Lactation consultant


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Lactation consultant


A lactation consultant or specialist is often a nurse who has been trained to teach and advise women about breast-feeding. Lactation consultants may be associated with birth units in hospitals.

Lactation consultants are often most helpful for women who:

  • Have never breast-fed before.
  • Have had previous problems breast-feeding.
  • Have a chronic health problem, such as diabetes.
  • Have had breast surgery.
  • Are breast-feeding more than one child.
  • Plan to breast-feed while working outside the home.
  • Need help using a breast pump.
  • Have problems with breast or nipple pain.
  • Have a baby who does not seem to be breast-feeding well.
  • Have a special needs baby, such as one who was born premature or with a health problem that may interfere with breast-feeding.

Credits


Author Jeannette Curtis
Author Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer Patrice Burgess, MD

- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD

- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD

- Family Medicine
Last Updated May 25, 2007

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Last updated: May 25, 2007
Author: Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

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