Breastfeeding medicine is a physician subspecialty focused on the medical side of breastfeeding and lactation. It is for the moments when breastfeeding challenges go beyond positioning and latch, and start to involve something that needs a diagnosis, a prescription, or a medical procedure.
Do I still need an IBCLC if I see a breastfeeding medicine physician?
Not necessarily, though many families work with both.
IBCLCs are lactation experts who provide excellent hands on support for the vast majority of common breastfeeding challenges, things like latch, positioning, milk supply concerns, and general feeding support. As a physician who is also an IBCLC, I bring that same lactation expertise, plus the ability to diagnose and treat the medical issues that can come along with breastfeeding.
What can a breastfeeding medicine physician do that an IBCLC cannot?
I can assess for tongue tie and recommend whether a release is appropriate. I can diagnose and treat recurrent mastitis, including prescribing antibiotics when needed. I can run labs to check for underlying medical conditions affecting supply or feeding. I can prescribe medications for low milk supply, and support lactation induction for non birthing parents. I can help with plans for abrupt weaning when it becomes medically necessary. And I can offer guidance when you need a medical procedure and want to know how to safely continue breastfeeding through it.
What if I have already seen an IBCLC and I am still struggling?
That is one of the most common reasons families come see me.
Sometimes a dyad has already worked with a wonderful IBCLC, done everything right, and is still struggling. In those cases, a breastfeeding medicine visit can offer a second opinion and a deeper medical look at what else might be going on.
Who is a good fit for a breastfeeding medicine visit?
If you are dealing with pain that is not resolving, recurrent plugged ducts or mastitis, a possible tongue tie, or you simply feel like something medical is being missed, this visit is for you.
How do I schedule?
I offer breastfeeding medicine visits by telehealth anywhere in Virginia and West Virginia, and in person at my office near Stephens City. If you are struggling and wondering whether a visit is the right fit, reach out and I would be happy to talk with you.
+ view comments . . .