When to Reach Out to a Lactation Consultant

Breastfeeding is often described as natural — but that doesn’t mean it’s always easy. In fact, many parents find that the first few days or weeks can feel overwhelming, painful, or confusing. That’s where a lactation consultant comes in.

You don’t need to wait until things are “bad” to ask for help. Lactation support can prevent problems before they start — and make your feeding journey more comfortable, confident, and sustainable from the beginning¹.

🍼 What Is a Lactation Consultant?

An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is a healthcare professional with advanced training in human lactation and infant feeding. IBCLCs are qualified to assess latch, milk supply, infant weight gain, bottle feeding, pumping, breastfeeding after surgery, oral anatomy concerns, and much more².

While other professionals may offer general breastfeeding advice, an IBCLC provides clinical care — and can be a key part of your perinatal healthcare team.

⏱ When Should You Reach Out?

There’s no “wrong” time to work with a lactation consultant — but here are some signs that support could be especially helpful:

Before Baby Arrives:

• You had a difficult breastfeeding experience in the past

• You’ve had breast surgery or chest trauma

• You’re expecting a baby who may need extra support (preterm, multiples, cleft, etc.)

• You want to feel more prepared and confident before delivery

Prenatal lactation consults have been shown to improve breastfeeding initiation and duration rates — especially among first-time parents and those with previous challenges³.

After Birth:

• Your baby isn’t latching well or feeds are painful

• You’re unsure if your baby is getting enough milk

• Your nipples are cracked, bleeding, or misshapen after nursing

• Feedings take over an hour or baby seems hungry constantly

• You have concerns about your milk supply (too low or too much)

• Your baby is losing weight, slow to gain, or has decreased diaper output

• You’re dealing with engorgement, clogged ducts, or mastitis

• You’re exclusively pumping or need help with pump settings/schedules

• You want to introduce bottles or go back to work

• You’re transitioning from formula to breastfeeding — or vice versa

• You’re planning to wean gently and want to do it safely

“After the baby arrives, early lactation support from trained professionals significantly improves breastfeeding outcomes — including longer duration, greater exclusivity, and increased maternal confidence⁵.”

💬 Don’t Wait for a Crisis

Many parents assume they should “just tough it out” or wait for a doctor to refer them. But you don’t need a referral to work with a lactation consultant. And the earlier you reach out, the easier it can be to resolve common issues before they spiral⁴.

Even a single session can:

• Improve latch comfort

• Create a customized feeding plan

• Help you feel heard and empowered

• Offer emotional support during an often vulnerable time

  
  

💜 You Deserve Support

Feeding your baby isn’t just about ounces and output — it’s about feeling confident, connected, and cared for. Whether you’re breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or doing a mix, you deserve support that’s judgment-free and tailored to you.

If you’re ever wondering, “Is this normal?”, or you just want someone to walk alongside you — that’s exactly what a lactation consultant is here for.

About Me

Hi, I’m Jayme Lindsey — a Registered Nurse, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), and postpartum doula. I’ve spent years supporting families through the early days of parenthood, and I’m passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based lactation care. Through my practice, Lindsey Lactation LLC, I offer in-home support in the Greater Hartford, CT area and virtual visits nationwide. My goal is to help you feel informed, empowered, and supported every step of the way. You can learn more about my services here, or book a visit through The Lactation Network (TLN) — many families qualify for fully covered consults through insurance.

The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, pediatrician, or a qualified lactation consultant with any questions you may have regarding your health or the health of your baby. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read here.

📚 References

1. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The Surgeon General’s Call to Action to Support Breastfeeding.2011. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK52682/

2. International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners. IBCLC Scope of Practice. 2021. https://iblce.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Scope-of-Practice-2021.pdf

3. Su LL, Chong YS, Chan YH, et al. Antenatal education and postnatal support strategies for improving rates of exclusive breastfeeding: randomized controlled trial. BMJ. 2007;335(7620):596. doi:10.1136/bmj.39279.656343.55

4. McFadden A, Gavine A, Renfrew MJ, et al. Support for healthy breastfeeding mothers with healthy term babies. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2017;2(2):CD001141. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD001141.pub5

5. Spaeth A, Zemp E, Merten S. J Hum Lact. 2018;34(3):544–556. doi:10.1177/0890334418767440