We often hear the word “Lactation Consultant” but what do they really do and do you really need them? Lactation consultants are professional specialists who help teach breastfeeding moms how to properly breastfeed their baby. Usually, when a breastfeeding mom is having a hard time with her baby latching on properly or is experiencing pain while breastfeeding, a lactation consultant is able to help with such problems. They sure do come in handy as they help moms reach their breastfeeding goals and often times teach them how to properly store their milk, but the real question remains…do you really need them?

The answer is a big fat YES! Every mama who has consulted with a lactation practitioner have said it was well worth the money. Lactation consultants can be found in hospitals or can be privately requested. They can teach you anything and everything you need to know about breastfeeding. Whether it’s mouth care, getting you acclimated with a pumping schedule in order to maximize your milk production, they also school you on skin contact and how it helps with bonding and attachment between mother and baby.

Be sure to get a board certified Lactation Consultant to ensure that they have received a formal and clinical education in breastfeeding. This way, you’ll know you are getting top notch care for you and your baby.

Photo Cred: {boston.com} Lactation consultant Donna Norris with Nanci Gilmore and her baby, Noelle, at Newton-Wellesley Hospital. (Suzanne Kreiter/Globe Staff)