Lactation consultants are nursing professionals who help new mothers as they learn to breastfeed and care for their babies. Breastfeeding is a journey, and most mothers are learning as they go. A lactation consultant answers questions, provides guidance, and helps you master this valuable part of motherhood in a way that works for both you and your little one. If you plan on breastfeeding, here are just a few reasons to hire a lactations consultant after giving birth.
Your Baby Has Trouble Gaining Weight
It’s easy to fret about your baby’s health, especially during the first few months of their life. If your baby isn’t gaining weight and hitting the milestones they need to, a lactation consultant can help ease your worries and find a solution. By working closely with you and your baby, a nursing professional will be able to identify the problem and walk you through how to handle it until you and your baby are on the right track again.
You Have Multiples
Twins, triplets, and more put a lot on your plate. You might be wondering how on earth you’re going to balance breastfeeding multiples on top of all the other responsibilities you now have. When you work with a lactation consultant, you can find a balance that gives your babies what they need without wearing you out. From learning how to feed two babies at once to managing your supply and everyone’s nutritional needs, a lactation consultant is a pillar to lean on when you’re raising multiples.
You Have a Baby With Special Needs
A cleft palate, Down syndrome, or other conditions can make breastfeeding difficult for your baby. It’s not impossible, though. One of the most critical reasons to hire a lactation consultant after giving birth is to help your child with special needs navigate breastfeeding and get the nutrients they need. You and your little one might have to take extra steps to learn what’s comfortable for both of you. A lactation consultant will help you along the way with expert knowledge and recommendations for best practices.
You Have Questions
Who isn’t full of questions, doubts, and frustrations when their baby is born? Parenting is a learning experience. While you can learn a lot of what you need to know about breastfeeding through research, talking to your current doctors, and even asking other women in your life, you’re still going to have questions. A lactation consultant has the experience, patience, and gentle guidance to help you through every up and down you face along the way.
