What does a visit look like?
Are you wondering what a lactation visit might consist
of for breastfeeding or pumping moms?
1. Wash my hands
After I arrive at the home I'll introduce myself and bring in my luggage, then I will ask to wash my hands. It's very important to not share my germs with you and the baby!
3. Infant oral assessment
Then I will complete a full 12 point oral assessment including: feeling the palate for any abnormalities and the shape of it, suck assessment, tongue movement, frenulum placement and how tight it may be. I will show you the floor of the mouth and what happens when we elevate the tongue. I will wear a head lamp light when assessing and wear gloves or finger cots.
I will also assess the cheeks and the padding needed for a proper suck. I will look for any mouth trauma or lip blisters as well. I'll make sure the baby has moist/pink mucous membranes, elastic skin, and an overall well appearance.
5. Show me you can do it on the second breast, if baby is willing.
Lets use the new tips and tricks and put them into play. You got this, I'll be here to watch and assist as needed. If you are pumping we will look at your pump and bottle/pacis and discuss how to properly pump and pace feed.
2. Set up the scale
Secondly, I will set up my scale if there is any question as to whether the baby is appropriately gaining weight. We will do a pre and post feed weight. We will get the baby undressed and in a clean diaper before the first weight. We can find out how many ounces/grams the baby is consuming on each breast. I will need a very sturdy surface, and I usually ask to use a countertop. The infant scale is a top of the line TANITA, it is very sensitive and most accurate on a sturdy surface.
4. Show me how you feed the baby (or how you pump)
I like to see what a normal feed looks like. Tell me what you are feeling. I will watch the latch, discuss tips and tricks. The position or the latch may need to be adjusted, I'll help you with this. We will work through any problems you may be having and then use them on the second breast as well.
If you are pumping we will size your nipples and see how your pump works in relation to modes, suck strength, length of pump sessions, and much more.
6. Look at the whole picture including infants' skin and discuss gut health if necessary
We will review all the details and come up with a plan of care together. I will write down notes and give you a copy while I am in the home. I will also write the notes down on your EMR MilkNotes patient portal for your review or to show your provider. If a follow up is needed right away we can schedule in the home, otherwise you can schedule your follow up online at my booking link. After our first visit we usually follow up in 1-2 weeks.
Prior to the IBCLC visit
Scheduling, Payment, and History
After you contact me, I will send you the necessary information or links via email:
- On the "contact me" form you will inform me about your reason for the visit.
- You'll self-schedule in home, office, or telehealth
- You will be sent an invoice via Square if your insurance doesn't cover visits
You will then be asked to fill out an electronic medical record to briefly record you and your infant's medical history and your contact information.
Once everything is ready to go I'll see you at our appointment!