Lactation Support - Benefits for Breastfeeding Mothers

Lactation support provides assistance and guidance to breastfeeding mothers to help them establish and maintain a successful breastfeeding relationship with their babies.
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Breastfeeding | Infant Nutrition | Maternal Health | Breast Milk Production | Nursing Advice | Breastfeeding Assistance
Prepared by Nick Harper, reviewed by Dr. David James Simpson

Lactation Support FAQ


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What does a lactation consultant do?

If you’ve decided to breastfeed your baby, a lactation consultant or other breastfeeding support person can help get your breastfeeding off to a smoother start and assist with any problems or concerns that crop up. But what does a lactation specialist do exactly?

What is a Lactation Support Provider (LSP)?

A lactation support provider (LSP) is a health professional who offers breastfeeding support. There are several different types of LSPs, including lactation consultants. LSPs have some differences in background and training, but they’re all dedicated to helping you breastfeed.

Where can I get breastfeeding support?

If you’d like one-to-one breastfeeding support from a private IBCLC, your midwife, health visitor or GP may be able to recommend one who works in your local area. Alternatively, Lactation Consultants of Great Britain has a IBCLC lactation consultant finder on its website, which shows registered IBCLC practitioners close to you.

How can a breastfeeding support specialist help you?

Tailored instruction on breastfeeding if you have twins, triplets, a preemie or an infant with a medical concern. A breastfeeding support specialist with the right training and experience can help get your breastfeeding off to a smooth start and help you overcome any problems feeding your newborn baby.

Where can I get support if I don't breastfeed?

There are various mother support groups which offer infant feeding support: The Breastfeeding Network (BfN) – including the Drugs in Breastmilk Information Service Find more useful organisations. Breastfeeding is the healthiest way to feed your baby. If you decide not to breastfeed or to stop breastfeeding, it is possible to restart.

Where can I donate breast milk if I'm Pregnant?

Twins Trust: feeding twins and triplets. National Childbirth Trust (NCT) is a charity that provides information and support on all aspects of pregnancy, birth and early parenthood, including breastfeeding. UK Association for Milk Banking has information about using donated breast milk if your baby is premature or ill, and how to donate breast milk.

How do I start breastfeeding?

Getting off to the best possible start can play a key part in your breastfeeding journey. Four key factors have been identified by WHO and UNICEF as being important in establishing and sustaining breastfeeding: A breastfeed within the first hour of life – skin-to-skin contact after delivery can help to get this started.

Lactation Support References

If you want to know more about Lactation Support, consider exploring links below:

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