I’m a lactation consultant, but my journey began as a mother. Before I understood the role of lactation consultants or the complexities surrounding breastfeeding, I simply wanted to nourish my baby. Like many new moms, I faced challenges: my son wouldn’t latch. Each time I offered my breast, he turned away as if rejecting something unappetizing. I felt crushed, disconnected from my body and my baby.
My desire to breastfeed stemmed from a deep instinct rather than any external pressure. It just felt right, a natural part of motherhood that I had always envisioned. Fortunately, the doulas who supported my birth were there to help. They patiently guided my son to latch, blending kindness with practical support. But when I asked if they were lactation consultants, they chuckled and said, “No, you need like 2,000 hours of experience to do that.”
They were right. To become a lactation consultant, I needed to log 2,000 hours of one-on-one time with breastfeeding mothers, coupled with extensive coursework in both science and specialized breastfeeding topics. Like my initial struggle with breastfeeding, this journey demanded dedication and passion.
However, as I’ve worked with mothers over the years—especially with the rise of online communities—I’ve noticed that not every experience with lactation consultants is as uplifting as mine. Some mothers report feeling pressured to breastfeed, feeling unheard, or even shamed when choosing to stop. Unfortunately, just as in any profession, a few individuals may not exhibit the kindness and empathy that are crucial in our field.
It’s important to recognize that not everyone offering breastfeeding assistance is a certified lactation consultant. There are various levels of support, including breastfeeding counselors who may have completed shorter courses. Those of us with the IBCLC designation have undergone rigorous training and experience to ensure we can provide the best help possible.
Here are seven things you might not know about lactation consultants:
- We don’t oppose formula. While we advocate for the benefits of breastmilk, we also understand that formula is a valid option for mothers who cannot produce enough milk or access donor milk. Our primary concern is ensuring babies are fed, so we’ll happily offer formula if needed while providing guidance on increasing milk supply.
- We understand milk production varies. We are acutely aware of the challenges that can impact milk supply. Some babies struggle to extract milk effectively, and some mothers may have physical conditions that hinder their ability to produce sufficient milk. We aim to support these mothers without judgment.
- We genuinely care about your journey. It may sound cliché, but we truly invest ourselves in our clients’ challenges. I think about the mothers I work with often, fully aware of how vital breastfeeding can be to their experience of motherhood.
- We respect personal choices. Some mothers have deeply personal reasons for not breastfeeding, whether it’s due to health issues, medication conflicts, or simply a preference. We never judge; we are here to support your choices.
- We empower informed decisions. Many mothers stop breastfeeding due to a lack of information. Our goal is to provide tailored advice and resources to help you make informed choices about your breastfeeding journey.
- We’ve seen it all. From breasts to babies, bleeding nipples to messy diapers, we’ve encountered a wide range of experiences. While we’re comfortable in our roles, we respect your comfort levels and preferences.
- We support your breastfeeding goals, whatever they may be. Whether you aim to exclusively breastfeed, mix feeding with formula, or breastfeed for a specific duration, we’re here to support you in achieving your goals. Your choices matter.
Many lactation consultants, including myself, began as mothers facing challenges with breastfeeding. We wanted to learn everything possible to help others navigate their own journeys. Most importantly, we approach each mother with compassion, aiming to assist her in reaching her personal breastfeeding goals.
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In summary, lactation consultants are dedicated professionals who support mothers through their breastfeeding journeys with compassion and expertise. We understand the challenges of breastfeeding and respect the choices mothers make, all while striving to provide the best guidance possible.