Why should I consider consulting a lactation consultant?

Lactation consultants are trained professionals who can provide expert guidance and support to help you overcome breastfeeding challenges, ensure proper latching, address milk supply concerns, and promote a positive nursing experience for you and your baby. No matter what your feeding goals are, I will support you in creating a nurturing bond between you and your baby.

When should I reach out to a lactation consultant?

It's beneficial to consult a lactation consultant during pregnancy or as soon as possible after giving birth - ideally within the first few days. Early intervention can help prevent or address potential challenges and establish a strong breastfeeding foundation. However, you can seek our assistance at any stage of your breastfeeding journey, whether you're experiencing difficulties, seeking guidance, or looking for reassurance.

What’s an IBCLC?

IBCLC stands for International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. As the gold standard in lactation consulting, IBCLCs are highly regarded for their comprehensive knowledge and expertise in supporting and guiding parents and infants through the intricacies of breastfeeding. IBCLCs have undergone extensive education and clinical experience in lactation and breastfeeding management, and they have passed a rigorous examination administered by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE). Their certification signifies a commitment to excellence and ensures that they possess the qualifications necessary to provide top-notch care and assistance to families on their breastfeeding journey.

Will insurance cover my visit?

I am in the process of becoming in-network with some insurance providers. Until then, I will provide you with a Superbill after your visit to submit for reimbursement to your insurance company on request. Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), most insurance companies are required to cover lactation services and supplies without a co-pay. I cannot guarantee that your insurance company will do so, but if you are having any issues this link provides some great resources to keep your insurance company accountable.

Can I pay with HSA/FSA?

The payment processor I use accepts HSA/FSA as long as the card was issued by one of the major providers. If this is not the case for your family, please let me know and I can provide you a receipt so that you can submit for HSA/FSA reimbursement.

What happens during a visit?

During our consultation, I will discuss your health history, as well as any breastfeeding history or specific concerns you might have. Before a feed (and with your consent) I may do a physical assessment of the lactating parent, an oral assessment of your baby, or both - as indicated by your symptoms or concerns. I will then typically assess your breastfeeding technique, observe your baby's latch, offer hands-on guidance on positioning and proper latch, address your concerns, provide evidence-based information, and develop a tailored care plan to help you reach your breastfeeding goals. Typically, consultations last 60-90 minutes depending on your specific needs and circumstances. Your written care plan will be provided to you shortly after our session finishes, and also shared with your PCP/pediatrician with your consent.

How can I prepare for an upcoming appointment?

Please check your email to insure that you’ve received a booking confirmation (if this is not in your spam/junk folder either please reach out!). This will detail any specifics that I need before we meet. To make the most of your consultation, it's helpful to write down any questions or concerns you have beforehand, gather any relevant breastfeeding history, and have your breastfeeding supplies (such as breast pump, nipple shields, or nursing pillow) readily available for demonstration or assessment. For a postpartum appointment, please try to keep a rough 24-48hr record of how many wet/dirty diapers, how many feeds/24 hours, as well as how much supplementing (formula or donor milk) you are giving.

The clinic is located at 884 Broadway St in South Portland. There is parking available onsite, however there are 5-6 steps to get into the building. If this will be an issue for you or your family please reach out immediately.

Do you offer virtual or in-home visits?

I can offer both on request. While in-person visits are the gold standard, especially in the immediate postpartum period, I also offer virtual consultations via our HIPAA certified video call software. Virtual consultations can be convenient, accessible, and effective for addressing breastfeeding concerns and receiving expert guidance from the comfort of your own home. Please note that some concerns will not be suitable for a virtual consult due to the need for in-person services such as pre/post feed weights and infant oral assessments. Home visits can be provided on a case-by-case basis, but I mostly work out of my office to insure that I can help more families in a day.

Are lactation consultants only for those who plan to exclusively breastfeed?

No, we support all feeding methods. Whether you plan to exclusively breastfeed, combination feed (breast milk and formula), or exclusively pump, I can provide guidance, help optimize your feeding plan, and address any challenges you may encounter.

Can a lactation consultant assist with breastfeeding after a cesarean birth?

Absolutely! I can offer guidance and techniques to ensure comfortable breastfeeding positions and support the healing process after a cesarean birth. I can also provide strategies to manage pain and optimize breastfeeding success.

Can partners or family members attend the consultation?

Of course! Partners and family members are welcome and encouraged to attend consultations. Involving them in the process can provide additional support and help create a supportive breastfeeding environment at home. For younger children, it can be helpful to have another caregiver watch them for the duration of the appointment so that we can focus on your lactation concerns as close as possible, but if this is not possible that is completely fine. For home visits, I require your furry family members to be secured in a separate area for the duration of our visit.

Do you see twins/multiples?

Absolutely! Please make sure to reach out with a separate request to book for multiples. I will need to create a longer appointment and charge a slightly higher fee as it will be an extended visit. I will provide guidance on positioning, managing simultaneous feeding, and optimizing milk supply to ensure successful breastfeeding for each baby, as well as addressing any of your specific questions and concerns.

Do you support LGBTQIA+ families?

Wholeheartedly. I am committed to providing inclusive and affirming support to all families, including those in the LGBTQIA+ community. I recognize and respect the unique experiences and needs of LGBTQIA+ parents and their infants. I am here to offer expert lactation support, guidance, and resources to ensure that every family feels safe, respected, and supported on their infant feeding journey.

Are you up to date with vaccines/COVID precautions?

Yes. I am fully vaccinated with all routine childhood vaccinations as well as their relevant boosters in adulthood. I stay up to date with yearly flu/covid vaccines as well. On the day of your appointment I will likely be wearing an N95 - especially if it is during cold/flu/RSV seasons. I also run a 3-stage HEPA filtration system in the clinic. My experience as a NICU RN has left me well aware of how fragile infants and their immune systems can be - because of this I ask that if you/your baby/anyone attending the appointment is showing any signs of illness to please let me know in advance. If there is an urgent problem I will do my best to find a way to see you or provide virtual assistance until you are no longer contagious.

What ongoing support is available after the initial consultation?

Every initial visit, whether virtual or in-person, comes with 2 weeks of HIPAA compliant messaging in an online portal to assist in consolidating what we’ve discussed, as well as troubleshooting any solutions we covered. I aim to respond to messages within 24 hrs. For any emerging concerns I often require you to book a follow-up support session, either through phone consultation, virtual, or an in-person visit as needed. I hope to build a relationship with your family where I can provide ongoing guidance, address further concerns, and offer support throughout your breastfeeding journey.