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Learn what a lactation specialist is, and how they can help you get the proper start to feeding your new baby.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes breastfeeding as the superior form of infant feeding. In developed and developing nations alike, it is promoted in health care facilities, lauding its benefits. It is not unwarranted as well. There is a substantial amount of research that proves the many health advantages for both the mother and baby (Kent, et. al, 2016). As such, exclusive breastfeeding is recommended until the baby is at least six months of age. In fact, efforts have been made through the joint efforts of UNICEF and WHO to create health care environments where breastfeeding is the norm, via the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative, which was launched in 1991. Because of the widespread promotion and introduction of breast milk substitutes, this program aims to make breastfeeding the infant feeding method of choice through antenatal counseling and education, as well as breastfeeding support, to prevent and resolve breastfeeding difficulties (Willumsen, 2013). Specialized health professionals such as lactation specialists play a huge role in the successful implementation of this program.
One of the main benefits of breastfeeding that is constantly being promoted is its convenience. You need not purchase anything, hence, it is more economical than buying and preparing formulas. Another is the natural properties that not only decrease the incidence of allergies, it gives the baby a preliminary layer of protection via the antibodies they need to protect them from infectious diseases. Indeed, it is so innate, babies are born with reflexes (i.e. rooting and sucking reflex) that allow them to latch on instinctively. It should be easy, right?
But what happens when the mother encounters problems on something that is supposed to be uncomplicated?
Granted, breastfeeding should, and usually does come naturally. After all, what could be more basic than an infant getting nourishment from their mother? It could be distressing, therefore, when a mother attempts to breastfeed her baby, only to find out it is not happening as seamlessly as she is expecting it to be. To be fair, it is one of those things that look easier than it actually is. Furthermore, common problems encountered in breastfeeding (i.e. latching, milk supply, chapped nipples, and mastitis) are not always taken into consideration.
In order to encourage breastfeeding, its benefits are exalted, and the common problems do not get as much attention lest the mothers become discouraged.
Should you choose to continue this route (although, any form of infant feeding is valid as long as it is safe and age-appropriate!), a lactation specialist will be able to assist you with whatever problems you might have.
The job of a lactation specialist (also referred to as a lactation consultant), is pretty self-explanatory. However, it is also important to note the distinction between lactation specialists and breastfeeding counselors in order for you to determine which service you require. A breastfeeding counselor’s expertise leans towards psychological support for the nursing mother. They are usually mothers themselves and have experience with breastfeeding. They may organize support groups or talk to the mother one-on-one, but they are not qualified to dispense medical advice. Lactation specialists, on the other hand, are essentially medical professionals that provide breastfeeding aid and guidance. This subspecialty requires certification (obtained via training) in order to become qualified. Lactation specialists are usually women, and, more often than not, maternal and child care nurses, which, when you think about it, is actually apt, considering the word “nurse” comes from the Latin word “nutrix”, which often refers to a “wet nurse” or a woman who breastfed the babies of others.
That aside, think of the lactation specialist as an indirect wet nurse (a dry nurse?). They usually work in hospitals or maternal and child health services, where they will visit new mothers that decide to breastfeed to assess their knowledge and expectations about breastfeeding. On the other hand, depending on facility policy, they are referred to mothers that have been identified as having breastfeeding problems upon check-up. The lactation specialist also has a more holistic approach in breastfeeding guidance, incorporating both physiological and psychological concepts.
What to Expect:
Upon the initial interview and history taking, the lactation specialist will perform a breast exam to assess for lactation risk factors. They will then concurrently discuss with you the anatomy of the lactating breast, and from that point, address the issues identified, its possible causes, and what you can do to resolve them. Additionally, they may also educate you on other common problems that may occur, so that in case it does happen, you are equipped with the knowledge and will more or less know how to deal with them.
Generally, a lactation specialist should be able to help with the most common problems identified in breastfeeding, such as:
Insufficient milk supply - especially if breastfeeding multiples
The baby having trouble achieving ideal weight (for post-natal consults)
The baby refuses to breastfeed
Latching problems
The most efficient position for breastfeeding for mother and baby - especially if the mother gave birth via cesarean section
Lack of motivation and understanding of breastfeeding
Is a lactation specialist really necessary?
As previously mentioned, the necessity for such a service largely depends on your needs, thus there can be no definite answer to this. However, studies have shown that working with a lactation specialist fosters more effective breastfeeding techniques, provided they are able to understand and manage your expectations to create an intervention plan. Success largely depends on your willingness to commit to the plan, however. Aside from the lactation specialist should also be made aware of any emotional and physical barriers that play a factor in your motivation and discipline to commit to it. They are generally trained to address these issues at a base level, depending on what field of expertise they are in. They may also refer you to another specialist, such as a mental health professional, if they find that more comprehensive and multidisciplinary treatment is needed.
Motherhood does not necessarily need to be tackled alone. A lactation specialist is just one of the many support systems available to help. Breastfeeding is already physically and emotionally taxing enough as it is, so anything to lighten the load will make for happier, and consequently, healthier, mothers and babies.
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