Benefits of a Prenatal IBCLC consult
Meeting with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) prenatally is
a valuable investment in the health and wellbeing of both mother and baby. As a trained
healthcare professional with the highest expertise in lactation, an IBCLC can provide
pregnant women with invaluable information and support that can help make
breastfeeding a positive experience for the mother baby dyad.
Breastfeeding is a complex process that involves a range of physical, emotional, and
social factors. While breastfeeding is natural, it does not always come naturally. It is not
uncommon for new mothers to experience challenges or difficulties while breastfeeding
their babies. Meeting with an IBCLC prenatally can help prepare mothers for these
potential challenges, provide them with the tools and knowledge they need to overcome
them, and offer continued support on their breastfeeding journey.
Here are some reasons why meeting with an IBCLC prenatally is so important:
1. Early intervention: Meeting with an IBCLC before the baby is born provides an
opportunity to identify any potential risk factors early on, before they become
more challenging. IBCLCs can assess a mother's breast anatomy and discuss
any concerns she may have about breastfeeding. This early intervention can help
to prevent problems from arising and can make it easier for a mother to establish
and maintain a good milk supply to feed her infant.
2. Education: Prenatal meetings with an IBCLC provide an opportunity for mothers
to learn about the benefits of breastfeeding, how to prepare for breastfeeding,
how to latch their baby on correctly, how to tell if their baby is getting enough
milk, and to be fitted for their pump properly while gaining knowledge in how to
use it. This prenatal consultation also offers the mother a chance to ask
questions, voice concerns and to get personalized advice and support.
3. Emotional support: Pregnancy can be an emotional time, and preparing for
breastfeeding can be an anxious experience for some mothers. Meeting with an
IBCLC prenatally can provide reassurance and emotional support, which can help
mothers feel more confident and prepared for their breastfeeding journey.
4. Relationship: Meeting with an IBCLC prenatally establishes a trusting relationship
between the mother and the lactation consultant. This can help build rapport
between the two, which can make it easier for the mother to ask for help or
advice if she encounters difficulties or has questions about breastfeeding,
returning to work, starting solids, or weaning later on.
In conclusion, meeting with an IBCLC prenatally is an essential investment in the health
and wellbeing of both mother and baby. It provides an opportunity to identify any
potential breastfeeding challenges early on, to learn about the benefits of breastfeeding,
and to receive personalized, professional advice and support. Ultimately, meeting with
an IBCLC prenatally can help mothers feel more confident and prepared for their
breastfeeding journey, and can make the process a positive experience for both mother
and baby. Check out all of the NH Private Practice IBCLC’s here to book your prenatal
consultation. Many offer in-home or virtual support, and often these visits are covered
100% by insurance.
https://www.nhlactation.com
