A lactation consultant or specialist is often a nurse who has been
trained to teach and advise women about breast-feeding. Lactation consultants
may be associated with birth units in hospitals.
Lactation consultants are often most helpful for women who:
- Have never breast-fed before.
- Have
had previous problems breast-feeding.
- Have a chronic health
problem, such as diabetes.
- Have had breast surgery.
- Are
breast-feeding more than one child.
- Plan to breast-feed while
working outside the home.
- Need help using a breast
pump.
- Have problems with breast or nipple pain.
- Have a
baby who does not seem to be breast-feeding well.
- Have a special
needs baby, such as one who was born premature or with a health problem that
may interfere with breast-feeding.
