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Mother Baby Bonding

FAQ

Here you will find some frequently asked questions in regards to what an IBCLC does, what a visit might entail, insurance coverage, etc. If you have any additional questions please do not hesitate to use the form under the "Contact" tab.

What is an IBCLC?

An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant® (IBCLC®) is a health care professional who specializes in the clinical management of breastfeeding. An IBCLC is certified by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners®, Inc. under the direction of the US National Commission for Certifying Agencies. An IBCLC works in a wide variety of health care settings, including hospitals, pediatric offices, public health clinics, and private practice.

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But most importantly an IBCLC is your new support system. Someone you can lean on via consultations, text, phone calls, or Email to get you through this next chapter of your life by offering professional and evidence based support! 

What can you help me with?

Skills that I specialize in as an experienced practitioner, and that we may address during your consultation, include but are not limited to all of the following:

  • Latch and position 

  • Weight gain concerns 

  • Tongue and lip tie concerns

  • Low milk supply

  • Engorgement/oversupply/plugged ducts

  • Frequent feeding

  • Sore nipples

  • Late preterm and post NICU support

  • Feeding multiples

  • Induced (adoptive) lactation

  • Back to work planning

  • Chestfeeding

  • Pump fitting

  • Prenatal planning

  • Bottle refusal 

..And more! 

Will my insurance cover this?

In March of 2010 the Affordable Care Act was signed into law, requiring insurance companies to cover preventative care for women, including lactation support. Your insurance should cover the cost of my services, but each insurance company differs in their reqirements and process of coverage. I encourage you to contact your insurance provider to ask if lactation services are covered. If I do not accept your insurance you will be asked to pay for the consultation in full and a "superbill" form will be provided to you for submission to receive potential reimbursement. Currently I am in network with Aetna, Independence Blue Cross, and Amerihealth, and have the ability to bill these insurances directly. 

How can I prepare for my consultation?

When preparing for a new client consultation, I won't ask much of you. First and foremost it is important to me that you show up just how you are. It is my mission to fully meet you where you are comfortable. I understand the challenges of transitioning into new parenthood and/or adding a new addition to a growing family. At The Nest and during home visits we fully embrace pajamas, messes, dirty dishes, excited siblings, etc! 

 

I ask that you do your best to feed your baby about 1.5-2 hours before our meeting time. In addition you can also plan to bring your pump and any parts, nipple shields (if you are currently using them), a prepared bottle (if you are supplementing), and a list of any questions you may have!​
 

What should I expect during a lactation consultation?

An Initial consultation at The Nest or in your home generally lasts about 90 minutes and may include but not limited to what is listed here:

  • A thorough exam of baby, including an intraoral evaluation

  • A verbal and physical exam of the parent and baby

  • An accurate weight down to the gram, including a transfer weight to assess what baby is transferring during a feeding 

  • An in depth assessment of a feeding at the breast and/or bottle feeding depending on the issue in question 

  • Latch and positioning support and education 

  • Acknowledgement of all questions parents may have

  • Referrals to providers in the area as needed

  • A thorough and evidence based plan of care including at home stretches and a plan to implement for results at home

  • A detailed report sent to your pediatrician and/or provider of choice who may be treating your baby additionally.

Once our initial consult commences you will have access to me via E-mail and your patient portal for any follow up questions you may have. I will follow up with you within 24-48 hours of our visit to check-in. Will schedule follow-up visits as needed.

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