Supporting Breastfeeding Goals: The Early Benefits of an IBCLC Lactation Consultant

When mothers first come to see me, they tell me a story of too much information, of feeling overwhelmed, many have pain and are exhausted. Changing this story is the focus of our sessions and the earlier in the parenting journey this happens the easier the journey becomes.

Support is not about giving rules and structure, it is about educating parents on the biological instincts and behaviours of their babies and their own bodies. Babies are born with reflexes that help them to survive, these instincts when facilitated will enable babies to feed effectively and efficiently. Understanding these instincts and our own instincts can make the journey more relaxing and help to avoid the complications that can occur.

Support is about working alongside families, offering guidance and advice. There are many ways to parent our babies, and this can lead to confusion for many parents. Support in a breastfeeding session means working on a plan together to ensure that the steps feel comfortable and align with your parenting values. Breastfeeding is so much more than milk and weight gain. It is about connection and understanding, learning from your baby and your baby learning from you.

Support can help you determine your breastfeeding goals, working with someone who can help you find your feet and understand what your baby is trying to tell you can help you gain confidence and competence in your parenting. Someone who can help lessen your fear and help you surrender and enjoy the early weeks and months of parenting.

Seeing and IBCLC early can support your goals and reduce issues from occurring making your journey so much more enjoyable. You can even get support and education before your baby is born, this will help you build a support network for when your baby arrives and further lessen the risk of issues arising.

International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLC) are experts in breastfeeding, they have years of experience working with families and can help with education and support. They can also help with issues that arise along the breastfeeding journey, from pain, poor weight gain, supply and expressing to biting or weaning issues.

Sharon is a registered Child Health Nurse and IBCLC with more than 25 years of experience working with families in both public and private settings.