Breastfeeding is one of the most natural and beneficial ways to nourish a newborn. It offers countless health benefits for both babies and mothers, including improved immunity for the baby, reduced risk of chronic conditions for the mother, and strengthened bonding between them. However, breastfeeding can come with challenges that require the support and guidance of knowledgeable health professionals.
Fortunately, a variety of health professionals are available to support mothers throughout their breastfeeding journey. These professionals include lactation consultants, pediatricians, obstetricians, midwives, nurses, doulas, and more. Each plays a unique role in ensuring that breastfeeding is successful and sustainable. This article will explore these professionals in detail, their training, how they help, and when to consult them.
1. Lactation Consultants
What They Do:
Lactation consultants are specially trained professionals who assist mothers with all aspects of breastfeeding. They are the go-to experts when a mother experiences breastfeeding difficulties such as latching problems, low milk supply, sore nipples, or concerns about the baby’s weight gain.
Qualifications:
The most recognized certification for lactation consultants is the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). To achieve this credential, individuals must complete extensive education in lactation, clinical hours, and pass a rigorous exam.
How They Help:
- Evaluate latch and positioning
- Identify causes of pain or discomfort
- Provide solutions for low milk supply
- Offer support with breast pumps and milk storage
- Assist with breastfeeding multiples (twins, triplets, etc.)
- Help mothers returning to work
- Offer emotional support during challenging times
When to See One:
Mothers should see a lactation consultant if breastfeeding is painful, if the baby isn’t gaining weight appropriately, or if they have any concerns or questions about the breastfeeding process.
2. Pediatricians
What They Do:
Pediatricians monitor a baby’s growth and development and provide advice to parents about feeding, nutrition, and general health care. They are often one of the first healthcare providers to assess how well breastfeeding is going after the baby is born.
Training:
Pediatricians are medical doctors who specialize in the care of infants, children, and adolescents. Some pediatricians have additional training in breastfeeding medicine or work closely with lactation consultants.
How They Help:
- Monitor weight gain and growth patterns
- Identify feeding problems or signs of malnutrition
- Support mothers in supplementing if medically necessary
- Diagnose medical conditions in babies that may affect breastfeeding (e.g., tongue tie)
When to Consult:
At regular well-baby checkups or any time there are concerns about a baby’s health, feeding habits, or growth.
3. Obstetricians and Gynecologists (OB/GYNs)
What They Do:
OB/GYNs care for mothers before, during, and after pregnancy. While their primary focus is on maternal health, they are crucial in promoting breastfeeding from the start.
Training:
OB/GYNs are physicians with specialized training in women’s reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth.
How They Help:
- Encourage breastfeeding during prenatal care
- Identify maternal health issues that may affect milk production (e.g., hormonal imbalances, thyroid issues)
- Provide postpartum care that supports breastfeeding (e.g., managing pain or infections like mastitis)
When to See One:
During pregnancy and postpartum visits, especially if there are complications or concerns about milk supply or breast health.
4. Midwives
What They Do:
Midwives provide care throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. They offer a more personalized and holistic approach to maternal and newborn health, including strong support for breastfeeding.
Training:
Midwives may be Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs), Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs), or other types depending on their education and licensure. Many have in-depth training in breastfeeding support.
How They Help:
- Offer hands-on breastfeeding assistance immediately after birth
- Provide postpartum visits that include breastfeeding evaluations
- Offer emotional support and empowerment to new mothers
- Recognize and refer more complex lactation issues to specialists
When to Consult:
Throughout pregnancy and during the early postpartum days, particularly for home births or birthing center deliveries.
5. Nurses (Especially Maternity, NICU, and Postpartum Nurses)
What They Do:
Nurses play a critical role in helping new mothers initiate breastfeeding, especially in the hospital setting. They are often the first line of support in the hours after birth.
Training:
Registered Nurses (RNs) working in maternity, labor and delivery, or postpartum units usually receive breastfeeding education as part of their training. Some pursue additional lactation certification (such as CLC – Certified Lactation Counselor).
How They Help:
- Assist with the first breastfeeding session
- Provide guidance on positioning and latching
- Encourage skin-to-skin contact
- Educate parents on feeding cues
- Support breastfeeding in special care nurseries (e.g., NICU)
When to Consult:
Immediately after delivery and during hospital stays, as well as during postpartum checkups or home health visits.
6. Doulas (Postpartum Doulas in Particular)
What They Do:
Doulas are non-medical professionals who provide emotional and physical support during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. Postpartum doulas are especially valuable in helping mothers rest, recover, and establish breastfeeding.
Training:
Doulas are trained through certification programs offered by organizations such as DONA International, CAPPA, or other regional programs. While they are not healthcare providers, many have extensive breastfeeding education.
How They Help:
- Offer encouragement and reassurance
- Help with latching and positioning
- Monitor for signs of feeding problems and suggest professional referrals
- Provide support during night feedings and long nursing sessions
- Reduce stress and fatigue, which supports milk production
When to Consult:
Postpartum doulas are most helpful in the first few weeks after birth when mothers are establishing breastfeeding and adjusting to newborn care.
7. Public Health Nurses and WIC Counselors
What They Do:
Public health nurses and professionals working in the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program provide community-based breastfeeding support. WIC, in particular, offers breastfeeding education, peer counselors, and access to lactation services for eligible families.
Training:
These professionals are trained in maternal and child health and may have specific credentials in lactation counseling.
How They Help:
- Educate about breastfeeding benefits and techniques
- Provide breast pumps and supplies when needed
- Connect families with local resources and support groups
- Offer ongoing support through phone calls or in-person visits
When to Consult:
During pregnancy and throughout the breastfeeding period, especially for those looking for low-cost or community-based support.
8. Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs)
What They Do:
While not often associated with breastfeeding, some SLPs specialize in infant feeding and swallowing. They are involved when a baby has difficulties that may interfere with breastfeeding.
Training:
SLPs hold a master’s degree and licensure in speech-language pathology. Those working with infants have specific training in oral-motor development and feeding therapy.
How They Help:
- Assess oral function, suck-swallow coordination, and muscle tone
- Diagnose issues like tongue tie, cleft palate, or oral aversions
- Work with other professionals to develop feeding plans
- Support transitions between breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, and solid foods
When to Consult:
If a baby shows signs of feeding difficulty, such as gagging, choking, refusing the breast, or failure to thrive.
9. Chiropractors and Bodyworkers
What They Do:
Some chiropractors and bodyworkers (such as craniosacral therapists or osteopaths) specialize in treating infants with physical tension or misalignments that affect feeding.
Training:
These professionals have advanced training in working with infants, with additional certifications in pediatric or perinatal care.
How They Help:
- Address tension in the neck, jaw, or body that affects latch
- Improve baby’s comfort during feeding
- Complement the work of lactation consultants
When to Consult:
When a baby has trouble latching or seems uncomfortable during feeds, especially if other interventions haven’t helped.
10. Peer Support Groups and Breastfeeding Counselors
What They Do:
Peer counselors and trained volunteers, such as those affiliated with La Leche League or Breastfeeding USA, provide community-based, mother-to-mother support.
Training:
Many peer counselors complete breastfeeding education programs, and while not medical professionals, they are often experienced breastfeeding mothers trained to offer basic help and encouragement.
How They Help:
- Share practical tips and personal experiences
- Offer group support and social connection
- Provide encouragement during difficult periods
- Help with normal breastfeeding questions
When to Join:
Anytime during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Support groups are especially helpful for ongoing encouragement, building confidence, and connecting with other mothers.
Conclusion
Breastfeeding, while natural, often requires a village of support. Fortunately, mothers have access to a diverse team of health professionals who can assist at every stage — from pregnancy through the weaning process. Each professional brings unique knowledge and skills that contribute to a holistic, supportive approach to breastfeeding.
Knowing who to turn to, and when, can empower mothers to navigate challenges, celebrate successes, and nurture the special bond that breastfeeding fosters. Whether it’s the technical expertise of a lactation consultant, the medical guidance of a pediatrician, or the hands-on support of a doula, these professionals play a vital role in helping mothers and babies thrive.