Why should I have a prenatal Lactation Consultation?



Mom's, I have a question for you: Do you ever remember receiving a full breast exam during your pregnancy? I mean not just feeling for lumps, but a full breast examination? With a breastfeeding professional who knows what questions to ask that help identify roadblocks that you will likely need help navigating to be successful in breastfeeding. 

I’ve learned in the last 22 years as an RN and 11 years as an IBCLC is that all women’s breasts and nipple are uniquely different. Large—small—soft—firm—flat nipples—inverted nipples—everted nipples—large areola—small areola—nipples point straight ahead, to the side, straight down toward the floor...okay, enough said! 

But why even talk about this, or have a professional breastfeeding expert to look for breastfeeding “roadblocks” like truly flat nipples... well, in this particular case, and depending on the consistency of your entire breast tissue, if a newborn cannot feel their mothers nipple in his mouth, it will be more difficult (but not impossible) to latch. In my opinion, right at that magical moment that your baby is born, and placed on your chest—skin to skin—And you look at him, really look at him for the first time.  Oh!!! he is so beautiful 😍 Then the nurse asks if you want to try to breastfeed him? Well, Of course! You pull down one side of your hospital gown, and then you hear a small gasp...only to look over at your delivery nurse making 😲😳😔😦 these shocking faces as she realizes, and then exclaims “Oh dear, your nipples are flaaaattt! (flat)  😐😐  "Well, she says...you'll have to use a nipple shield.” Although you are so happy to see your new baby, at the very same time you’re horrified that you have flat nipples...😳😳     ”What in the world does that mean? I’ve never really compared my nipples with others??”...."Will I be able to breastfeed?"

 Okay, so the moral of this story is kind of old on this blog: Be prepared! I have lots of tips and tricks for moms with short, less everted or flat nipples....let’s just be prepared, to feel confident, resourceful, and content! For more information about having a prenatal breastfeeding consultation. If you’re in. Utah County, it just an $85/home visit. (385)-325-1950

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