New Mama and Baby Consultation-

A lactation consultant is an allied health care professional specifically trained to help mothers nurse their babies. In recent surveys, it has been noted that approximately 75% of new mothers request assistance from a lactation consultant. This means it is more common for a new mom to receive assistance from a lactation consultant than not! While breastfeeding is a natural process it is a new process for a mom and a baby and usually takes some professional advice and a lot of practice before a woman can say, “Breastfeeding is going well.” A common misconception is that breastfeeding is natural, therefore it must be easy. This belief undermines a woman's confidence, making them uncertain of their ability to breastfeed. The truth is that 'being natural' doesn't translate to 'being easy'. Furthermore, asking for help from a professional lactation consultant doesn’t make a woman inadequate, it makes them smart! Don’t hesitate to call the Nursing Nook to schedule an appointment. You will feel much better after one visit with the consultant.

There are many reasons to request a consultation. Follow your instincts; if nursing your infant isn’t going well and you have concerns call the Nursing Nook. A proper consultation lasts between 1- 1 1/2 hrs. The fee is $75 for a home visit or $60 for an office visit at the Nursing Nook. Consultations are usually scheduled the same day or within 24 hours. The fee also includes;

-unlimited telephone support to answer questions and to monitor the progress.

-coordination with the obstetrician and pediatrician via fax and/or phone calls as needed.

1. Baby is not latching well.

2. Baby does not seem satisfied after nursing.

3. Mother concerned about having a low milk supply.

4. Mother is experiencing pain with nursing, has sore nipples, recurrent engorgement or mastitis.

5. Baby is not gaining weight as recommended.

6. Mother is using a nipple shield and would like to toss it.

7. Mother is nursing multiples.

8. Mother will be returning to work and would like assistance with continuing to breastfeed.

Still wondering whether you should schedule a consultation? Let me remind you that breastfeeding provides your baby with the best nutrition and gives your baby antibodies to help keep him healthy and out of the doctor’s office. In addition, breastfeeding will save you thousands of dollars. Additional medical costs are incurred because formula fed infants experience more frequent ear infections, respiratory infections, and gastro-intestinal disturbances and allergies compared to breast-fed infants. On average exclusive formula feeding cost approximately $240/month or $2500 the first year of life.

Yes! You read it right! Adoptive mothers can breastfeed too! If you are adopting a baby call the Nursing Nook to schedule an appointment to discuss your options for breastfeeding. During the consultation we will design a plan that fits your unique situation. We will coordinate with your physician if medications or herbal supplements are needed to stimulate milk production. Remember there's a lot more to breastfeeding than breast milk! Adoptive mothers enjoy preparing to breastfeed their infant. The attachment and bonding process are enhanced while they anxiously await the arrival of their baby. The attachment and bonding process continues to be enhanced by holding their new baby skin-to-skin against their breasts.  Some adoptive mothers are able to provide a full milk supply to their infants while others will need to supplement with formula using a supplemental feeding system. Breastmilk is considered “liquid gold” and even the smallest amount is considered a truly precious gift that only you can give your baby.

Fee- $75 and includes frequent telephone monitoring,  support, and collaboration with your medical provider when necessary.

photo provided by Sara Wiesemann Photography