In-Home Consultations for Breastfeeding Help

Many breastfeeding mothers find themselves in need of breastfeeding help and would benefit from the lactation support services of a board certified lactation consultant.  I am an evidence-based professional member of your healthcare team with a specialty in normal breastfeeding and high-risk lactation; it is within my scope of practice to support you during any phase of your breastfeeding career.  I believe that breastfeeding help is most effective when provided in the familiar surroundings of the family home; I offer in-home breastfeeding help to families in Spokane, Liberty Lake, Post Falls, Coeur d’Alene and the surrounding areas.

I prefer to practice in such a way as to support you throughout your entire breastfeeding relationship, not just in the immediate post-partum period when you might find yourself in immediate need of breastfeeding help.  Prenatally, we will meet in your home in the greater Spokane and Coeur d’Alene area to work together to prepare for breastfeeding: we’ll discuss the role of birth on breastfeeding outcomes and how birth can help support breastfeeding.  We’ll assess any barriers or booby traps that may not support your breastfeeding relationship and develop a plan for accommodating them.  We will also discuss the biological needs surrounding breastfeeding (for both you and your baby) and how to prepare for those needs.

After the birth of your baby, I will provide immediate postpartum help to get breastfeeding started at the location of your choice in the greater Spokane/Coeur d’Alene area, whether you need breastfeeding help in your home, hospital, or elsewhere.  Should difficulties arise, I will work with you to determine the root of your breastfeeding difficulties, while protecting your milk supply and nourishing your baby.

I am available throughout your breastfeeding relationship and can help with the introduction of solids to ensure a nourishing and simple transition to solid foods, planning for returning to work school, support for tandem nursing, support for nursing beyond the toddler stage, help with weaning management, etc.

For an explanation of lactation professionals and why you should choose a board certified lactation consultant for breastfeeding help click here.

During our consultation, you can expect a full breastfeeding assessment, including evaluation the following:

Mother

• Full health, lifestyle, pregnancy, and birth history as it pertains to lactation.
• Breast and nipple examination to assess structure and functionality, including glandular abnormalities, breast lumps, infections, engorgement, etc.
• Identification of breast or nipple conditions that might affect breastfeeding, such as flat or inverted nipples, cracked nipples, blisters, scar tissue from piercings or surgery, etc.
• Milk assessment relative to your stage of lactation (colostrum, transitional milk, and mature milk), including volume assessment (as needed) and transfer to your baby.

Infant

• A complete oral examination to assess development, anatomy, and suckling ability.
• Stool/bowel movement assessment.
• Feeding history and assessment.

Feeding

• A complete feeding assessment, including the evaluation and discussion of supplements.
• Positioning counseling and guidance.

Follow Up

• I will leave you with a comprehensive care plan and supporting documentation.
• You will receive one phone-call follow up a day or two after your appointment.  During this call, we will discuss how your care plan is working for you and provide minor alterations to the plan.
• Documentation will be sent to your healthcare provider as needed.
• You will receive a Lactation Visit Receipt (LVR) and supporting documents to file with your health insurance company for reimbursement.

When to Call for Help

Below are some common breastfeeding concerns of new and experienced mothers that may require an in-home lactation consultation.  This is not an exhaustive list; please feel free to call with ANY questions or concerns you may have.

• Breastfeeding is painful
• Nipples are damaged
• Your breasts are sore or ache, especially when accompanied by fever
• You need help with positioning and latch
• You have trouble waking your baby to nurse
• Your newborn is not stooling or wetting diapers
• Your newborn is jaundiced (yellow in color)
• Breastfeeding multiples
• Breastfeeding a premature baby or baby with special needs
• You or your baby have medical conditions and have been told you need to wean
• Inducing lactation for adoption or relocating
• You need to develop a plan for breastfeeding and returning to work or school

Call to schedule your private in-home lactation consultation
for breastfeeding support today.
(509) 228-8710