When Should I See a Lactation Specialist?

Breastfeeding offers numerous benefits and is an excellent way to both nourish and bond with your little one. Unfortunately, breastfeeding is not always easy as various challenges can come up. For instance, some babies have difficulty latching onto the breast and some mothers experience low milk supply. The experienced and knowledgeable lactation specialists at Phoenix Pediatrics in Phoenix and Scottsdale, AZ, help moms and babies overcome breastfeeding challenges and nurse successfully. 

Benefits of Breastfeeding

The benefits of breastfeeding to both mom and baby are numerous. Some of the many reasons to try breastfeeding include:

• Breastmilk is easily digested by babies
• Breastmilk provides an optimal balance of nutrients
• Breastmilk contains antibodies for preventing infections and diseases
• Breastfeeding reduces baby’s risk of developing certain conditions (e.g. ear infections, asthma, and diabetes)
• Breastfeeding reduces mom’s risk of developing diabetes, high blood pressure, and certain types of cancers
• Promotes bonding between mother and child 

Breastfeeding Challenges

Although breastfeeding is a natural process with many wonderful benefits, it does not go smoothly for everyone. Different challenges can occur that can make nursing a stressful experience. If you are having any trouble with breastfeeding, then it is time to see a lactation specialist. 

Examples of some of the breastfeeding challenges that many mothers and babies experience include:

• Difficulty latching onto the breast 
• Mom experiences pain when baby is latched on
• Baby refuses to take the breast or becomes fussy
• Baby is not gaining enough weight or has lost weight
• Breasts have become engorged with milk and are painful
• Nipples have become sore and painful
• Not enough breastmilk is being produced

How a Lactation Specialist Can Help

The lactation specialists at our office are here to help moms and babies overcome nursing challenges and achieve breastfeeding success. Whether you are dealing with low milk supply or your little one is having trouble properly latching on, a lactation specialist can help address whatever difficulties you or your baby are experiencing. The lactation specialist is also here to offer support and guidance.

Some of the ways a lactation specialist can help include teaching your little one how to latch on correctly, as well as repositioning your baby during nursing to correct any issues. We want to improve the breastfeeding experience for both you and your baby. It should be both pain and stress free so you can focus on bonding with your little one. 

It is time to see a lactation specialist if you and your baby are having a hard time with breastfeeding. To schedule a consultation with a skilled lactation specialist in Phoenix and Scottsdale, AZ, call Phoenix Pediatrics at (602) 242-5121.