12 Questions to Ask a Lactation Consultant

Becoming a new parent is an exciting and overwhelming experience. If you've decided to embark on the breastfeeding journey, you've probably got more questions to ask than answers, and that's totally normal. 

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This is where a lactation consultant can be a lifesaver. A lactation consultant is a trained professional who can help you with all sorts of breastfeeding challenges. They can help you 

• Assess your latch: Ensure your baby is latching on correctly to prevent pain and nipple damage.
• Identify and resolve feeding issues: Whether it's low milk supply, tongue-tie, or a fussy baby, they can help.
• Teach pumping techniques: They can show you the most effective methods if you need to pump.
• Provide support and encouragement: Breastfeeding can be tough, and having someone to talk to can make a big difference.

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Before Your Appointment

Before your first appointment, it’s good to prepare a list of queries. This will help you make the most of your consultation time. But what to ask your lactation consultant? Here are some questions for you to consider.

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1. What is your philosophy on breastfeeding?

A lactation consultant's philosophy influences their approach to breastfeeding. Understanding their perspective on topics like feeding on demand, paced feeding, and the use of supplemental formula can help you make informed decisions about your baby's feeding. 

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Ask your consultant about their beliefs on:

• Feeding frequency: Do they advocate for feeding on demand or following a strict schedule?
• Breast milk exclusivity: Do they encourage exclusive breastfeeding for a certain period?
• Supplemental formula: Under what circumstances do they recommend using the formula?
• Pacifier use: What is their stance on pacifier use and its potential impact on breastfeeding?

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Knowing your consultant’s philosophy can help you determine if it aligns with your parenting style and approach to breastfeeding.

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2. Do you offer virtual consultations? 

Virtual consultations can be a convenient option, especially for those who have limited mobility.  If virtual consultations are available, you can discuss your breastfeeding concerns and receive personalised advice from the comfort of your own home.

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During Your Appointment

During your appointment, be open and honest with your lactation consultant about any concerns or challenges you're facing. Don't hesitate to ask any questions, no matter how small they may seem. A good lactation consultant will be patient and understanding, and they'll work with you to find solutions that work best for you and your baby.

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3. Is my baby latching on correctly and how can I improve my breastfeeding position? 

This is a commonly asked question as a good latch is crucial for effective feeding and to prevent nipple pain. Ask your lactation consultant to observe a feeding and give you feedback.

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Some common breastfeeding positions that you can try include the football hold, cross-cradle hold, and side-lying position. A lactation consultant can teach you different breastfeeding positions and techniques to ensure comfort and easy feeding.

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4. How often should I feed my baby? 

Understanding the recommended breastfeeding duration can help you make informed decisions about your baby's feeding.

Newborns usually feed every 2-3 hours. Typically, many mums breastfeed their babies on demand, which means feeding your bub whenever they show signs of hunger like:

• Wiggling and fussing
• Opening their mouth
• Sticking out their tongue
• Bringing their hands to their face

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Crying is a late cue so it's important to feed your baby before they start crying as this can make it harder for them to latch. Rest assured, you can't overfeed a breastfed baby.

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5. How can I increase my milk supply? 

Knowing how to increase milk supply is important because it can help ensure that your baby is getting enough milk to grow and thrive.

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To increase your milk supply, it's important to focus on frequent feeding. The more often your bub nurses, the more milk your body will produce. Make sure your baby is latching correctly to ensure efficient milk transfer.  

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Skin-to-skin contact can also stimulate milk production. Spend quality time with your baby, holding them skin-to-skin, especially after feedings.

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Post-natal massages have also been shown to be effective in increasing milk supply. Massaging your breasts gently can help stimulate milk flow and relieve stress, which can positively impact milk production. You can either self-massage or ask a qualified massage therapist for assistance.

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In addition to these strategies, consider your overall health and well-being. Adequate rest, a healthy confinement diet can boost your body’s recovery and contribute to a healthy milk supply. 

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6. How do I know if my baby is getting enough milk? 

Learning how to assess if your baby is getting enough milk can help you feel more confident in your breastfeeding journey.

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Your lactation consultant can help you track your baby's feeding and growth. On your own, you can determine if your baby is getting enough milk by looking out for a few key signs:

• Wet and dirty diapers: A well-fed baby will have frequent wet and dirty diapers. In the early days, you should expect six to eight wet diapers and three to four bowel movements per day. As your baby grows, these numbers may decrease slightly.
• Weight gain: Your baby should be gaining weight steadily. Your healthcare provider can track your baby's growth during regular check-ups.
• Satisfied baby: A well-fed baby is content and satisfied after feedings. They may fall asleep peacefully or engage in other activities.
• Feeding cues: Pay attention to your baby's feeding cues, such as rooting, sucking motions, and crying.

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You can also try out these confinement food recipes for breastfeeding mamas to nourish your body and boost milk production.

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7. How can I manage common breastfeeding challenges like sore nipples, plugged ducts, and mastitis? 

Sore nipples are a common early breastfeeding challenge. Proper latching is key to preventing this. Ensure that your baby's mouth is wide open, covering both the nipple and areola. If you're still experiencing soreness, try:

• Frequent, shorter feedings: This can reduce the amount of time your nipples are exposed to sucking.
• Silver nursing cups: Silver has natural antimicrobial properties that can help prevent infection. These cups can be worn between feedings to protect sore nipples and promote healing.

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Meanwhile, a plugged duct occurs when milk is unable to drain properly, causing a tender lump in your breast. To relieve a plugged duct:

• Frequent feedings: Feed your baby frequently, especially from the affected breast.
• Warm compresses: Apply warm compresses to the affected area before feeding.
• Massage: Gently massage the affected area toward the nipple.
• Hand expression: Gently express milk from the plugged duct.

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Mastitis is a breast infection that can cause pain, redness, swelling, and fever. If you suspect mastitis, it's important to see a healthcare provider promptly. In the meantime, you can try:

• Frequent feedings: Feed your baby frequently, especially from the affected breast.
• Rest: Get plenty of rest.
• Pain relief: Take over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
• Warm compresses: Apply warm compresses to the affected area.
• Antibiotics: Your healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection.

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8. Can I breastfeed if I'm sick or taking medication?

Many parents have asked lactation consultants this question as it helps mummies determine if one can continue breastfeeding while unwell. 

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Yes, you can often continue breastfeeding even if you have a cold or need to take medication. In fact, breastfeeding can pass antibodies to your baby, helping to boost their immune system. 

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Most medications are safe to take while breastfeeding. However, it's always best to consult with your healthcare provider or lactation consultant before taking any medication, especially during breastfeeding. They can advise you on safe medications and dosage.

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9. When to start pumping? 

Knowing when to start pumping can help you establish a good pumping routine and maintain your milk supply.

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While it may be tempting to start right away, it's best to wait until you're closer to returning to work. For instance, if you plan to go back in six weeks, you could begin pumping twice daily at the four-week mark. 

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A good time to pump is about 30 minutes after your baby's first-morning feed and again during their longest nap. A lactation consultant can provide a practical schedule and tips for pumping, storing milk, and maintaining your milk supply.

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10. How long should I breastfeed? 

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusively breastfeeding your baby for the first six months. After that, it's ideal to continue breastfeeding while gradually introducing solid foods for at least another six months. 

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Many parents start with rice cereal as their baby's first solid food and then progress to fruits and vegetables. You can offer your baby a variety of foods that they enjoy, simply mashing or pureeing them as needed.

After Your Appointment

After your appointment, take some time to reflect on the information and advice you received. Implement the recommended strategies and techniques, and don't be afraid to reach out to your lactation consultant if you have any questions to ask. 

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11. Are there any breastfeeding support groups or online communities you recommend? 

Connecting with other breastfeeding mummies can be incredibly helpful and a valuable source of support and information. Ask your lactation consultant if they know of any local support groups or online communities. 

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These groups can provide emotional support, mental health support, practical advice, and a sense of camaraderie. Sharing questions and experiences from others can make a significant difference in your breastfeeding journey.

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12. How can I reach you if I have questions or concerns after our appointment? 

Knowing you have someone to turn to can provide peace of mind and help you navigate any challenges that may arise.

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It's important to have a clear plan for follow-up support. Ask your lactation consultant how you can best reach them with questions or concerns. This could be through email or phone. 

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Remember, every breastfeeding journey is unique. Don't hesitate to ask your lactation consultant any questions you may have. Their expertise and support can make a significant difference in your breastfeeding experience.