Lactation support for new moms: Tools and resources for your breastfeeding journey

Breastfeeding is often described as natural—but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Everyone speaks of the breastfeeding benefits, but many new moms find themselves wondering whether the discomfort is normal, whether their baby is getting enough milk or why something that “should” come naturally feels so difficult.

Here’s something that might surprise you: around 83 – 86% of infants in the U.S. start out breastfeeding, but only about 56% are still breastfeeding at 6 months. That gap isn’t because parents gave up; it’s often because they didn’t have the right lactation support at the right time.

Breastfeeding can feel like one of the most anxiety-producing things you experience during the first days, weeks and months with your baby, but there is help out there. And that’s exactly where a lactation consultant comes in.

What is a lactation consultant?

A lactation consultant is a healthcare professional specially trained to help with all things breastfeeding. They are certified experts who understand the physical, emotional and practical sides of infant feeding.

Whether you’re still pregnant and want to prepare, or you’re a few weeks postpartum and hitting a wall, a lactation consultant meets you exactly where you are.

What does a lactation consultant do?

A lactation consultant does a lot more than you might expect, before and after your pregnancy.

Before your baby arrives, a lactation consultant can:

• Help you build a breastfeeding prep kit—from the right nursing bra to nipple cream to knowing whether your insurance covers a breast pump before your due date, which you can include in your hospital bag before childbirth
• Walk you through what to expect in those first hours and days of feeding
• Answer questions about your anatomy, health history or any concerns that might affect breastfeeding

After delivery, they can:

• Evaluate your baby's latch and feeding technique in real time
• Assess your milk supply and track your baby's intake
• Guide you on pumping, milk storage and returning to work
• Help you manage challenges like engorgement, soreness or low supply
• Support you well after you leave the hospital, because the hardest days are often at home

Most importantly, they listen. A good lactation consultant will take time to understand your goals and your situation, not just hand you a checklist.

5 common breastfeeding challenges (and how lactation support helps)

Just talk to your mom friends for five minutes, and you’ll know that breastfeeding challenges are incredibly common. Here are some of the things you might have heard about that a lactation consultant can help you work through:

1. Latch difficulties

A poor latch is one of the most common reasons breastfeeding becomes painful or ineffective. Your lactation consultant can identify subtle positioning issues and help your baby latch more deeply and comfortably.

2. Nipple pain or soreness

Some initial tenderness is normal, but persistent pain is something worth addressing. Whether it’s caused by latch issues, nipple shape or a condition like thrush or a bacterial infection, a lactation consultant can help identify the cause and point you toward the right treatment.

3. Concerns about milk supply

Wondering if your baby is getting enough? It’s one of the most common worries among breastfeeding parents. Your lactation consultant can assess your supply, help you understand how to read your baby’s hunger and satisfaction cues, and, if needed, work with your care team on strategies to support your supply.

4. Engorgement or mastitis

Engorgement (when your breasts become overly full and painful) and mastitis (a breast infection) can impact breastfeeding quickly if left unaddressed. Lactation support, along with your OBGYN or primary care physician, can help you manage these conditions and keep your feeding journey on track.

5. Returning to work or introducing a bottle

Navigating pumping schedules, milk storage and how to introduce a bottle without disrupting breastfeeding can feel overwhelming. A lactation consultant helps you build a realistic, sustainable plan to understand your nursing options.

When should you see a lactation consultant?

The honest answer? Anytime you feel like you could use some guidance. But here are some particularly good moments to reach out:

• Before your baby arrives, prenatal lactation visits can help you prepare and set realistic expectations
• In the first few days after birth, when you’re establishing your milk supply and learning to latch (a lactation consultant typically comes by to visit in the hospital)
• When feeding is painful or your baby seems frustrated or unsatisfied
• If you’re worried about milk supply—whether it feels like too much or not enough
• When your baby has a tongue tie or other anatomical concern
• If you’re navigating a NICU stay or feeding a premature infant
• When you’re returning to work and need a pumping plan
• Any time you feel anxious, overwhelmed, or unsure about how feeding is going

Outpatient lactation consultants can see you in a hospital, a clinic, or in some cases, in your home. There are also virtual options if that is more comfortable. There is no concern too small. If something doesn’t feel right, trust that instinct and ask for support. Your care team can refer you to a lactation consultant and coordinate your care.

What to expect on your first visit

If you’ve never seen a lactation consultant before, it’s completely normal not to know what to expect. Here’s a quick overview:

• Your first visit will typically last 60 to 90 minutes.
• Your consultant will ask about your birth experience, your baby’s feeding history, any challenges you’ve noticed and your breastfeeding goals.
• They’ll observe a feeding, check your baby’s weight and work hands-on with you to address any issues.

Many parents describe their first lactation visit as a turning point. They finally have someone who can explain what’s happening and show them a clear path forward.

You deserve lactation support

Breastfeeding is a skill for both you and your baby. It takes time, practice and often a little help. The decision to seek lactation support is one of the most proactive things you can do for yourself and your baby. It is also okay if you have sought support and still find that breastfeeding might not be right for you.

Whether you’re still expecting or already in the thick of those early feeding days, know that you don’t have to figure this out alone. Support is available, and you deserve it.

Talk to your OBGYN or ask your care team about enrolling in our Pregnancy Care and Postpartum Care virtual programs. We’re here to support you and your baby on your journey.