Throughout your entire pregnancy, you spend so much time hearing about the benefits of breastfeeding. As you near your due date, you start to think about what this will look like. You pick out the perfect glider to prepare for those marathon nursing sessions, and you stock up your wardrobe with easy-to-maneuver nursing tops. You read the books, listen to the podcasts, and get your pump. And then that moment finally comes! The nurse hands you your baby, you hold them close to your chest, and owwwwww. What the heck is this?! The truth is that nursing can be a complicated and even painful experience if you aren’t ready for it. While it might be a natural process, that doesn’t guarantee that it’s an easy one. That’s when it’s time to call in lactation consultants in Springfield, IL for some help!
Explore The Magic Of Lactation Consultants In Springfield, IL
What Is A Lactation Consultant And How Can They Support You?
Certified Lactation Consultants are experts who have made their career out of helping people throughout their breastfeeding journeys. Not only do they have the training and the experience, but they also know just how frustrating it can be to struggle through those nursing sessions. In fact, many people get started in the field after going through their own breastfeeding obstacles. As a result, they know how to listen to your concerns and help you find effective solutions without any judgment.
Typically, lactation consultants offer two options for their assistance: before and after your baby arrives. If you choose to hire one ahead of labor, they are going to do everything possible to get you ready for those early sessions. They will walk you through what to expect, common obstacles you might face, and how to avoid major issues. They might also consider things like your health history or your current nursing setup and give you recommendations based on this. Their goal is to help you find all the resources possible so you can have the best experience once your baby arrives.
Support After Delivery
Then, following delivery, they will be there to help you navigate issues like tongue-tie, supply issues, and nipple pain. Most lactation consultants will offer an in-person appointment where they will come to your side, perform an evaluation, and create a care plan. They might suggest a follow-up visit after they are done to ensure you are on the path to success. Additionally, many lactation consultants can help you with concerns such as weaning or returning to work.
Because breastfeeding can be such a personal experience, I always advise my clients to search for the consultant that matches your style. You want someone you’ll feel comfortable answering your questions and performing an evaluation. This can be an overwhelming experience in the wrong hands! As a Springfield newborn photographer, I spend a lot of my time chatting with my clients about the best local professionals. If you are looking for a lactation consultant around Springfield, IL, here are the two I always recommend!
2 Fantastic Lactation Consultants In Springfield, IL Ready To Support You And Your Little One
Springfield Lactation
Springfield, Illinois
Springfield Lactation is a private practice that was started by International Board Certified Lactation Consultant Malia Naqvi. Malia brings 10 years of experience, working in hospital and outpatient settings, to help moms have a happier breastfeeding experience. For Malia, this work is personal. Before she got started as a consultant, she went through her own struggles with painful breastfeeding. Her search for a consultant is what inspired her to become one herself!
Malia understands that each and every patient is completely unique. She spends time getting to know you so she can provide assistance tailored to your needs. When you start out, you will have a home visit, during which Malia will come to you and perform an assessment. This visit typically lasts around 90-120 minutes. During this time, she will observe a feeding complete with latch and positioning assessments. She will measure how much milk your baby is taking in and will then figure out techniques for improving intake.
She can also answer any questions you might have about bottle feeding or pumping. From there, she will provide you with a care plan to get you the results you want. If you would like, you will be able to book a follow-up where Malia performs another feeding evaluation to see if you are making improvements. She can then update the care plan as needed.
Outside of her postpartum care, Malia offers virtual consultations as well as prenatal packages. Springfield Lactation is a part of The Lactation Network and accepts several insurance plans. You can check out her website to see if yours is accepted ahead of booking a visit.
HSHS St. John’s Hospital
800 E. Carpenter St, Springfield, Illinois 62769
HSHS St. John’s Hospital is on a mission to simplify breastfeeding. When it comes to supporting families, this center is a bit of an original. In 1998, it was deemed the first Baby Friendly practice in both the state of Illinois and the entire Midwest. One of the many things that helped it earn this title is its commitment to assisting new moms as they start to nurse. You will have a nurse by your side throughout those early feedings, and they will prioritize skin-to-skin as soon as your babies are born. They will also encourage you to keep your baby in the room so you can learn their cues early on.
Beyond their immediate postpartum support, this hospital offers a number of resources that will help you before and after your baby is born. Throughout your pregnancy, you can sign up for one of their breastfeeding classes, which will walk you through what you can expect. Following delivery, you can choose from options like telephone counseling, breastfeeding information, and in-person sessions. They additionally offer an exceptional Moms Support Group where you can meet with other new parents, receive advice from certified consultants, and have honest conversations with people sharing this same experience.
You Will Love Having The Support Of Lactation Consultants In Springfield, IL
Breastfeeding can be a difficult journey, but you have the tools to help you through it! With these lactation consultants in Springfield, IL, you can have a positive nursing experience!
Are you looking for more ways to make this stage a little more picture-perfect? Then I would love to connect! I am a Springfield newborn photographer, and I love working with parents to help them remember every milestone. If you have been considering booking your session, let’s chat about it! Send me a message today to find out more!
