Expert Lactation Support for New Mothers in East Tennessee

Welcoming a new baby into the world is an absolute joy, but it can also be overwhelming. Lack of sleep, understanding your newborn's cues, and difficulties with breastfeeding can really make navigating the early postpartum period tough. While breastfeeding is a "natural" process, it can come with its own set of difficulties. Maybe your baby was a bit early. Perhaps you had a challenging labor and delivery. Or your baby may have some body tension that is making breastfeeding painful for you. This is where expert lactation support comes in. Here in East Tennessee, there are numerous resources available to help mothers navigate their breastfeeding journey. This blog post will explore the importance of finding a great IBCLC, along with the ways we can help you (and how to get support quickly).

Why is Lactation Support Important?

Breastfeeding can be valuable for both mothers and babies. Some of ways breast milk and breastfeeding can impact both mother and baby include:

• Nutritional Value: Breast milk is packed with the perfect and essential nutrients that are crucial for a baby's growth and development.

• Bonding: Breastfeeding fosters a unique bond between mother and child.

• A Healthy Start: Breastfeeding is protective against certain illnesses for both mother and baby, including infections and chronic conditions.

  
  

In a perfect world, mothers and babies would have all the time they need to learn each other, bond, and work on breastfeeding. Unfortunately here in the US, lots of moms and babies will need to navigate life circumstances like lack of support, an early return to work or school, lack of access to good nutrition, and more. All of these things can make breastfeeding challenging. And we're here to help. If you want to breastfeed your baby, we want to help you get there.

Types of Lactation Support with East Tennessee Lactation

We offer a variety of lactation support services tailored to meet the needs of new mothers like you. We offer:

1. In-Home Consultations

That's right, we come straight to you! We offer in-home consultations, which can be so beneficial, especially in the first days and weeks postpartum.

2. Office support

We currently have two offices where we can see moms and babies for all sorts of feeding issues. Office visits are great for older babies or when you need to be seen quickly.

3. Telehealth and Over the Phone Consultations

Telehealth and phone follow ups are AMAZING and can get you support quickly when you need it most.

4. Support Groups

We have monthly breastfeeding support groups (and plan to add more soon)!

How do I schedule a visit?

Follow the links above! You can choose the type of visit you need based on your current questions and your insurance provider.

Common Challenges and Solutions

While breastfeeding is a "natural" process, it can come with challenges. Here are some common issues mothers face and potential solutions:

1. Latching Issues

Challenge: Many mothers struggle with getting their baby to latch properly, which can lead to pain and frustration.

Solution: We're super good at teaching you how to latch your baby in a way that makes sense for you (some moms have large breasts. Some have small breasts. Some babies are big. Some are small. Some have tension or issues that make certain positions tough. We can help with ALL of this).

2. Low Milk Supply

Challenge: Some mothers may worry about not producing enough milk for their baby. And some mothers (more than you may think) have low milk supply.

Solution: There's always a reason for low milk supply. And low milk supply is a part of women's health. We'll help you understand if you truly have low milk supply, what you can do about it, and how you can redefine successful breastfeeding for you and your baby.

3. Painful Breastfeeding

Challenge: Discomfort, pain, and damage during breastfeeding can discourage mothers from continuing.

Solution: We have got you covered. Despite what you may have been told, breastfeeding SHOULD NOT be painful. We'll help you find out why, and we'll put a plan in place to fix it.

4. Returning to Work

Challenge: Many mothers face the challenge of balancing breastfeeding with returning to work.

Solution: We love our working and pumping moms! We have all the tools and tricks to make the transition doable (enjoyable, even!)

Conclusion

Breastfeeding can be an extremely rewarding experience, but it can also present challenges. Expert lactation support (we've got you covered!) is essential for new mothers in East Tennessee. We can provide the guidance and resources you need to navigate this journey successfully. Having access to the various types of support available can help you feel empowered and confident in YOUR breastfeeding experience. If you are a new mother here in East Tennessee, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Your breastfeeding journey is important, and you deserve the support you need to thrive.