As a lactation consultant, I come from a place of personal experience as a mother. My journey into motherhood began without any clear understanding of what a lactation consultant did or the challenges surrounding breastfeeding. I faced my own struggles—my newborn, Samuel, simply wouldn’t latch, turning away as if I were offering him something unappetizing. It was a heartbreaking experience, leaving me feeling like a failure and disconnected from both my body and my baby.
Breastfeeding was something deeply personal to me, not just a societal expectation. The morning after Samuel’s birth, a team of dedicated doulas came to assist. They handled my squirming baby and gently guided him to my breast with a perfect blend of warmth and expertise. It took weeks for Samuel and me to find our rhythm. When I inquired if they were lactation consultants, they chuckled and said, “No, you need about 2,000 hours of experience for that.”
Their words were prophetic. To become a lactation consultant, I had to gather those 2,000 hours of hands-on experience with breastfeeding mothers, complete rigorous scientific coursework, and specialize in lactation education. It was a challenging path, but one I felt compelled to pursue.
As I navigated this profession, especially with the rise of online support communities for mothers, I recognized that not every woman’s experience with breastfeeding support is as positive as mine. Some mothers have reported feeling pressured to breastfeed, misunderstood, or even shamed for their choices. It’s crucial to acknowledge that, like any field, there are practitioners who may not approach their role with the kindness and empathy it deserves. However, the vast majority of lactation consultants strive to provide supportive, non-judgmental care.
Here are some key points to clarify what lactation consultants really do:
- We Are Not Anti-Formula
While we advocate for the benefits of breastmilk, we recognize that formula can be a perfectly acceptable alternative for mothers who cannot produce enough milk or choose not to breastfeed. Our primary concern is the health and nutrition of the baby. - Understanding Milk Production Issues
We are acutely aware that not every mother can produce sufficient milk. We understand that some babies have difficulties latching, and some mothers have unique physical challenges. Our goal is to support mothers in producing as much milk as they desire. - We Care Deeply
It might sound cliché, but we genuinely care about our clients’ challenges. We are invested in your journey and celebrate your successes as if they were our own. - Respecting Personal Choices
Some mothers have very personal reasons for choosing not to breastfeed, such as health conditions or past trauma. We respect these choices without judgment, allowing mothers to do what’s best for them and their families. - Empowerment Through Information
Many mothers stop breastfeeding due to a lack of information. We aim to equip you with tailored advice and insights so you can make informed decisions about feeding your baby. - Comfort with the Process
We’ve seen it all—breasts, babies, and everything in between. There’s no need for modesty around us, but we also respect your comfort level. - Support for Your Goals
Whether you want to exclusively breastfeed, introduce formula, or breastfeed for a specific duration, we’re here to support your unique goals.
The lactation consultants I know, including those I’ve mentored, often share a common background: they began as mothers who faced their own breastfeeding challenges. Their motivation comes from a desire to help other mothers successfully navigate this journey, armed with knowledge and compassion.
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Summary
Lactation consultants play a crucial role in supporting mothers through their breastfeeding journeys, providing compassionate care and evidence-based information. They respect individual choices and empower mothers to make informed decisions about feeding their babies while striving to meet each mother’s unique goals.