A lactation consultation is a professional appointment with a clinical expert in assisting new moms with overcoming breastfeeding problems such as painful feedings as a result of sore nipples.  The consultation can take place either in your home or in an office setting. The initial session usually takes approximately 1-1/2 to 2 hours to complete. At the conclusion of the session, mom will practice nursing baby with less pain or may be taught to use a breastpump until healing takes place. Sometimes another visit is scheduled for the following day; otherwise, phone contact is encouraged until the problem(s) are fully resolved.

Lactation consultation sessions include:

• Measuring and recording weight, and taking a prenatal, birth, and feeding history.

• Observation of a feeding; milk expression; appearance of the mother, her breast, the baby, and milk (if seen); pre- and post-feeding weights to measure volume of intake at the breast, and any other artifacts that may be pertinent.

• A feeding assessment, where the consultant carefully and critically observes the baby's feeding cues, pre-feeding behaviors, and response to the feeding, as well as the ability to transfer milk – a complex, integrated activity.

• Documenting the findings and composing a summary of the plan agreed upon by the mother and the consultant, which includes any referrals to other care providers and support services.

• Giving a copy of the plan to the mother and reiterating follow-up arrangements.

• Writing a summary of the session and communicating with pertinent health care providers. Conducting follow-up meetings and/or phone calls, as long as needed, with subsequent documentation and sharing of the plan.