Lactation Support

Breastfeeding can be a beautiful bonding experience between a mother and baby, but it’s not always easy. Many parents encounter challenges, such as difficulty with the baby’s latch, low milk supply, or pain during feeding. This is where lactation support becomes invaluable. In this article, you will learn what lactation support entails, the services offered, and how our team can assist you.

At Bootin and Savrick Pediatric Associates in Houston, Texas, we offer comprehensive lactation support services designed to guide you through your breastfeeding journey. Our certified lactation specialist, who is also a nurse practitioner—a rare offering at a pediatric practice—provides personalized care in-house. Contact us today for any assistance you may need!

Mothers breasfeeding their newborns after receiving lactation support in Houston, Texas.

What is Lactation Support?

Lactation support is a service designed to help breastfeeding parents with all aspects of breastfeeding, whether you are just starting or are facing new challenges further along in your breastfeeding journey. This type of support is available through certified lactation consultants who offer guidance, troubleshoot problems, and provide reassurance during what can be a physically and emotionally demanding time.

What is a Lactation Consultant?

A lactation consultant is a healthcare professional with specialized training in breastfeeding management. Lactation consultants are experts in human milk production, breastfeeding techniques, and common breastfeeding challenges. They work closely with families to ensure breastfeeding is going well, provide advice, and address any concerns.

At Bootin and Savrick Pediatric Associates, our certified lactation specialist is a nurse practitioner, meaning you’ll receive expert breastfeeding support from someone who understands your baby’s overall health needs as well. This integrated approach is a rare and valuable resource for breastfeeding parents.

What Services Do Lactation Support Services Include?

Lactation support services at Bootin and Savrick Pediatric Associates encompass a wide range of resources designed to help parents successfully breastfeed. Below is a brief overview of the services we offer at Bootin and Savrick Pediatrics.

  • Latch Assistance: Latch issues are common in the early days of breastfeeding. Our lactation consultants can help identify why your baby may be having trouble latching and provide guidance on how to improve it.
  • Positioning: Finding the best breastfeeding position can make a big difference in your comfort and your baby’s ability to feed effectively. We’ll help you try different breastfeeding positions to find what works best for you and your baby.
  • Tricks to Encourage the Baby to Breastfeed: Sometimes babies need encouragement to breastfeed. We provide techniques and tips to help stimulate your baby’s interest in nursing.
  • Supply Issues: Low milk supply can be stressful for breastfeeding parents. We offer strategies to increase your milk production and ensure your baby is getting enough to eat.
  • Prematurity: Premature babies may struggle with breastfeeding due to underdeveloped sucking reflexes. We offer specialized care to support both the baby and parent through these challenges.
  • Nipple or Breast Pain: Breastfeeding shouldn’t hurt. We address common causes of pain, such as poor latch or mastitis, and help you find relief.
  • Pump-Related Issues: For parents who are using breast pumps, we can assist with troubleshooting pump-related problems and provide advice on pumping schedules and equipment.

What to Expect From a Lactation Consultant Visit

When you schedule a lactation consultant appointment at Bootin and Savrick Pediatric Associates, you can expect a thorough, personalized consultation lasting approximately 45 minutes.

During the visit, the consultant will assess your baby’s latch, observe a feeding session, and provide recommendations based on what they see. You’ll receive hands-on guidance to improve your breastfeeding technique and address any concerns. The visit is designed to empower you with the knowledge and tools you need to breastfeed confidently.

How Does a Lactation Consultant Help?

A lactation consultant provides expert support in various ways. They teach proper breastfeeding techniques, help troubleshoot problems, and work closely with you to address specific challenges, such as improving your baby’s latch, increasing milk supply, or managing nipple pain.

Our goal is to provide you with the right resources and encouragement so that you can feel confident and supported throughout your breastfeeding journey. Whether you need help adjusting your baby’s position or advice on breast pumps, a lactation consultant is there to guide you.

The Importance of Continued Lactation Support After Leaving the Hospital

After leaving the hospital, working with a lactation consultant—either in a group setting or one-on-one—can make a significant difference in your breastfeeding journey. Many insurance companies offer lactation support as a covered service, so it’s a good idea to call your provider and ask what specific options are available.

Additionally, The Lactation Foundation, a superb local clinic funded through a grant by The University of Texas, provides expert advice through appointments. Texas Children’s Hospital and The Woman’s Hospital of Texas also offer breastfeeding support groups, which many new moms find immensely helpful in navigating the challenges of breastfeeding.

At Bootin and Savrick Pediatric Associates, we recognize that while professional lactation consultants play a crucial role in addressing medical and technical breastfeeding challenges, breastfeeding peer counselors, support, and access to community resources are equally important.

Our practice offers a holistic approach that connects families to the best local breastfeeding resources, including expert guidance, a breastfeeding peer counselor, and support groups. Whether you’re dealing with latch issues, low milk supply, or simply seeking encouragement, our services and connections provide the comprehensive support you need to successfully breastfeed your baby.

When Should I Call a Lactation Consultant?

You should consider calling a lactation consultant if:

  • You are experiencing pain during breastfeeding.
  • Your baby is having trouble latching or feeding effectively.
  • You’re concerned about your milk supply.
  • You have a premature baby or a baby with special needs.
  • You’re returning to work and need help with pumping.
  • You have questions about breastfeeding techniques or products.
 

At Bootin and Savrick Pediatric Associates, we encourage new parents to seek support early. The sooner you address any breastfeeding challenges, the sooner you can enjoy a smooth and fulfilling breastfeeding experience.

Questions to Ask a Lactation Consultant

When you meet with a lactation consultant, it can be helpful to have a list of questions prepared. Some good questions to consider include:

  • How can I tell if my baby is getting enough milk?
  • What are the signs of a proper latch?
  • How do I know when my milk supply has regulated?
  • What is the best breastfeeding position for me and my baby?
  • How can I increase my milk supply?
  • What should I do if I experience pain while breastfeeding?
  • How do I maintain breastfeeding after returning to work?
 

Asking these questions can help you feel more prepared and confident in your breastfeeding journey.

Expert Lactation Support at Bootin and Savrick Pediatric Associates

Lactation support can make all the difference for parents navigating the complexities of breastfeeding. Bootin and Savrick Pediatric Associates in Houston, Texas, is proud to offer in-house lactation support with our certified lactation specialist, who is also a nurse practitioner. From latch assistance to advice on breast pumps, our 45-minute consultations are designed to address your unique needs and help you breastfeed successfully.

Don’t let breastfeeding challenges deter you—help is available. Schedule an appointment with Bootin and Savrick Pediatric Associates today to receive the breastfeeding support you need for a healthy and rewarding breastfeeding journey.

Medically reviewed by Monica McGrann, MD