Lactation Support
Professional and nurturing breastfeeding help from Paula Ross, RN, CPM, IBCLC
What is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC)
An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is a health care professional with advanced training who specializes in the clinical management of lactation. IBCLCs have completed college level courses including biology, anatomy/physiology, infant growth and development, nutrition, and psychology. They have completed at least 90 hours of lactation-specific education and have spent a minimum of 300 to 1000 hours directly assisting families with lactation and infant feeding (depending on which pathway they take.) In addition, they have passed an exam administered by International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners demonstrating their competency in these areas, they complete ongoing continuing education, and they must recertify every five years.
Why see an IBCLC?
We can help with things like sore nipples and breast pain, milk supply issues, a baby who refuses to latch, a baby who is gaining too little or too much weight, a premature baby, or twins. We can offer education and advice on medications while breastfeeding, how to continue breastfeeding while you are working, breastfeeding when you are ill, how to wean from a nipple shield, and pumping your milk.
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As an IBCLC, my goal is to promote and normalize breastfeeding and to share the information that will help you to make an informed decision. At the same time, I am aware that there are many factors which may affect a family's decision when choosing how to feed their baby, and I am aware that “breastfeeding” may look different for different families. As your Lactation Consultant, my goal is always to support and encourage you in reaching your own goals.
I have 15+ years experience assisting new families with breastfeeding. Prior to offering consults in private practice, I supported new breastfeeding parents as a RN working in Mother-Baby, NICU, and then as a Lactation Consultant for Baptist Health, which included answering phone calls for the Arkansas Breastfeeding Help Line.
If you are struggling with breastfeeding or have questions, please reach out.
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