What Do Lactation Consultants Do? A Closer Look at This Essential Role

If you’ve ever breastfed or know someone who has, you’ve probably heard of lactation consultants. Maybe you’ve even worked with one yourself! But have you ever wondered what exactly a lactation consultant does? Their role goes far beyond simply helping a baby latch—lactation consultants are specialists who provide crucial support during one of the most intimate and sometimes challenging aspects of parenting.

Let me take you through what a lactation consultant does, and why they’re an invaluable resource for so many families.

Support at Every Stage of the Breastfeeding Journey

Lactation consultants are trained professionals who specialize in all things breastfeeding and lactation. From the very first moments after birth through weaning (and even beyond), they are there to help parents navigate the ups and downs of feeding. Their goal is to ensure that both mom and baby are healthy, happy, and supported in their breastfeeding relationship.

Whether it’s in a hospital setting, a clinic, or even in the comfort of a family’s home, lactation consultants provide hands-on assistance, education, and emotional support. The journey to successful breastfeeding looks different for everyone, and lactation consultants tailor their guidance to fit each family’s unique needs.

What Does a Lactation Consultant Help With?

Lactation consultants can support families in a wide range of scenarios. Here are just a few of the key things they help with:

1. Latching and Positioning One of the most common reasons families seek help from a lactation consultant is trouble with latching. A good latch is essential for both mom’s comfort and baby’s ability to transfer milk effectively. Lactation consultants use various techniques and positions to guide parents, making sure the baby is properly latched and feeding comfortably.

Sometimes it’s a simple tweak in positioning that makes all the difference. Other times, the issue may be more complex, and the lactation consultant will need to do a deeper assessment to identify potential challenges, like a tongue-tie or flat nipples.

2. Milk Supply Concerns A common worry for new moms is whether they’re making enough milk for their baby. Lactation consultants can help assess milk supply by observing feeds, checking baby’s weight gain, and asking the right questions. They can also provide strategies to increase milk production, such as adjusting feeding schedules or introducing pumping at certain times.

On the flip side, some moms may struggle with oversupply, and lactation consultants help with managing issues like engorgement or clogged ducts to make breastfeeding more comfortable and balanced.

3. Managing Pain and Discomfort Breastfeeding shouldn’t be painful, but for many moms, it can be—especially in the early days. From sore nipples to engorged breasts, lactation consultants are trained to troubleshoot the causes of pain and offer solutions. They’ll help identify whether discomfort is due to positioning, latch issues, or an underlying problem like mastitis, and they’ll provide strategies to alleviate the pain and promote healing.

4. Pumping and Bottle Feeding For moms who are pumping or combining breastfeeding with bottle feeding, lactation consultants offer guidance on how to maximize milk output with the pump, how to choose the right equipment, and how to maintain milk supply. They can also help navigate the transition to bottle feeding, ensuring the baby is still receiving all the benefits of breast milk even when not nursing directly from the breast.

5. Specialized Support for Unique Situations Not every breastfeeding journey goes according to plan, and some situations require specialized knowledge. Lactation consultants can help in cases where a baby is born premature, when the mother has a medical condition that may affect breastfeeding, or when the baby has oral restrictions like tongue-tie. They’re also experienced in supporting moms who need to relactate after a break from breastfeeding or who are inducing lactation for adoptive or surrogate-fed babies.

Why Lactation Consultants Matter

The truth is, breastfeeding can be hard. It’s a beautiful and natural process, but it doesn’t always come naturally. That’s where lactation consultants shine—they provide expertise, empathy, and hands-on guidance when families need it most.

A lactation consultant’s role is about more than just offering practical advice. It’s about empowering parents to trust their bodies, encouraging confidence in their ability to feed their baby, and helping them meet their personal breastfeeding goals—whether that’s exclusively breastfeeding, combo feeding, or pumping.

Where Do Lactation Consultants Work?

You can find lactation consultants in a variety of settings:

• Hospitals: Many lactation consultants work in maternity wards, offering support to new mothers in the hours and days following birth.
• Private Practice: Some IBCLCs offer one-on-one consultations either in-home or through virtual visits, providing personalized care.
• Breastfeeding Clinics: These clinics often employ lactation consultants who specialize in everything from prenatal education to postpartum support.
• Pediatric Offices: Some lactation consultants collaborate with pediatricians to help families whose babies have feeding challenges that impact growth and development.

Certification and Training

The most recognized credential for lactation consultants is the IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant), which requires extensive education, hands-on clinical hours, and passing a rigorous exam. An IBCLC has a deep understanding of lactation, human anatomy, infant development, and breastfeeding challenges. This certification ensures that the consultant is equipped to provide comprehensive care.

Many lactation consultants also come from a background in nursing, midwifery, or other healthcare professions, which gives them a strong foundation in working with mothers and babies. But no matter their path, all IBCLCs share a passion for supporting families through the breastfeeding journey.

Bottom Line: Lactation Consultants Are a Lifeline for Families

When breastfeeding challenges arise, lactation consultants are there to provide expert guidance, reassurance, and a helping hand. Whether it’s helping