A lactation specialist, also known as a lactation consultant, is a healthcare professional specializing in the clinical management of breastfeeding. As an integral part of the healthcare team, they provide expert breastfeeding and lactation care, promote breastfeeding as the cultural norm, and greatly influence the breastfeeding culture of their setting.
What is a Lactation Specialist’s Role
A lactation specialist’s primary role is educating, supporting, and encouraging women who wish to breastfeed their infants. This includes teaching new moms about the benefits of breastfeeding, how to latch the infant onto the breast properly, and how to maintain a steady milk supply. They also help address common breastfeeding issues such as sore nipples, engorgement, and low milk supply.
How to Become a Lactation Specialist
The pathway to becoming a lactation specialist varies depending on one’s background. However, most lactation specialists are registered nurses who have completed specialized training in lactation and breastfeeding support. They must also pass an international certification exam to become certified as lactation consultants.
The Importance of Lactation Specialists
In a society where breastfeeding rates are far from optimal, lactation specialists play a pivotal role in promoting and supporting breastfeeding. Their expertise and support can greatly increase a woman’s chances of breastfeeding success, which, in turn, can significantly impact the health of both the mother and the baby.
Common Concerns Addressed by Lactation Specialists
Frequency and Duration of Feeds
One common query new mothers pose is about the frequency and duration of feeds. A lactation specialist can guide through this, reinforcing the importance of observing the infant’s hunger cues such as sucking on a fist, making smacking sounds with their lips, and rooting (a newborn reflex where the baby turns their face when their cheek is stroked and makes sucking motions with their mouth).
Ensuring Adequate Milk Supply
Another common concern is whether the baby is getting adequate milk. A lactation specialist can reassure mothers by pointing out signs of adequate milk intake, such as the baby breastfeeding at least eight times in a 24-hour period, displaying a rhythmic suck/swallow/pause/suck pattern during feeds, and gaining appropriate weight.
Returning to Work/School
Transitioning back to work or school after maternity leave can be challenging. A lactation specialist can help mothers understand their rights, develop a feeding/pumping schedule, and address issues related to breast milk storage.
Foods That Help with Lactation
The mother’s diet is one of the most critical factors that influence milk production. Several lactation-helping foods are believed to enhance milk production.
Whole Grains
Whole grains like oats and barley are rich in dietary beta-glucan, which is believed to increase prolactin levels, the hormone responsible for milk production.
Protein-Rich Foods
Foods high in protein, like fish, chicken, meat, or tofu, can also support lactation.
Green Vegetables
Green leafy vegetables such as kale, spinach, and arugula are packed with essential nutrients and are believed to aid in lactation.
Fennel and Fenugreek Seeds
Both fennel and its seeds and fenugreek seeds contain phytoestrogens, which are believed to help increase milk production.
Papaya
This tropical fruit has been used in many cultures to enhance milk production, although the scientific evidence supporting this is limited.
Foods to Avoid
While there are no specific foods that decrease milk supply, it is recommended that breastfeeding mothers limit their consumption of alcohol as it can inhibit the release of oxytocin, a hormone that plays a key role in milk letdown.
