Lactation Consultation

Lactation Support for Breastfeeding Families

Mom breastfeeds new born healthy baby

Breastfeeding your baby can be an amazing and rewarding experience. For some, it is easy and natural. Others may experience challenges that are easily corrected with a few minor adjustments. If you are expecting your first baby and would like to learn more about breastfeeding, Commonwealth Pediatrics is the place for you. We are pleased to provide in-house lactation consultations that will support you and work with you and your baby to accomplish your breastfeeding goals.

What Is A Lactation Consultant?

A lactation consultant is a healthcare professional who specializes in providing support and guidance to breastfeeding mothers and their infants. The primary role of a lactation consultant is to assist and empower mothers in overcoming challenges related to breastfeeding and to promote successful breastfeeding experiences. Our lactation consultants are Internationally Board Certified professionals with specialized training in lactation and breastfeeding management.

How Does A Lactation Consultation Work?

When a mother encounters difficulties or concerns with breastfeeding, a lactation consultation can assess and address issues such as:

  • Latch problems

  • Low milk supply

  • Nipple pain (sore, cracked nipples)

  • Engorgement

  • Plugged ducts

  • Mastitis

Lactation consultants work closely with mothers to offer practical advice, demonstrate proper breastfeeding techniques and provide information on breastfeeding positions and routines.

If you are expecting and interested in breastfeeding your baby, our lactation consultants can discuss the benefits of breastfeeding. They can provide evidence-based information on breastfeeding nutrition, maintaining milk supply, and navigating challenges that may arise during the breastfeeding journey.

The support of a lactation consultation can make a significant difference in the breastfeeding experience, helping mothers to feel more confident and successful in providing optimal nutrition and bonding with their infants through breastfeeding.

Benefits Of Breastfeeding

Breast milk contains all of the nutrients your baby needs to be healthy, to grow and to develop. Breastfeeding offers many essential benefits for both infants and mothers, making it one of the most valuable and natural ways to nourish and nurture a baby. Some of the many benefits of breastmilk include:

  • The perfect balance of nutrients, fats, proteins, enzymes and antibodies that promote healthy growth and development

  • Contains antibodies and immune factors that help protect babies from infections and illnesses

  • Reduces the risk of respiratory infections, gastrointestinal disorders and even certain chronic diseases later in life

  • Lowers the incidence of allergies, asthma and obesity in children

  • Creates an intimate bond between the mother and baby, promoting emotional attachment and security

For mothers, breastfeeding offers numerous advantages as well, such as:

  • Nursing produces a hormone called oxytocin, and this hormone aids in postpartum recovery by helping the uterus contract and reducing postpartum bleeding.

Mother Baby Healthy Sweet Parenthood Lactation Support
  • Breastfeeding burns calories, making it easier to lose weight after childbirth.

  • Breastfeeding has been associated with a reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancers, as well as a lower likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes and osteoporosis later in life.

  • Conveniently feed your newborn anywhere without needing supplies.

  • The act of breastfeeding can also be a deeply satisfying and rewarding experience for mothers, strengthening the maternal bond and boosting their confidence in nurturing their child.

Commonwealth Pediatrics, along with the American Academy of Pediatrics, recommends breastfeeding your baby for at least 6 months if possible. Beyond the health benefits, breastfeeding is cost-effective, convenient and healthy for mother and baby. Breastfeeding is a natural way to provide the best start in life for infants while promoting numerous health and emotional benefits for mothers, making it an invaluable aspect of early motherhood.

Breastfeeding Basics

Seeking support from a lactation consultant or healthcare professional can be immensely helpful, especially if any challenges or concerns arise during breastfeeding. They can provide guidance, address common breastfeeding issues and offer reassurance to help mothers feel more confident and successful in their breastfeeding journey. Some basic breastfeeding information that may be beneficial if you are expecting your first baby is listed below:

  • Establishing a proper latch is essential for effective breastfeeding. A correct latch allows the baby to properly suckle and receive enough milk while preventing discomfort or nipple pain for the mother. It’s important to ensure that the baby’s mouth covers a significant portion of the areola, not just the nipple.

  • Babies will nurse frequently and on demand. Newborns have small stomachs and need to feed often, sometimes every 2 to 3 hours.

  • Responding to the baby’s hunger cues, such as rooting, sucking on fingers, or turning towards the breast, is essential for maintaining a healthy milk supply and keeping the baby satisfied.

  • Mothers should prioritize their own well-being during breastfeeding. Staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet and getting enough rest are crucial for maintaining milk production and overall health.

  • Breastfeeding is a learned skill for both the mother and the baby. It may take time to establish a comfortable routine, but with patience, persistence and support, breastfeeding can become a beautiful and rewarding experience for both the mother and the baby, fostering a strong emotional bond and providing numerous health benefits for the little one.

Request A Lactation Consultation Today

If you are interested in learning more about breastfeeding and would like to set up an appointment with one of our lactation consultants, fill out our online appointment request form. Our goal is to help you be successful and confident in feeding your newborn!

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Ready For Quality Pediatric Care?

High-quality pediatric services are just a click away! The Commonwealth Pediatrics team is dedicated to providing families with compassionate, patient-focused care you can trust. We put our patients first, and that starts before you ever set foot in our office. If you’re ready to schedule an appointment with us, fill out our online appointment request form.