, IBCLC at 949-8563058. Nanny has more than 10 years of experience with helping breastfeeding mothers and their babies in all of the above mentioned situations.