Help! I saw a lactation consultant in the hospital, I still feel lost!

Many moms are excited about having the option. to see lactation consultants in. the hospital after their delivery. We often expect that while we are in the hospital we will learn all we need to know about breastfeeding. Ideally there would be. someone on. the unit at all times to help. Realistically...you. are there for a short. time and your lactation. consultant needs to see ALL of the breastfeeding moms on. the unit. There are some hospitals that have outpatient services for lactation but many do not.

You go home in most instances in 24-48 hours, battling fatigue and information overload.

You do have options. Be aware that you may have to make a call to your Insurance company as some have not yet caught up with the affordable care act to approve lactation services. You may need a referral from you. or your babies doctor. You may have to pay out of pocket and seek reimbursement.

Consider the cost and your desires. If you look at the financial outlay to. use formula, the average cost for one year: Between $1,138.5 and $1,188.00, according to 2023 Breastfeeding Center of Ann Arbor. If you compare the cost, lactation consulting is not so bad. In my area (East Texas) the average appointment cost is less than $200 per visit by your fifth visit you would be at minimum mark. The up side is you would not need to spend time cleaning and sterilizing bottle, mixing and storing formula, unless you choose to or need to pump.

There are other benefits to mom and baby, Heath benefits, emotional benefits, the closeness that develops.

There is always the allergies some babys have to various components, contamination, recalls, shortages. Wow that's a lot to deal with. I will acknowledge that breastfeeding can be a lot also. For sure breastfeeding for some moms can be difficult. The solution professional assistance. Be aware as you hear the phrase from well meaning family and friends "Just give a bottle, it's so much easier". it may seem physically easier but there is an emotional component too.

Call your IBCLC to help you navigate the road to breastfeeding.