A lactation consultation is an appointment where we evaluate both mother and infant to determine the best way to support your goals for breastfeeding. The consultation will take place in your home and the initial visit takes approximately 1-2 hours to complete.
During the lactation consultation we will gather information about maternal, prenatal, birth and feeding history. There will be observation of a feeding including evaluation of the mother, breast anatomy, infant oral examination including strength and coordination of suck, estimation of milk supply, pre- and post-feeding weights and any other pertinent information.
In addition the infant oral exam, a feeding assessment will take place where the consultant observes the baby’s feeding cues, pre-feeding behaviors, and response to the feeding, as well as the ability to transfer milk – a complex, integrated activity.
At the end of the visit the lactation consultant will document the findings and will provide a plan agreed upon by both the mother and the consultant. Following the consultation, your pediatrician and OB will receive a summary of the consultation if you consent for the release of information.