Should I See a Lactation Consultant BEFORE My Baby Arrives?

with our incredible Lactation Consultant, Paola Vallarino

For expecting parents, welcoming a baby is both thrilling and nerve-wracking. Even those preparing for their second or third child can find each new arrival brings fresh joys and challenges, especially if they’ve faced difficulties with feeding in the past.

The Benefits of Prenatal Feeding Education

Studies consistently show that prenatal breastfeeding education can greatly enhance breastfeeding success, improve a mother’s perception of her baby, and boost overall maternal well-being. Research highlights several key benefits of receiving support before birth, including:

• A higher likelihood of successful breastfeeding compared to those who don’t receive prenatal guidance.

• Increased breastfeeding self-efficacy, or a mother's confidence in her ability to breastfeed, which is closely linked to breastfeeding success.

• A significantly higher rate of exclusive breastfeeding one month after birth when a lactation consultant provides prenatal guidance.

What Does "Success" Mean to Us?

When we refer to "success," we mean achieving a family's unique feeding goals for their baby. This doesn't necessarily equate to exclusive breastfeeding. At Mamas Au Lait, we define a successful feeding journey by whether parents meet their specific goals—whether that’s exclusive breastfeeding, combo feeding, pumping, or anything in between.

That’s why consulting with a lactation expert before your baby arrives can be beneficial, no matter your feeding plans. Whether you want to breastfeed exclusively, pump, or combine feeding methods, we can create a personalized plan to support your journey.

Why You Should Have a Feeding Plan Before Birth

Just as many parents prepare a birth plan, a feeding plan is equally important. You might not have considered it yet, but here's why it matters:

A feeding plan means:

• Reflecting on your feeding goals and preparing accordingly.

• Packing everything you’ll need in your hospital bag.

• Keeping your lactation consultant’s contact details handy and possibly scheduling an initial consultation for reassurance.

• Staying flexible with your plan and knowing what to expect, including understanding potential challenges and red flags.

• Gaining hands-on experience:  

• If you plan to breastfeed, practicing different feeding positions beforehand so you’re ready when your baby arrives.

• If you plan to pump, learning how to choose the right pump, fit flanges, and optimize your sessions, as well as understanding the technical details, like how to prevent clogging.

• If you plan to bottle-feed, we’ll explore bottle options, practice paced bottle feeding, and discuss milk storage and other concerns.

For parents who want to feel prepared and confident when their baby arrives, prenatal lactation support helps set expectations and provide clarity during uncertain times.

Book your appointment today and let us guide you through this exciting journey!

Paola Vallarino, IBCLC