How do you go about seeing a lactation consultant?

Question

People have mentioned this to me and act like I should just know...I get so frustrated because this is my first pregnancy and people (including my doctor) just seem to assume I know everything I'm supposed to do. Well I'll be the first to admit I don't have a clue what all is involved with labor, delivery, breastfeeding, birthing classes....

but anyway, I didn't mean to rant.

So what exactly does a lactation consultant do for you? Do I find one through my doctor or through the hospital? Is it free or does it cost?

Sorry to sound naive, but my main source of info is my mother and she hasn't had a child for over 15 yrs (my little brother) so she's not exactly up on everything.

And while I'm at it...maternity pads. On the internet women act like you need to bring your own, but my mother said they gave them to her at the hospital??

Answer 1

Hospitals provide your pads while your there, and the Post partum nurses "double" as a lactation consultant, and can refer you to someone else upon release from the hospital if need be.

Answer 2

Lactation consultants teach you the 'techniques' of breast feeding;nursing is not always as simple as it sounds. Your OB or pediatrician can refer one to you.

The hospital will provide pads, and sometimes disposable panties.  They will also provide diapers while in the hospital.

Answer 3

First, you don't need to bring pads to the hospital. Yes, the ones they give you are huge, almost like a diaper... but when you are swollen and gushing blood down there, do you really care? You will likely be sitting on an ice pack and the giant hospital pad for the first 24 hours after birth anyway. Save your money. Always overnights would be soaked through in 20 min.

Lactation consultants vary by area. Most big hospitals have grants that pay for lactation consultants. It is totally free in most large hospitals, even after you check out. The area I live in had a free lactation consultant (well, 3!) on staff M-F during normal business hours in a walk-in clinic.

They also have private ones where you could end up paying $75 an hour and up, but usually those will come to your house. Call around to local hospitals and see what they offer and prices.

Answer 4

i didn't see a lactation nurse until after i had given birth to my daughter. i have one 2 year old. the nurse came in when it was time for me to feed my daughter and show me how to get her mouth latched onto my nipple, how to properly hold her so it's comfortable for me and for her, and how to switch b*****s after about 15 minutes so that my nipples don't bleed too much or get to sore. mine did crack though and you'll definitely want to buy some cream for them. the nurse also helped with questions about what to eat or not eat or drink while breastfeeding. like any medications, alcohol, foods that you aren't supposed to ingest while you are breastfeeding because your supply is the babies supply.

also i can't remember if they gave me any pads for my b*****s? is that what you are talking about or are you talking about for down there? they had pads for down there availabel for me; also lots of witch hazel pads which helps with the swelling down there. especially since i had some stitches. they also give you some spray to help with the pain down there and a squirt bottle to gently cleanse the area since you won't be able to wash it after you use the bathroom. i was able to take a shower in my room with the help of my mom and grandmother but it was okay. you have to be careful for a few days but they'll give you medicine to help you. hopes this helps.