Lactation Counseling

As a Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC), I'm here to offer warm and knowledgeable support to families embarking on their breastfeeding journey. From ensuring a proper latch to addressing common hurdles like nipple pain and low milk supply, I provide expert guidance every step of the way. Together, we'll explore the intricacies of milk production, deciphering your baby's feeding cues and nurturing a strong and healthy breastfeeding bond. Whether you choose to breastfeed or bottle feed, I'm dedicated to ensuring safe and nourishing feeding practices tailored to your family's unique needs. I also work closely with your healthcare team to ensure that the chestfeeding parent and baby are thriving.

Smiling Heather holding baby after feeding.

Who Benefits From This Service

Pregnant individuals seeking preparation for successful breastfeeding, new mothers experiencing challenges with breastfeeding, or those seeking additional support and information can benefit from the expertise of a Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC). CLCs assist in addressing common breastfeeding issues such as latch problems, nipple pain, low milk supply, and overall breastfeeding management. Support with bottle feeding, bottle refusal, and safe formula preparation is also available. The services of a CLC are inclusive and designed to enhance the overall feeding experience for both the parent and the baby.

INCLUDING

  • First-Time Parents
    Individuals new to breastfeeding can benefit from guidance on techniques, positions, and understanding newborn feeding cues to ensure a successful breastfeeding experience.

  • New Mothers Facing Breastfeeding Challenges
    Those experiencing issues such as latch difficulties, nipple pain, low milk supply, or infant feeding problems can receive targeted support to overcome these obstacles.

  • Individuals with Special Circumstances
    Those with premature babies, multiples, or babies with medical conditions can get specialized advice to manage their unique breastfeeding situations.

  • Parents Seeking Emotional and Educational Support Anyone looking for compassionate support and evidence-based information on breastfeeding practices, milk production, and maintaining a healthy breastfeeding relationship will find valuable resources and reassurance.

“Heather was essential to my postpartum recovery. Her calm and nurturing presence, baby expertise, and experience with breastfeeding were invaluable. Her nourishing meals and ability to help with our five-year-old made a huge difference. I highly recommend her!”

– M&A

How I Can Support You As A Lactation Counselor

  • Expert Guidance and Encouragement
    Provide invaluable support to new parents on their breastfeeding journey with expert advice and encouragement.

  • Thorough Assessments
    Conduct comprehensive assessments of latch, positioning, and breastfeeding dynamics, addressing any challenges or concerns.

  • Evidence-Based Information
    Offer evidence-based information on milk production, infant feeding behaviors, and strategies for overcoming common breastfeeding difficulties.

  • Emotional Support and Reassurance
    Create a nurturing environment through emotional support and reassurance, fostering confidence and a positive breastfeeding experience.

  • Collaboration and Practical Tips
    Collaborate with healthcare professionals, provide practical tips for managing breastfeeding at home, and empower parents to make informed decisions about their infant's nutrition.

Prenatal Class

$150
2 hours in your home

  • Prepare for a successful breastfeeding journey with essential knowledge and practical skills 

  • Learn breastfeeding benefits, milk supply basics, hand expression, latch techniques, positions, and hunger cues

  • Includes strategies for managing challenges and ensuring a comfortable feeding experience.

After Arrival

$300 (3 months)
3 home visits + email support

  • Covers fundamentals including proper latch, recognizing feeding cues, and establishing a healthy milk supply.

  • Challenges such as nipple pain, engorgement, and ensuring adequate milk intake will be reviewed, with practical tips for a positive breastfeeding experience.

  • Guidance on pump use, and flange fitting offered as needed.

Returning to Work/Bottle Refusal

$150
1 home visit plus + email support

  • Returning to work can feel overwhelming as a nursing parent; we will help you plan and troubleshoot, supporting you through this transition to ensure you and your baby are thriving. 

  • I am here to support all of your bottle-feeding needs. For our bottle refusers, we will work together to understand your challenges and ensure that babies’ nutritional needs are met while we find a path forward.

Have Questions?

  • Lactation and feeding support can be provided in your Central Oregon home or virtually through telehealth.

  • Not at this time. However, a super bill can be created for you to submit to your insurer.

  • Yes! Infant feeding is my specialty, and I have taken advanced training on bottle feeding under difficult circumstances and bottle refusal. We will work together to find the best feeding situation for your little one.

  • I often work at home with families, helping to support the care plan put forth by the baby's MD and IBCLC. I can help strategize how to balance circumstances like triple feeding or the use of a nipple shield while ensuring the baby thrives, and the birthing parent can still get plenty of rest and have a supported postpartum recovery.

Let’s talk about how I can support the health and well-being of your family.

I am here to help.