F A Q' s
What does a lactation consultant do? A lactation consultant provides evidence-based support to help families with breastfeeding, chest feeding or pumping. This includes latch and positioning help, feeding assessments, managing pain, improving milk supply, and supporting parents with personalised feeding plans. Before your consultation, I’ll review your medical, birth, and feeding history to ensure our visit is relaxed and tunes into your needs and goals. During the consultation, I’ll listen to your concerns and goals, and with your consent conduct a thorough assessment of your baby’s feeding and examine your breasts and nipples. I also perform an oral assessment of your baby to examine for any physical issues that may impact breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. As your baby feeds, I’ll explain my observations and provide guidance, suggesting adjustments to positioning and latch as needed. If required, I can weigh your baby using portable scales. A Lactation Consultant keeps detailed, legal medical notes and, with your consent, can update your healthcare team on the feeding plan. I’m also able to provide medical referrals to other healthcare professionals if needed. As an integrative Lactation Consultant, I take into account your personal history, support system, mental health, and family history to create a safe, and achievable plan tailored specifically to you. After our session, I’ll prepare a personalised feeding plan and send it to you via email within 24 hours.
What is an IBCLC Lactation Consultant? An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is a highly trained health professional who specializes in breastfeeding and chest-feeding support. IBCLCs provide evidence-based care and are skilled in managing a wide range of breastfeeding challenges, from common issues to complex situations. They work with sensitivity and respect at all times, supporting both mothers and babies in achieving their feeding goals. IBCLCs practice ethically, follow a strict code of conduct, and work within a clearly defined scope of practice, often collaborating with other health professionals as part of a multidisciplinary maternal and child health team. When needed, they also make appropriate referrals to additional healthcare or community support services. The IBCLC credential represents the highest standard in lactation care worldwide. While anyone may call themselves a lactation consultant, only those who meet the rigorous educational and clinical requirements set by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) and successfully pass the certification exam can use the title IBCLC. To maintain certification, IBCLCs must re-certify every five years and engage in continuous professional development. This ensures their knowledge remains current and their practice aligned with the latest evidence-based standards. IBCLC Values Excellence: Striving for the highest standard of care. Diversity: Valuing and respecting all cultures, languages, and backgrounds. Respect: Guiding every interaction with dignity and compassion. Integrity: Acting with honesty and professionalism. Communication: Prioritizing open, timely, and clear communication. Collaboration: Working together to achieve the best outcomes for families.
Do I need a referral? No referral is required. Although other services are welcome to refer, including your local doctor, obstetrician or paeditrician. You can book directly at any time—during pregnancy, early postpartum, or later in your feeding journey.
When would I need to see a lactation consultant? You can see a lactation consultant anytime you need support with feeding your baby. Common reasons include: During pregnancy for breastfeeding preparation and planning. After birth for help with latching, positioning, and ensuring a comfortable start. If you have concerns about milk supply, nipple pain, mastitis, or engorgement. When your baby struggles to feed due to issues like tongue-tie or slow weight gain. If you’re pumping or returning to work and need guidance on expressing, storing milk, or maintaining supply. For complex situations, such as multiples, premature babies, or medical conditions. In short, if feeding your baby feels challenging, painful, or stressful, a lactation consultant can provide the expert help and reassurance you need.
What happens during an in-home visit? Your consultant will take a full feeding and medical history, observe a feed, assess latch and positioning, check for oral function concerns, weigh your baby, and develop a personalised feeding plan. Plenty of time is allowed for questions and hands-on support.
Do you offer virtual consultations? Yes—online consultations can be very effective for many breastfeeding and pumping concerns. They include the same thorough assessment and tailored plan.
What do I need to prepare for my appointment? Have your baby ready to feed (or close to feeding time), any equipment you use (pump, bottles, shields), and any questions you’d like covered. For virtual consults, good lighting is helpful.
Can you help with pumping or returning to work? Absolutely. We can assist with pump fitting, creating pumping schedules, storing milk safely, and building a plan for returning to work while maintaining milk supply.
Do you support combination feeding (breast + bottle)? Yes. Lactation support is for every family—whether you breastfeed, bottle-feed, pump, or a combination. The goal is to help you feed in a way that works best for you and your baby.
Are partners welcome? Definitely. Partners and support people play a vital role and are always encouraged to join.
Do you provide follow-up support? Yes. Follow-up consultations are available, and many families choose ongoing support via messaging or scheduled check-ins.
Are your services covered by private health insurance? Some health funds reimburse IBCLC services depending on your level of cover. Please check with your provider.
What if breastfeeding is painful? Pain is a signal that something needs adjusting. We assess latch, positioning, oral function, and feeding technique to identify the cause and create a plan for comfortable feeding.
How do you accept payment? An invoice will be sent out via email, this can be complete via Pay ID or Direct Deposit.