The Lactation Consult
This comprehensive presentation equips birth and lactation professionals with the knowledge and confidence to understand the full scope of an IBCLC’s role and to implement best practices in lactation support from hospital to home. Emphasizing evidence-based care, collaboration, and timely referral, this session walks participants step-by-step through a thorough lactation consult.

Participants will learn to:

• Define the scope of practice and professional responsibilities of the IBCLC

• Describe the Code of Professional Conduct and ethical care standards

• Conduct a comprehensive lactation consult in hospital, home, and office settings

• Identify mothers and babies at risk who need early lactation intervention

• Recognize normal newborn feeding behaviors (including “Night Two” and cluster feeding)

• Assess and support effective latch and milk transfer

• Teach hand expression and appropriate pump use

• Develop collaborative, family-centered care plans

• Implement appropriate follow-up strategies

• Identify when and where to refer within the healthcare team

Key Topics Include:

• Hospital lactation support (Days 1–3)

• Alternatives to bottle supplementation

• Anatomy, latch assessment, and positioning techniques

• Engorgement and early milk supply management

• Weight checks and supply markers at 2 weeks postpartum

• Home visit protocols (private practice vs. community care)

• Office visit structure and documentation

• Communication with pediatric providers and team members

• Community barriers and equity in lactation support

• Evidence-based resources for medication safety and breastfeeding research

Ideal Audience:

• IBCLCs

• CLCs/CLEs

• Nurses (L&D, postpartum, NICU)

• Doulas

• WIC professionals

• Maternal-child healthcare providers

• Students pursuing lactation credentials

This presentation reinforces a team-based approach to breastfeeding care and empowers professionals to provide safe, competent, and compassionate lactation support across diverse care settings.