Prenatal Lactation Support
You have the nursery ready. You’ve read the parenting books. You even took that birthing class from the hospital. Now, it’s time for you to prepare yourself for breastfeeding. Many parents think this is something that is going to come naturally, so they tend to wait until postpartum to tackle it. The problem is, breastfeeding is nearly never a one-size-fits-all. Your baby is sleepy due to birth, you aren’t sure what to do, and you haven’t even opened your pump yet! This is where our team comes in. Not only have we spent thousands of collective hours with lactating parents, helping them feed their babies; we have personally been through it as well! During a prenatal education consultation, we discuss your health history, your specific goals, and any previous experience and how we can do things differently this time around. We make a sustainable plan so that you have appropriate expectations and can stress less when it comes to breastfeeding. Ready to schedule your prenatal education consultation?
Benefits of Starting Lactation Support Early
Establishing a solid foundation for breastfeeding success helps you understand proper latching techniques before the baby arrives and about the signs of a good latch and how to achieve it.
Reducing the likelihood of common breastfeeding issues helps you identify and address potential challenges such as nipple pain, engorgement, or low milk supply early on to avoid or manage breastfeeding complications.
Enhancing the mother-baby bond from the start prepares you for the initial breastfeeding experience right after birth, promoting skin-to-skin contact and its benefits for both mother and baby.
Boosting confidence and reducing anxiety helps you feel more prepared and less anxious about breastfeeding, empowering mothers with knowledge and practical skills to handle different breastfeeding situations.
Personalized advice tailored to individual needs based on your unique health history, pregnancy, and birth plan helps create a breastfeeding plan that aligns with your personal goals and circumstances.
Improving milk supply and breastfeeding efficiency so you can begin techniques early to stimulate milk production and understand how to maintain and increase milk supply as needed.
Building a support system before the baby arrives to establish a relationship with a lactation consultant who can continue to support you postpartum, and connect with other expectant mothers who share similar breastfeeding goals.
Reducing the risk of early weaning addresses common reasons before they arise and encourages a long-term breastfeeding relationship through early preparation and support.
What is Prenatal Lactation Support?
Prenatal lactation support is a proactive service designed to prepare expectant mothers for breastfeeding before their baby arrives. It includes educational resources, personalized consultations, and guidance on essential skills like proper latching, positioning, and maintaining milk supply. Unlike postpartum support, which addresses challenges after birth, prenatal lactation support focuses on prevention and preparation, equipping mothers with the knowledge and confidence needed to anticipate and manage potential issues. This early support fosters a smoother breastfeeding experience, strengthens the mother-baby bond, and ensures a more confident transition into motherhood.
Why Prenatal Lactation Support is Essential
Prenatal lactation support is essential for both physical and emotional preparation for breastfeeding, providing expectant mothers with the tools and knowledge they need before their baby arrives. By understanding common breastfeeding challenges and learning how to address them early, mothers can avoid potential difficulties and feel more confident in their ability to breastfeed successfully. Education plays a crucial role in this process, boosting confidence by equipping mothers with practical skills and strategies, ultimately increasing the likelihood of a positive and successful breastfeeding experience.
Success Stories and Testimonials
“We wouldn’t be where we are without her help and encouragement! If I could give new moms just one piece of advice, it would be to schedule with an IBCLC right away. Breastfeeding does not come naturally, and having the support and knowledge of someone who specializes in feeding will save you so much stress. Very thankful to Ashlee, Tucker, and Amber for all their help.”
“Ashlee is a lifesaver! I met with her while I was pregnant and we made a plan that eased my anxiety. Then after baby was born she helped so much when unexpected issues arose. She responded to all my crazy texts and at each appointment was caring and understanding. The best part is that when coming up with plans, she asks what will work for you and your life. I appreciate her so much.”
“We are so grateful for Ashlee’s help and support through our breastfeeding journey so far! Tongue and lip tie releases, baby gas, and latch issues are no joke, but having a great team on your side makes a world of difference. We couldn’t have made it without her!”
“We made it 6 months!! Next goal is a year <3”
“All my friends who are pregnant/just had a baby. If you need support, Ashlee is THE ABSOLUTE BEST. I don’t know what we would have done without her. After having my second baby I thought we would have no problems because I had done this before, but it just proves that every baby is different.”
“Ashlee was very knowledgeable. We dealt with latch issues and tried different positions. She has so many wonderful recommendations for us and spent quality one on one time working to resolve our issues. She was always checking in on us to make sure we were doing okay and was supportive with her help. Without her help, I’m not sure our journey would have continued, but now 10 months have passed and we are still going strong. I highly recommend Ashlee and her team.”
“New moms: do yourself a favor and find yourself a lactation consultant to help you troubleshoot all things nursing and milk supply. They can be so helpful. Even better, find one you enjoy around and that will make your home visits when needed or preferred.”
“I learned from my first child not to wait – see a lactation consultant. With my second child, Ashlee was recommended. I love working with her. I felt comfortable around her and enjoyed talking to her. I saw her both in office and in my home. She helped me with a few different issues, including finding a bottle that my baby would take when I returned to work from maternity leave. The process of scheduling and communicating was also easy which I appreciated. I highly recommend her!”
“Ashlee saved my breastfeeding journey! Just when I didn’t think it was “for me” she encouraged me and showed me all of the necessary tips and tricks. Forever thankful for her and Tucker.”
“She continued to be a great support and resource after I decided to exclusively pump, which isn’t the case with all lactation consultants. I am so grateful that I found Ashlee!”
Lactation Support at Kentucky Breastfeeding Center
Low Supply:
If you’re concerned about low milk supply, our lactation consultants provide personalized strategies to help boost production and ensure your baby is getting enough nourishment. We assess your individual situation and offer practical solutions to support your breastfeeding goals.
Tongue Tie:
Tongue tie can make breastfeeding challenging, but our experts are here to help you navigate this before it occurs with tailored advice and support. We work with you to help make sure your baby’s latch is stable from the beginning to facilitate successful breastfeeding.
Bottle Refusal:
If your baby ends up refusing the bottle, our team can guide you through techniques to encourage bottle feeding while maintaining your breastfeeding relationship. We offer customized plans to help transition between breast and bottle smoothly.
Breast Refusal:
Breast refusal can be distressing, but our consultants will help you identify the underlying causes and provide practical steps to prevent this from happening. We support you with strategies to build a positive breastfeeding experience.
Pumping:
Whether you plan to pump occasionally or exclusively, our lactation consultants can assist you in selecting the right pump and establishing an effective pumping routine. We offer guidance on maintaining milk supply and storing breast milk safely.
Craniosacral Therapy:
Craniosacral therapy is a gentle technique offered at our center to help babies with breastfeeding challenges related to tension or misalignment. This therapy supports overall well-being and can improve breastfeeding outcomes by addressing physical discomforts.
Lactation Support at Kentucky Breastfeeding Center
Low Supply:
If you’re concerned about low milk supply, our lactation consultants provide personalized strategies to help boost production and ensure your baby is getting enough nourishment. We assess your individual situation and offer practical solutions to support your breastfeeding goals.
Tongue Tie:
Tongue tie can make breastfeeding challenging, but our experts are here to help you navigate this before it occurs with tailored advice and support. We work with you to help make sure your baby’s latch is stable from the beginning to facilitate successful breastfeeding.
Bottle Refusal:
If your baby ends up refusing the bottle, our team can guide you through techniques to encourage bottle feeding while maintaining your breastfeeding relationship. We offer customized plans to help transition between breast and bottle smoothly.
Breast Refusal:
Breast refusal can be distressing, but our consultants will help you identify the underlying causes and provide practical steps to prevent this from happening. We support you with strategies to build a positive breastfeeding experience.
Pumping:
Whether you plan to pump occasionally or exclusively, our lactation consultants can assist you in selecting the right pump and establishing an effective pumping routine. We offer guidance on maintaining milk supply and storing breast milk safely.
Craniosacral Therapy:
Craniosacral therapy is a gentle technique offered at our center to help babies with breastfeeding challenges related to tension or misalignment. This therapy supports overall well-being and can improve breastfeeding outcomes by addressing physical discomforts.
Comprehensive Professional Lactation Support for Every Step of Your Journey
Seeking professional support for breastfeeding is crucial to ensuring a positive and successful experience for both mother and baby. At Kentucky Breastfeeding Center, our lactation consultants offer a range of services tailored to meet your individual needs. We provide one-on-one consultations where you can receive personalized guidance and support, whether you’re dealing with specific challenges or simply want to ensure you’re on the right track. For added convenience, we also offer virtual support, allowing you to access expert advice from the comfort of your home. Additionally, our breastfeeding classes and workshops provide valuable education and hands-on practice, equipping you with the skills and confidence needed for your breastfeeding journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is prenatal lactation support, and why is it important?
Prenatal lactation support involves preparing for breastfeeding during pregnancy through education, consultations, and planning. It is important because it helps expectant mothers understand the basics of breastfeeding, recognize potential challenges, and build confidence for a successful breastfeeding journey.
When should I start prenatal lactation support?
It’s ideal to start prenatal lactation support during the second or third trimester. This timing allows enough time to learn and practice techniques while still being close enough to the birth to retain the information and skills for when the baby arrives.
What can I expect during a prenatal lactation consultation?
During a prenatal lactation consultation, you will meet with a certified lactation consultant who will discuss your breastfeeding goals, provide education on latching, positioning, and milk supply, and help you create a personalized breastfeeding plan. The session may also address any specific concerns or questions you have.
Can prenatal lactation support help if I plan to use a breast pump?
Yes, prenatal lactation support can be very beneficial if you plan to use a breast pump. A lactation consultant can guide you on how to choose the right pump, how to use it effectively, and how to establish and maintain milk supply when pumping. We also offer flange fitting.
What if I experience breastfeeding challenges after my baby is born?
If you experience challenges after your baby is born, the prenatal lactation support you’ve received will have provided you with foundational knowledge and strategies. Additionally, the relationship you’ve built with your lactation consultant means you can easily reach out for continued support and guidance postpartum.
Is prenatal lactation support covered by insurance?
Coverage for prenatal lactation support varies by insurance provider. It’s best to check with your insurance company to see if lactation consultations are included in your plan. Kentucky Breastfeeding Center can also provide guidance on how to navigate insurance claims for these services.
Empowering Your Breastfeeding Journey with Unwavering Support
At Kentucky Breastfeeding Center, we are dedicated to supporting and guiding you through every step of your breastfeeding journey, offering the care and expertise you need to feel confident and empowered as a mother. Our compassionate team is here to provide personalized assistance, whether you’re facing challenges or simply seeking reassurance. We encourage you to reach out and take advantage of the support available to you—schedule a consultation today to get started. Our office is conveniently located and open during flexible hours to accommodate your needs. For more information or to book an appointment, please visit our contact page, fill out the form, or give us a call at the provided phone number. We’re here to help you every step of the way.