What Is a Lactation Consultant — and Do You Need One?

Breastfeeding is one of the most natural things in the world — and one of the most challenging. If you've struggled with latch, pain, low supply, or just aren't sure whether what you're experiencing is normal, you're not alone. That's exactly where a lactation consultant comes in.

What is a lactation consultant?

A lactation consultant (LC) is a healthcare professional trained to support mothers and babies with feeding. The highest credential is the IBCLC — International Board Certified Lactation Consultant — which requires thousands of hours of clinical experience and a rigorous board exam. IBCLCs can work in hospitals, private practices, or as independent practitioners who make home visits.

What do they actually do?

During a consultation, an IBCLC will assess your latch, observe a full feeding, evaluate your baby's weight gain and output, and discuss your goals and concerns. They can help with painful latch or nipple damage, low or oversupply, tongue and lip ties, premature infants or NICU follow-up, return-to-work pumping schedules, and weaning when the time comes.

When should you reach out?

Ideally, before you give birth. A prenatal consultation can set expectations and give you a foundation. But if you're already in the thick of it — reaching out in the first few days or weeks is never too late. Pain during feeding is not normal and is one of the most common reasons mothers stop breastfeeding before they want to.

How do you find one?

Look for the IBCLC credential specifically. Ask your OB, midwife, or pediatrician for a referral, or search a directory like matrea to find IBCLCs near you who accept your insurance.