A Lactation Visit: More Than Just Latching

A lactation visit is about much more than latching. Each session looks at the whole picture of infant feeding: bottle feeding, pumping, and the careful assessment that comes with every visit. We do more than help babies latch. We look at feeding, growth, and development together.

At first glance, a visit is about perfecting the latch. Look closer, and there is a much wider set of parenting and infant needs underneath. We handle everything from simple reassurance to complex feeding problems. Not every visit uncovers a hidden issue, but when it does, we are ready to find it and give you the support and guidance you need.

We bring both humor and deep expertise to every visit. We work through each layer of infant feeding with you, from the first latch to the details of nutrition and beyond. Every lactation visit is more than a session. It is a real step forward for you and your baby.

Here is what you can expect during a lactation visit with us.

1. Unpacking Your Story: Every Superhero Needs an Origin Story 

Before your visit, we don our detective hats, delving into your health histories. We examine everything from your pre-baby days to your little one’s debut. It’s like assembling a jigsaw puzzle where every piece snugly fits!

2. The Long Haul: More Than a Quick Chat

Ever wonder why our sessions rival some epic movie runtimes? We dive deep into every aspect of your feeding journey, addressing every query and concern. Expect to spend a cozy 1-2+ hours with us during your initial visit. Read more on how seeing a private practice IBCLC is NOT the same as seeing a lactation consultant in the hospital.

3. The Assessment: A Comprehensive Once-Over

Meeting face-to-face (or should we say breast-to-face?) means it’s me for a detailed check-up for both you and baby. This includes a meticulous breast exam for you and a head-to-toe assessment for your little one (including an oral assessment). We’re not just looking; we’re discovering the keys to feeding success.

4. Reflexes and Milestones: Charting Baby’s Progress

We observe your baby’s reflexes and milestones, tracking their growth and development. It’s like watching a live-action growth chart, marking each significant stride in your baby’s journey.

5. The Main Event: Feeding Observation

Here’s where the real fun begins! Whether it’s breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, we closely observe and actively seek ways to enhance your experience. Think of it as a feeding choreography where we help you find your perfect dance steps.

6. The Weighted Feed: Measuring Success

Our weighted feeds are a highlight. By weighing your baby before and after feeds, we gauge exactly how much they’re consuming. It’s a precise, informative, and surprisingly fun process!

7. Pumping Performance: Getting the Perfect Fit

Pumping is an art, and we’re here to help you master it. We’ll observe and adjust your pumping process, ensuring you have the perfect fit for your flanges. Think Cinderella, but with breast pump flanges instead of glass slippers!

8. Covering All Angles: The Comprehensive Discussion

We explore a broad range of topics, from physical challenges to your emotional well-being. Our goal is to arm you with the knowledge and skills for every possible feeding situation. From breastfeeding hormones to sleep, nutrition, and beyond, no stone is left unturned.

9. The Brainy Bit: Learning Made Lively

Get ready to be empowered with bite-sized wisdom on nipple care, latching, milk storage, bottle feeding, and formula choices. Our mantra? No gatekeeping of information! We equip you with all the essentials to feel confident about feeding.

10. Crafting Your Plan: Tailored to You

We create a care plan as unique as your baby’s smile. This personalized guide is tailored to fit your family’s specific needs, supporting you whether you’re breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or a mix of both.

11. Doctor Dialogues: Keeping the Team Informed

Post-visit, we don’t just part ways. We ensure your doctor is up to date with our findings and your care plan, keeping communication clear and open.

12. The Afterparty: Continued Support Beyond the Visit

Our support doesn’t end when the visit does. For the next two weeks, feel free to reach out to us via text, email, or our Spruce app for guidance and reassurance. And for ongoing support, our membership program offers continued access to our expertise and care well beyond the initial two weeks. Think of us as your extended support crew, always there to cheer you on and assist in your infant feeding journey.

We are with you for the long haul. From the first latch to starting solids and the milestones that follow, our support stays constant. Whether you are refining breastfeeding, working through bottle-feeding challenges, getting comfortable with pumping, or starting to wean, we are here for each step. We support your child’s feeding well beyond the first year, and we are glad to partner with you through all of it.