What are lactation consultants?

midwife helping breastfeeding mum

by Emily Gilbert |
Updated on

Parenting is rarely straightforward and something that many of us have struggled with is breastfeeding. That's where a lactation consultant can come in handy.

What is a lactation consultant?

A lactation consultant is someone who offers specialised advice and support to mums and their babies throughout the stages of breastfeeding.

Why use a lactation consultant?

Many women can find breastfeeding tricky for various reasons including low milk supply, latching, positioning, pain and more. It's also not uncommon for women to hire a lactation consultant for a second child if they had a previous bad experience with breastfeeding.

A lactation consultant can help by providing one-on-one support that is specific to the mother.

How much will it cost?

As lactation consultants are usually private and set their own costs, prices vary but can start from £50. The final price will also depend on experience, whether you would like a home visit or are happy to do a video call as well as how much time you require and any follow-up appointments.

Lactation consultants near me

If you're interested in finding lactation consultants near you, visit Lactation Consultants of Great Britain and enter your postcode.

Alternatively, NCT has a feeding support line where you can speak to a breastfeeding counsellor.

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