Lactation consulting is crucial for new parents, helping not only with breastfeeding, but also with navigating the change a newborn brings into their lives.
Cheshire Medical Center has long offered an in-person class called Understanding Breastfeeding, but in 2020—amid the COVID-19 pandemic when in-person classes were on hold—they started offering lactation visits with all newborns and at any time after during a pediatric provider visit.
The program “has grown so much it is the bulk of what I now do here in Pediatrics,” said Michelle Majewski, RN, IBCLC, pediatric nurse and lactation consultant at Cheshire.
In honor of National Breastfeeding Month, we sat down with Majewski to get insight on lactation consulting and how patients can benefit from it.
Why is lactation consulting important?
Lactation consultant programs are important because they equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to breastfeed properly, as well as providing emotional support for new parents.
There are so many changes in the first few hours and days after childbirth for the birth parent, supporting partner and the baby, Majewski said. Even if the parent already has children, the new child still brings changes.
“Having frequent check-ins, either in person or on the phone, can be helpful for reminders, trouble shooting a concern or reassuring the stage they are in is normal,” she said.
How long can new parents utilize Cheshire’s lactation program?
From the hospital stay, after discharge and throughout breastfeeding, “there is so much lactation support here at Cheshire,” Majewski said.
“When I meet with new moms, I always stress if they have a concern over the weekends to not wait until Monday,” she said. “Call and speak with a lactation consultant over the weekend for support.”
To access the program, established patients can call 603-354-5480.
What can I expect from a lactation consultant?
You can expect the following from your lactation consult:
- Review the birth parent’s health history and their baby’s health record
- Observe feeding and provide coaching
- Give tips on breastfeeding positions and how to be more comfortable
- Help with breast pump and ensuring it fits properly
- Answer questions and/or troubleshoot issues
Lactation consultations work best in person, but when needed due to illness, virtual visits are available.
Do I have to breastfeed my baby?
No. While our human bodies are designed to feed babies at the breast, there can be complications that don’t make it feasible or people can prefer to bottle feed or use formula. All of these options, Majewski said, are safe ways to provide babies with the nutrition they need.
For more information on lactation programs and other supports at Cheshire, click here.