Tips for Finding a Lactation Consultant
Want to breastfeed but having some difficulties getting started?
Breastfeeding can be very challenging for new mums. Having the love and support of your partner, family and friends to breastfeed truly makes all the difference!
In addition to surrounding yourself with a great support network (family, friends and community groups) it’s also important for you to take time to care for yourself. Drink plenty of water, eat nourishing foods and get good rest. This will all help your body produce the milk your baby needs and help you feel rested and more confident in your breastfeeding goals. If you’re having trouble breastfeeding, there’s some wonderful help out there! Don’t give up on your dream to breastfeed your baby and parent your way!
Some new mums do experience higher than normal nipple pain, blisters and even nipple bleeding. This can be very normal in the first few weeks of breastfeeding… If you have breastfeeding concerns I recommend seeking advice from your Postpartum Doula (or if you don’t have one) Contacting ABA — If you still feel you need further support I suggest reaching out to a good lactation consultant.
Finding the right Lactation Consultant
A lactation consultant can give you the extra support and help you need to breastfeed successfully! But you don’t want any old lactation consultant. You want one that you can connect with, who listens to you, who knows her stuff and can help you get through your struggles!
Lactation Consultants of Australia and New Zealand (LCANZ)
An amazing online resource I ran across recently was LCANZ! They have compiled a list of qualified lactation consultants in Australia and New Zealand for new mums searchable by postcode!
Facebook Groups
Another great resource for finding a lactation consultant or breastfeeding support is local Facebook groups. Joining these groups, you will get to connect with other mums in the area and ask about their experiences or recommendations with lactation consultants.
There are lots of local mum and bubs Facebook groups you can join. Some focus on particular topics such as breastfeeding and some mum groups are more breastfeeding-friendly than others.
Here are a few of my favourite breastfeeding groups:
Breastfeeding Younger Babies and Beyond
Tongue or lip ties
If you feel that your baby might have tongue or lip tie issues when breastfeeding it is best to seek out a lactation consultant who deals with tie issues on a daily basis. If the consultant does not specialise in this area, they may give you the wrong advice about ties and cause you and your baby a lot of pain and heartache. It’s always better to seek out someone experienced in the issue whenever possible!
You can also receive support for tie issues through the Tie Support Australia Facebook group.
Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA)
ABA is another great resource for new mums who want to breastfeed. Their website is a wealth information and support. They also offer education courses and a 24/7 breastfeeding hotline where you can speak with a qualified counsellor.
ABA Breastfeeding Hotline: 1800 686 268
The Motherhood Circle
As always, The Motherhood Circle is here to support and encourage you in your breastfeeding journey. I would love for you to contact me, join The Motherhood Circle Community Facebook group or have you pop into one of our free monthly postpartum workshops in Queensland!
During our free expectant couples workshop, I (Ashley) share my top tips for establishing and keeping a healthy milk supply while breastfeeding, as well as discuss:
* The reasons why new mothers feel exhausted and overwhelmed…and what you can do about it
* Simple, practical ways to get the support, confidence, health & love all new mums need
* Mother’s intuition & how it can help you be the best mum you can be!
REGISTER NOW FOR THIS FREE WORKSHOP!
You’ve Got This Mama
Some mums choose not to breastfeed and that’s totally okay! But for mums who really want to breastfeed, I hope that you will follow your heart and continue your beautiful journey. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help when you need it—you’re not a failure. You’re lovely. You’re fierce. And you’ve got this mama!
