Benefits of Online Lactation Consulting

Written by Taya Griffin, Yoga Mamas Lactation Consultant

As an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and a mother
who breastfed two little ones, I know first-hand that breastfeeding can be
challenging.

Accessing breastfeeding help when there are no skilled lactation
consultants in one’s area, when one is too unwell to leave her bed, and of course
during global pandemic is even more challenging. While an in-person visit may be the ideal scenario when experiencing a breastfeeding challenge, there are many benefits to why a virtual lactation consult visit may be an excellent option.

For online lactation consulting appointments, nothing more is required than a computer, tablet or phone with a good camera. Good lighting and having a second set of hands can help but isn’t always necessary. The only true need is to have a baby ready to show off their skills (or their challenges) and sometimes virtual visits can be booked right around feeding time to ensure a feed will happen.

Online Lactation Consult appointments allow you to meet from the comfort of your home aligning with your baby’s feeding schedule.

A skilled IBCLC can help you assess and find solutions to the following issues:

Assessing oral structures – With guidance and some good home video skills we can work together to high level assess whether your little one has a tightness in their tongue or lip. This may affect the way that they breastfeed.
Assessing the latch – Using some fun props (think rubber breast!) I can help guide you to latch your baby to decrease pain and to increase the amount that they get at the breast. I also like to add a few tools to your latch “tool-kit” for optimal
Figuring out how to tell that your little one is getting enough at the breast –Relatable analogies and pointing out the difference between a suck and a drink can empower you to feel that you are providing enough milk for your baby.
Other problems include dealing with blocked ducts or mastitis, discussing options in cases where there is supplementation required and low milk supply.

Pre-COVID and during this pandemic I have had the pleasure of helping families latch babies who previously had not been latching, direct clients in using a lactation aid (fancy name for a straw attached to the breast to give baby some flow) and I’ve also helped families by purchasing some of the things they need for their breastfeeding journey.