What to expect at your first lactation consult
Our first visit will include going over your history and baby’s history, observing a feeding, examining you and your baby, weighing your baby before and after feeding, and creating a detailed plan to address your specific needs. This visit typically takes 1.5 hours, or longer if you have multiples.
How to prepare for your breastfeeding consult:
Please wear something comfortable for breastfeeding.
Please bring a mask for all adults as these are required in the office.
Please feed your baby 2-2.5 hours prior to your appointment so they are hungry but not frantic.
If someone (dad, partner, grandma) is supplementing baby with a bottle, it is helpful to have this person attend with you as we will discuss techniques they will need to employ to support your breastfeeding goals. Please also bring the bottles you are using and any needed supplemental milk with you.
It is helpful if you have a list of the questions and concerns you want addressed so we don’t miss anything.
If you use a particular pillow, please bring it with you.
If you have questions about your pump, please remember to have it available for your appointment and plan for some extra time to address that.
Each consult includes one week of post-consult email support.
I’m available to you for updates, additional questions, or to adjust instructions as needed. I love hearing your successes and welcome your questions. I’m happy to clarify instructions, support you as you work with your baby’s care provider, and give additional suggestions as you and your baby progress.
About Follow Up Consults
Follow up is very important for your ongoing success as you overcome challenges in your breastfeeding relationship. Follow up consults are 60 minutes (longer with multiples). Depending on the issues we are working to resolve, a virtual consult may suit your needs or we may plan an office consult.
Emergency Lactation Consults
Sometimes you need to be seen immediately, even if it’s a weekend, after hours, or when no appointments seem to be available.
Examples of lactation emergencies:
– Becoming engorged to the point where you cannot feed or pump
– Your newborn has not fed for many hours (more than 6) and won’t latch
– Anytime you’re having a crisis that you feel cannot wait
If this happens to you, please call me at 720.394.6995 and leave a detailed message if you don’t reach me right away. I will get back to you as soon as possible. I may be able to see you the same evening, I may give you detailed instructions to get you through the night and set up a time to come see you early the next day, or I may be able to refer you to a trusted colleague who can see you right away.