Types of Lactation Visits

I do three types of lactation visits. Fathers can be included in the instruction.

1. Prenatal assessment and breastfeeding instruction

This can be done in the home and includes:

• a mother's health history
• instruction on how to get a deep latch
• various feeding positions
• how to avoid sore nipples
• how to avoid engorgement
• how to know when your baby is hungry
• the importance of skin to skin
• soothing techniques
• nutrition
• the importance of having the baby put on her tummy right after birth while the placenta is being delivered
• the importance of having the baby's first breastfeeding take place within the first hour of birth
• how to avoid being separated from the baby while in the hospital, and much more

2. Early postpartum visit for one of baby's first feedings
This visit can be done in the hospital soon after baby is born. If I haven't seen you before, it will include:

• mother's health history
• history of your labor and delivery
• physical assessment of the baby
• breast exam of mother
• feeding observation/instruction
• latch and positioning assistance as needed
• feeding and satiation cues
• breastfeeding management for the first few days
• the importance of skin to skin with the baby
• pre-term or late pre-term instruction if appropriate
• assistance with other issues that may arise
• customized care plan

3. Home visit after hospital discharge
This visit can take place in the days soon after discharge, or later, and includes:

• mother and baby health history
• physical assessment of baby
• breast assessment
• observation of feeding
• assistance with latch and positioning
• nude weight, and pre and post feeding baby weights
• hunger and satiation cues
• how to know if baby is getting enough milk
• when supplementation is needed
• alternative feeding methods if needed
• pumping and storing human milk
• management of sore nipples
• management of engorgement
• dealing with low milk supply
• cluster feedings
• dealing with over abundant milk production
• poor weight gain
• dealing with a fussy baby
• nutrition
• adequate rest for mom
• information and/or screening for postpartum depression
• provision of appropriate supplies and literature
• a personalized care plan
• follow up phone calls and emails, timely report to your physician.

Any of these visits may include more or less of what is listed, but this gives you a general idea of what is involved. If you can have only one visit, I would suggest that the visit after discharge would be the best one to select--as that is when many breastfeeding challenges start to show up. Having a prenatal visit can give parents enough knowledge to help prevent many breastfeeding problems. A visit for baby's first feeding, can help mom have a good latch and positioning from the very beginning, as well as breastfeeding management tips that will help to prevent problems as her milk comes in.
Most mother's and fathers are greatly encouraged and much more confident after a visit. It is my aim to make sure the baby is well fed, and that things are going in a way that is good for the baby and the parents. Breastfeeding involves the whole family. I want to help you meet your breastfeeding goals. I also want you to enjoy the precious new life in your growing family!