Lactation Consultant
The Regional Lactation Consultant is a trained professional specialized in breastfeeding and an excellent support in addition to the members of your health care team. The Lactation Consultant is trained to focus on the needs and concerns of the breastfeeding mother–baby pair and to prevent, recognize, and assist with breastfeeding difficulties for patients/clients across the western region.
The Lactation Consultant is available in both hospital and community settings. An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) identifies a specialist in lactation management. IBCLCs have the necessary knowledge, skills, and attitudes to provide quality breastfeeding support and management to mothers and babies with lactation-related issues.
The Lactation Consultant will accept referrals for babies that have:
• Persistent latching difficulties
• Persistent slow/inadequate weight gain
• Anatomical concerns
• Had non-medical supplementation
The Lactation consultant will accept referrals for mothers with:
• Anatomical breast concerns/surgery
• Insufficient milk supply
• Persistent nipple or breast pain
• Delayed lactogenesis II (milk coming-in)
During hospital admission referrals are appropriate for:
• Babies that have not latched in 24hours
• Multiple births
• Late preterm births
Referrals for other mothers/babies with complex issues will also be considered on an individual basis after consultation with the Lactation Consultant.
If you require the support of the Regional Lactation Consultant, please contact your community health nurse, maternal newborn nurse, physician, or nurse practitioner.
Lactation services are available Monday-Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm.