You’ve just brought your precious newborn home from the hospital, and now the real adventure begins—navigating the joys and challenges of breastfeeding.
While breastfeeding is a natural process, it doesn’t always come easily.
That’s where a lactation consultant comes in, offering expert guidance and support to help you and your baby thrive.
But with limited time during your appointment, it’s crucial to come prepared with the right questions.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore 10 important questions to ask your lactation consultant, ensuring you get the most out of your visit and feel confident in your breastfeeding journey.
- How can I tell if my baby is getting enough milk?
- What should I do if breastfeeding is painful?
- How often should I be breastfeeding my newborn?
- What techniques can help improve my baby’s latch?
Important Questions to Ask a Lactation Consultant
So grab a comfortable seat, take a deep breath, and let’s dive into these essential questions that will empower you on your breastfeeding journey.
Trust us, your future self (and your happy, well-fed baby) will thank you.
How can I tell if my baby is getting enough milk?
“I want to make sure my baby is getting enough breast milk. What signs should I look for to know they’re well-fed?” Asking this question is a great way to open the conversation with your lactation consultant.
Knowing whether your little one is taking in enough nourishment is a common concern for new moms. Your consultant will likely explain that the best indicators are wet and dirty diapers. Expect 6 or more wet diapers and at least 3 yellow, seedy stools per day by the time your baby is 5-7 days old.
They may also mention that your baby should seem satisfied and content after feedings, with periods of alertness. If you’re still unsure, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. Understanding these cues will give you peace of mind and help you feel more connected to your baby’s needs.
What should I do if breastfeeding is painful?
“Breastfeeding has been painful for me. Is this normal? And what can I do to make it more comfortable?” Pain during breastfeeding is a red flag that something isn’t quite right, and your lactation consultant will want to help you find a solution.
They’ll likely ask about your baby’s latch and positioning. A shallow latch or improper positioning can cause nipple soreness and damage. Your consultant can observe a feeding and offer guidance on adjusting your hold or your baby’s latch to reduce pain.
They may also check for tongue-tie, a condition that restricts tongue movement and can make breastfeeding challenging. If identified, they can refer you to a specialist for treatment. Remember, breastfeeding shouldn’t be a painful experience. With the right support and techniques, you and your baby can find comfort and joy in this bonding time.
How often should I be breastfeeding my newborn?
“I’m not sure if I’m breastfeeding my newborn often enough. What’s a normal feeding schedule?” Wondering about feeding frequency is normal, and your lactation consultant will be happy to provide guidance.
Newborns have tiny tummies and digest breast milk quickly, so they need to eat often. Your consultant will likely recommend feeding on demand, or whenever your baby shows hunger cues like rooting, sucking motions, or bringing their hands to their mouth.
This usually translates to 8-12 feedings per day or about every 2-3 hours. It’s important to note that some babies may want to cluster feed, having several feedings close together followed by a longer sleep stretch. Trust your baby’s cues and your instincts. As long as your little one is producing enough wet and dirty diapers and gaining weight appropriately, you can feel confident in your feeding schedule.
What techniques can help improve my baby’s latch?
“My baby seems to have trouble latching on properly. Can you show me some techniques to help them latch more easily?” A good latch is key to successful breastfeeding, and your lactation consultant has a wealth of knowledge to share.
They may start by demonstrating different breastfeeding positions, like the cross-cradle or football hold, which can give you more control over your baby’s head and make latching easier. They’ll also show you how to support your breast with a “C” hold, guiding your nipple toward your baby’s nose to encourage a wide, deep latch.
Your consultant may suggest using a nipple shield or breast pump to draw out your nipple and make latching easier if you have flat or inverted nipples. With practice and patience, you and your baby will find your rhythm. Don’t be afraid to ask for hands-on guidance during your visit—your lactation consultant is there to support you every step of the way.
How can I increase my milk supply?
“I’m worried that I’m not producing enough milk. What can I do to boost my supply?” Many new moms have concerns about their milk production, and your lactation consultant will have plenty of tips to share.
The most effective way to increase your supply is to nurse or pump frequently, at least 8-12 times per day. This signals your body to produce more milk. Your consultant may also recommend using a hospital-grade pump, which can be more effective at stimulating milk production than a standard electric or manual pump.
Certain foods and herbs, like oatmeal, fennel, and fenugreek, are thought to promote milk production. Your consultant can offer guidance on incorporating these into your diet. Stay hydrated, get plenty of rest, and try to relax during feedings. Stress can hinder milk let-down. With consistent effort and the right support, most moms can establish a robust milk supply.
Can I continue breastfeeding if I plan to return to work?
“I’ll be going back to work in a few weeks. Is it possible to continue breastfeeding? And how do I manage pumping while I’m away from my baby?” Balancing work and breastfeeding can be challenging, but it’s possible with the right planning and support.
Your lactation consultant can help you develop a pumping schedule that maintains your milk supply and ensures your baby has enough breast milk while you’re apart. They’ll recommend a high-quality, double-electric breast pump and teach you how to use it effectively.
They can also offer tips on storing and transporting breast milk safely. Don’t hesitate to ask about your rights as a breastfeeding employee, like breaks and a private space to pump. With open communication with your employer and a solid plan in place, you can continue providing the best nutrition for your baby while pursuing your career goals.
How can I tell if my baby has a tongue-tie or lip-tie?
“I’ve heard that tongue-ties and lip-ties can interfere with breastfeeding. How can I tell if my baby has one?” Tongue-ties and lip-ties are oral conditions that restrict the movement of the tongue or upper lip, making it difficult for babies to latch properly and transfer milk effectively.
Your lactation consultant can perform a thorough oral assessment to check for these ties. They’ll look for signs like a heart-shaped tongue tip, inability to extend the tongue past the gum line, or a tight upper lip that doesn’t flange outward when crying.
If a tie is suspected, they may refer you to a pediatric dentist or ENT for a definitive diagnosis and treatment. Treating a tongue-tie or lip-tie can significantly improve breastfeeding comfort and efficiency. Don’t worry—your lactation consultant will guide you through the process and provide support every step of the way.
What should I do if my baby falls asleep while breastfeeding?
“My baby often falls asleep at the breast before finishing a full feeding. Should I wake them up? How can I ensure they’re getting enough milk?” Sleepy babies are a common breastfeeding challenge, and your lactation consultant will have strategies to help.
They may suggest trying to rouse your baby by talking to them, gently rubbing their feet or back, or switching breasts when they start to doze. This encourages them to take in a full feeding and can help boost your milk supply.
Your consultant may also recommend breast compression, a technique where you gently squeeze your breast to increase flow and encourage your baby to keep swallowing. As long as your baby is gaining weight well and producing enough wet and dirty diapers, the occasional sleepy feeding isn’t a major concern. With a little persistence and some creative techniques, you can help your drowsy little one get the nourishment they need.
How long should I breastfeed on each side?
“I’m not sure how long I should let my baby nurse on each breast. Is there a recommended time limit?” Wondering about the ideal feeding duration is a common question, and your lactation consultant will be happy to offer guidance.
In general, it’s best to let your baby nurse on the first breast until they come off on their own, ensuring they get the rich hindmilk that comes toward the end of a feeding. This can take anywhere from 10-20 minutes or more. Then, offer the second breast if your baby seems interested.
Your consultant may explain that some babies are more efficient feeders and may only need 5-10 minutes on each side, while others may take longer. The key is to watch for signs that your baby is getting enough milk, like hearing swallows, seeing their jaw move rhythmically, and monitoring their diaper output. Trust your baby’s cues and your instincts, and don’t be afraid to ask for guidance if you’re unsure.
When should I start pumping and storing breast milk?
“I’d like to start building a stash of breast milk in my freezer. When is the best time to start pumping and storing milk?” Planning for the future is smart, and your lactation consultant can help you develop a pumping strategy.
They’ll likely recommend waiting until your milk supply is well-established and breastfeeding is going smoothly before introducing a pump, usually around 3-4 weeks postpartum. This gives your body time to adjust to your baby’s needs and reduces the risk of oversupply or engorgement.
When you’re ready to start pumping, your consultant can teach you how to use your pump effectively and store milk safely. They may suggest pumping once a day, perhaps in the morning when the milk supply tends to be highest, and gradually increasing as needed.
Labeling your milk with the date and amount and storing it in the back of the freezer can help you build a well-organized stash. With a little planning and some expert guidance, you’ll be well on your way to meeting your pumping goals.
Conclusion
Breastfeeding is a learning curve for both you and your baby, but with the right support and information, you can navigate this journey with confidence.
Asking your lactation consultant these 10 important questions will give you the tools and knowledge you need to overcome challenges, make informed decisions, and enjoy the many benefits of breastfeeding.
Remember, every breastfeeding experience is unique, and what works for one mom and baby may not work for another.
Trust your instincts, be patient with yourself and your little one, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help when you need it.
With time and practice, you’ll find your rhythm and cherish the special bond that breastfeeding brings.
Happy nursing!