What does a lactation consultant do

A lactation consultant is a certified health professional who acts as your personal guide for all things breastfeeding. Think of them as a coach for both you and your baby, providing expert, hands-on support for everything from a painful latch to worries about milk supply.

Your Partner in the Breastfeeding Journey

Navigating the first few days and weeks with a new baby can feel like a whirlwind, and feeding is often at the center of the storm. A lactation consultant steps in as a calm, knowledgeable partner to help you find your footing.

Their main job is to help you meet your personal feeding goals, whatever they may be. They bring evidence-based advice and practical, real-world solutions that are tailored to your unique situation. This support goes way beyond just the mechanics of feeding. It often involves a great deal of emotional reassurance, too.

In fact, a lactation consultant often provides crucial emotional support, creating a judgment-free space where you can share your concerns and frustrations. This is not unlike how individuals navigate other significant health journeys by proactively managing emotional wellbeing and seeking professional counselling.

Common Areas of Support

Lactation consultants tackle a huge range of challenges that new parents face. They don't just solve immediate problems. They empower you with skills and knowledge for the long term. Their expertise can truly make the difference between a stressful feeding experience and a positive, confident one.

If you're looking for some foundational knowledge to get started, you can also explore these general breastfeeding tips for new moms to build a solid start.

Some of the key services they provide include:

• Prenatal planning to help you prepare before the baby arrives, especially if you anticipate challenges.
• Hands-on latch and positioning assistance to ensure feeding is comfortable for you and effective for your baby.
• Milk supply management, addressing concerns about making too little or too much milk.
• Pumping guidance, from choosing the right pump to creating a sustainable pumping schedule.
• Return-to-work plans that help you continue your breastfeeding journey after going back to your job.

To give you a clearer picture of what this looks like in practice, here is a quick look at the support you can expect at different stages of your feeding journey.

Key Services from a Lactation Consultant

This table just scratches the surface, but it shows how a consultant’s role adapts as your needs change, from preparing for baby’s arrival to navigating life as a working parent. Their goal is to offer the right support at the right time.

Why Lactation Support Matters More Than You Think

When you picture a lactation consultant, you probably think of someone who helps fix a painful latch or suggests a new feeding position. And while they are experts at that, their real impact goes so much deeper, touching a family’s entire well-being during one of life's biggest transitions.

Their guidance isn't just about the mechanics of feeding. It’s about building a parent's confidence, dialing down the stress, and offering a steady hand when everything feels overwhelming. This is a critical piece of the postpartum puzzle that other healthcare providers, as wonderful as they are, often don't have the specialized training or time to provide.

Good lactation support is also a lifeline for a parent's mental health, helping with coping with anxiety and depression that so often creeps in during the postpartum period. A great consultant creates a safe, judgment-free space where you can voice your fears and frustrations.

More Than Just a Feeding Coach

Think of a lactation consultant as a core member of your postpartum team, right up there with your pediatrician. They bring a unique focus on the parent-baby duo, making sure both of you are thriving. Their work beautifully bridges the gap between the basic feeding advice you might get from a book and hands-on, clinical care.

This becomes especially vital when things get tough. Worries about milk supply, for example, are incredibly common and can be a huge source of anxiety. A consultant can offer a personalized plan to tackle those concerns head-on, often using strategies like the ones we cover in our guide on how to increase milk supply.

Their role is multi-faceted.

• Building Confidence. They arm you with the knowledge and skills to turn moments of self-doubt into "I've got this!" feelings of accomplishment.
• Providing Emotional Support. They listen with genuine empathy, validating the rollercoaster of emotions that comes with new parenthood.
• Preventing Larger Issues. By spotting and solving small problems early, they help you avoid bigger complications down the road, like severe nipple damage or a baby struggling to gain weight.

Ultimately, a consultant's job is to help you feel capable and in control of your feeding journey, whatever that looks like for you. They’re there to support your goals, whether that's exclusive breastfeeding, combo feeding, or exclusive pumping.

A lactation consultant is invaluable. They’re basically your breastfeeding fairy godmother, personal cheerleader, and new-parent support team all in one.

A Public Health Perspective

The work of a lactation consultant has ripple effects that extend far beyond a single family. By helping parents meet their breastfeeding goals and continue for longer, they make a direct contribution to public health.

The World Health Organization (WHO) identifies breastfeeding as one of the most effective ways to protect infant and maternal health. It helps shield babies from common infections like diarrhea and pneumonia and reduces long-term health risks for both mom and baby. Yet, only 48% of infants worldwide under six months are exclusively breastfed, falling short of the WHO’s goal.

By providing expert, one-on-one care, lactation consultants help close this gap, one family at a time. They are quietly promoting better health outcomes for generations to come.

What to Expect During Your Consultation

So, you’ve booked a consultation. What actually happens when the lactation consultant shows up at your door or on your screen?

First things first, they listen. A great consultation always starts with your story. They’ll create a safe, judgment-free space for you to share your feeding goals, your worries, and what your journey has been like so far.

They'll ask about your baby’s birth, your medical history, how feedings have been going, and any pain or discomfort you're experiencing. This isn't just small talk. It's the foundation for creating a plan that’s tailored specifically for you and your baby.

Preparation Tips

To make the most of your session, it helps to have a few things ready. Think of it like getting your ingredients together before you start cooking. It just makes everything smoother.

• A recent feeding log showing when and for how long your baby nursed.
• A few clean diapers on hand so the consultant can check your baby’s output.
• Your breast pump and any accessories like nipple shields that you’ve been using.
• A bottle of water and a snack for yourself. You’re working hard!

Initial Assessment

This is where the hands-on (or eyes-on, for virtual visits) work begins. Your consultant will likely ask to watch a full feeding from start to finish. This is their chance to see exactly how your baby latches and transfers milk in real-time.

They’re looking at a few key things:

• Latch Quality: Is your baby’s mouth wide enough? Are they taking in enough of the areola?
• Positioning: Are you and your baby comfortable? Is your baby well-aligned to make swallowing easy?
• Milk Transfer: Are there audible swallows? Does your baby seem satisfied after the feed?
• Maternal Comfort: Is there any visible tension in your shoulders or back? Are you wincing in pain?

Practical Demonstration

After watching a feed, your consultant will start offering gentle, practical suggestions. It’s a bit like having a personal coach who can spot the tiny adjustments that make a huge difference.

They might guide you through a different hold, like the football hold or laid-back nursing, to see if it improves the latch. If needed, they could show you how to properly use a tool like a nipple shield.

1. They’ll help you get into a new position and encourage your baby to latch.
2. If you're using a tool, they'll demonstrate exactly how to apply or use it.
3. Then, they’ll watch another feed to see if the changes are helping.

Virtual Visit Setup

If your appointment is online, the experience is just as thorough. Your consultant will guide you on setting up your camera to get the best possible view of you and the baby. They might ask you to adjust the lighting or move closer to the screen.

It’s amazing how much an expert can see through a screen. They’ll still be able to assess the latch, check positioning, and listen for swallowing, providing the same high-quality advice you’d get in person.

“Having a consultant watch my feed felt like having a supportive coach beside me,” shares a parent.

Follow-Up Plan

A good consultation doesn't end when the appointment is over. You'll leave with a clear, personalized plan with actionable next steps. Sessions typically run about 60 minutes, giving you plenty of time to practice new techniques and get your questions answered.

Your care plan will often include:

• A feeding log template to help you track progress.
• Recommendations for a follow-up visit, often within 1 week.
• Specific contact information for asking quick questions between appointments.

The goal is to leave you feeling confident, capable, and supported. Your consultant will often follow up with resources, like short videos demonstrating a technique you learned.

Once you have your plan, you can use resources like our guide on finding a lactation consultant near you to book your next appointment and continue your journey.

Signs You Should Call a Lactation Consultant

Many new parents wonder if what they’re going through is "bad enough" to call for help. The simple answer is this: no concern is ever too small when it comes to feeding your baby and your own well-being. It’s always better to get support early, before a little hiccup turns into a major roadblock.

It's completely normal to hesitate, but you don't have to figure this out alone. In fact, you're in good company if you reach out. A recent survey found that nearly 63% of breastfeeding parents in the U.S. now rely on lactation consultants for solid information and support. That makes them the most trusted resource out there, more than Google searches or even well-meaning family advice. You can see more insights from the State of Breastfeeding Survey and learn why so many parents are turning to the experts.

Knowing when to make that call can bring huge peace of mind. Certain red flags are clear signals that a consultant's expertise could make all the difference.

Common Reasons to Seek Help

If you're dealing with any physical discomfort or have that nagging worry about your baby's health, it’s a good time to call. A consultant can give you an expert assessment and a personalized plan to get you both back on track.

Here are some of the most common signs it’s time to bring in a professional.

• Persistent Nipple Pain: Some tenderness in the first few days can be normal, but breastfeeding should not be a toe-curling, painful ordeal. If you have lasting pain, cracked nipples, or bleeding, it's a clear sign something is off with the latch or positioning.
• Baby Isn’t Gaining Weight: If your pediatrician has concerns about your baby’s weight gain or you’re not seeing enough wet and dirty diapers, a consultant can help. They can do a weighted feed to measure exactly how much milk your baby is actually transferring during a feeding.
• Concerns About Milk Supply: Whether you’re worried you aren’t making enough milk or you're struggling with an oversupply, a consultant can help you regulate your production to perfectly match your baby’s needs.
• Recurrent Plugged Ducts or Mastitis: Dealing with frequent clogs or infections is physically and emotionally draining. A good consultant can help you figure out the root cause to stop the cycle from repeating.

Sometimes, feeding issues stem from a baby’s anatomy. If you suspect your little one might have a lip or tongue-tie, our guide explains how a lactation consultant can help with diagnosis and creating a care plan.

Proactive Support is Also an Option

You don’t have to wait for a problem to pop up before connecting with a lactation consultant. Being proactive can set you up for success right from the start and help you feel much more confident.

Think of a prenatal consultation as creating a roadmap for your feeding journey. It's about preparing for the road ahead, not just reacting to unexpected detours.

Here are a few times when planning ahead is a fantastic idea.

• If You're Expecting Multiples: Feeding twins or triplets brings a unique set of challenges and logistics. A consultant can help you strategize.
• If You Have a History of Breast Surgery: Previous surgeries can sometimes impact milk production. A consultant can work with you to create a realistic feeding plan.
• If You Had Past Feeding Difficulties: If you struggled to feed a previous baby, getting support in place early can make a world of difference this time around.

So, what does a lactation consultant do in these situations? They offer reassurance, evidence-based strategies, and a healthy dose of empowerment to help you meet your own goals.

Understanding Lactation Consultant Credentials

When you start looking for feeding support, you’ll likely come across a few different titles, like IBCLC, CLC, or peer counselor. It can get a little confusing, but knowing what these credentials mean is the key to choosing the right person for your unique situation. Not all lactation support is created equal, and the level of training behind each title varies quite a bit.

The Gold Standard: IBCLC

The highest credential in the lactation world is the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). Think of an IBCLC as the clinical specialist you’d see for complex medical challenges. They are certified healthcare professionals who have completed thousands of hours of hands-on clinical training, extensive health science coursework, and passed a tough international exam.

This rigorous process, often taking years, equips them to handle everything from basic latch questions to serious clinical issues like low milk supply, tongue-ties, or feeding difficulties related to premature birth. Because they can provide clinical care, IBCLCs are considered the gold standard and work in hospitals, private practices, and specialty clinics.

Other Forms of Lactation Support

On the other hand, a Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) or a peer counselor offers incredibly valuable support, just with a different focus. Their training is less intensive and centers more on education and encouragement for common breastfeeding situations. They are a fantastic resource for general questions, building confidence, and finding community support, but they aren't qualified to manage complex medical feeding issues.

If you're weighing your options, learning more about the key differences between a CLC vs. IBCLC can help you decide which professional best aligns with your needs.

This infographic breaks down some of the most common reasons parents reach out for expert help, showing exactly when a lactation consultant's skills are essential. As you can see, persistent pain, worries about low supply, and baby's weight gain are often the primary triggers for seeking professional guidance.

The demand for these skilled professionals is on the rise. Globally, there are around 35,000 certified lactation consultants, with a large number practicing in the United States. Research has shown a clear connection between a higher density of lactation consultants in an area and better breastfeeding outcomes for families.

Understanding the different qualifications can help you choose the right professional for your needs. Here’s a quick comparison.

Lactation Support Credentials Compared

Ultimately, choosing the right credential really matters. For straightforward encouragement and community, a peer counselor is wonderful. For clinical problem-solving and medical advice, an IBCLC is the expert you need.

How to Find and Pay for a Lactation Consultant

Knowing you need help is one thing; figuring out where to find a qualified professional and how to handle the bill is another. Luckily, there are a handful of reliable ways to find support, and you might be pleasantly surprised by your payment options.

Your search can start in a few familiar places. Many hospitals keep a list of trusted lactation consultants they can share with you before you even head home. Your pediatrician or OB-GYN is another fantastic resource, as they often have a network of local lactation experts they can refer you to.

You can also turn to online directories like Bornbir to quickly connect with vetted professionals in your area. It’s a great way to compare providers, read reviews from other parents, and find someone who feels like the right fit for your family.

Covering the Cost of Care

One of the biggest questions on every parent's mind is cost. Here's the good news: under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), many health insurance plans are required to cover lactation counseling and support. This could mean your visits are covered at 100% with no out-of-pocket cost.

To figure out your specific coverage, flip over your insurance card and call the member services number. Ask them directly about your benefits for "preventive lactation services."

It’s a great idea to confirm your coverage before your baby arrives. That one simple phone call can save you a ton of time and stress during those blurry, busy early postpartum days.

If you don't have insurance or your plan doesn’t offer full coverage, you still have options. Many hospitals offer free breastfeeding support groups led by lactation professionals. Community health clinics or local WIC offices are also great places to check for low-cost or free lactation services.

Questions to Ask a Potential Consultant

Once you have a few potential candidates, a quick chat can help you nail down your final choice. The most important thing is finding someone you click with and feel comfortable opening up to.

Here are a few key questions to get the conversation started:

• What are your credentials (e.g., IBCLC, CLC)?
• What's your experience with my specific concern (like low milk supply or feeding twins)?
• Can you walk me through what a typical consultation with you looks like?
• Do you offer follow-up support through text or email after our visit?

Frequently Asked Questions About Lactation Support

It's completely normal to have a few questions lingering in your mind. It just means you’re thinking carefully about what a lactation consultant does and how they can fit into your life after baby arrives. Let's walk through some of the most common things parents ask.

How Many Times Will I Need to See a Consultant?

There's really no magic number here. It all comes down to your unique situation. Some families get everything they need in just one session, maybe to fine-tune a tricky latch or just get a boost of confidence. Others who are navigating more complex challenges, like feeding a preemie or dealing with low milk supply, might find a few follow-up appointments incredibly helpful.

Your consultant will work with you to create a care plan and suggest a schedule that feels right for your family and your goals.

The point isn't to hit a certain number of visits. It’s about getting just the right amount of support until you feel comfortable and confident in how you're feeding your baby.

Can They Help with Pumping, Too?

Yes, absolutely! A lactation consultant's expertise goes way beyond nursing directly at the breast. They are a fantastic, and often essential, resource for parents who are pumping.

A consultant can help you:

• Build a pumping schedule that protects and establishes your milk supply.
• Check your pump flange sizes to make sure you have the right fit. This is crucial for both comfort and maximizing how much milk you get.
• Show you bottle-feeding techniques, like paced feeding, that can help your baby switch between breast and bottle without any fuss.

What's the Difference Between a Hospital and Private Consultant?

The lactation consultants you meet in the hospital are a wonderful first line of support, especially in those first few hours and days. The catch is that their time is often split between many, many new parents on the floor.

A private practice IBCLC, on the other hand, can offer more focused, one-on-one care, often right in the comfort of your own home. They can stick with you over weeks or even months, which is a game-changer for working through those tougher, more persistent feeding issues.

Finding the right support shouldn't add another layer of stress to your plate. On Bornbir, you can easily connect with thousands of vetted lactation consultants, doulas, and night nannies to find the perfect match for your family's needs. Find and compare providers on Bornbir today.