Lactation Consultant

A lactation consultant is a trained specialist in breastfeeding who provides support and guidance to new mothers. These experts are skilled in assessing and addressing various breastfeeding issues, such as increasing milk supply, proper latching techniques, and managing pain. They also offer prenatal education to prepare couples for breastfeeding. It’s best to seek advice from an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), ensuring you receive the highest standard of care.

The optimal time to seek lactation consultation is during the third trimester. A lactation consultant can help you mentally and physically prepare for breastfeeding, demonstrate proper baby-holding techniques, and offer advice on everything from choosing the best breast pump to how partners can support new mothers. Consulting a lactation specialist is especially crucial for premature infants or those with physical or neurological challenges.

• Preparing for Breastfeeding:
  • Benefits of breastfeeding for both mother and baby
  • Preparing the breasts for breastfeeding
  • Choosing the right breastfeeding position
  • Essential breastfeeding tools
• Breastfeeding Techniques:
  • Proper latching techniques
  • Hand and pump expression of breast milk
  • Storing breast milk
  • Addressing potential issues (nipple pain, blocked ducts, etc.)

• Exclusive Breastfeeding:
  • Benefits of exclusive breastfeeding
  • Feeding schedules for the first six months
  • Signs your baby is getting enough milk
  • Increasing milk supply
• Combining Breastfeeding with Formula:
  • Choosing the right formula
  • Balancing breastfeeding with bottle feeding
  • Troubleshooting combination feeding issues
• Breastfeeding While Working:
  • Expressing milk at work
  • Storing breast milk during work
  • Breastfeeding after work

• Feeding Aversion in Babies:
  • Causes of feeding aversion
  • Strategies to address feeding aversion
  • Maintaining milk supply with a reluctant feeder
• Slow Weight Gain in Breastfed Babies:
  • Reasons for slow weight gain
  • Assessing your baby's weight gain
  • Medical interventions if necessary
• Maternal Health Issues:
  • Breastfeeding while ill
  • Breastfeeding with medication use
  • Managing stress and its impact on breastfeeding
  • Addressing issues like blocked ducts, mastitis, and abscesses

• Introducing Solid Foods:
  • When to start solids
  • Safe and nutritious first foods
  • Preparing solid foods safely
• Continuing Breastfeeding After Six Months:
  • Benefits of continued breastfeeding
  • Breastfeeding schedules after six months
  • Addressing challenges in extended breastfeeding

• Psychological Aspects of Breastfeeding:
  • Coping with breastfeeding pressures and anxieties
  • Managing guilt about not exclusively breastfeeding
  • Maintaining a positive outlook during breastfeeding
• Family and Community Support:
  • The role of partners in supporting breastfeeding
  • Seeking help from other breastfeeding mothers
• Counseling and FAQs:
  • Answering common breastfeeding questions
  • Providing educational resources on breastfeeding
  • Supporting mothers through breastfeeding challenges

Note: This summary addresses common concerns, but lactation consultants can provide personalized advice based on individual needs.

• Download the Wellcare app from the App Store or Google Play and create an account.
• Select a specialist in lactation.
• Prepare detailed information, including symptoms, relevant images, or videos.
• List any questions you have for the consultant.

• Connect with the consultant via video or phone call.
• Discuss your health concerns and receive guidance.
• The consultant will provide a diagnosis and treatment plan, if needed.

• Review your medical records and prescriptions in the app.
• Provide feedback on the service to help Wellcare improve.

• Time Efficiency: Consult anytime, anywhere without waiting in lines.
• Expert Doctors: Access reputable and experienced specialists.
• Privacy: Your personal information is securely protected.
• Affordability: Choose from various cost-effective packages.

• Ensure a stable internet connection for a smooth consultation.
• Choose a quiet space for your consultation.
• Provide as much detail as possible to help the doctor make an accurate diagnosis.