Top Medical Reasons to Book a Prenatal Lactation Consultation

Breastfeeding is a natural process, but it doesn’t always come naturally. For many expecting parents, early preparation can make all the difference! A prenatal lactation consultation with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) isn’t just helpful—it can be medically important strategy to set yourself and your baby up for breastfeeding success.

Let's explore the top medical reasons to schedule a prenatal lactation consultation before your baby arrives.

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1. History of Breast Surgery or Injury

If you’ve had a breast surgery such as reduction, augmentation, or biopsies, it can impact milk production and milk transfer. A prenatal lactation consultant can assess your medical history, explain what to expect, and help develop a personalized feeding plan.

Pro tip: Early guidance can reduce anxiety and empower you with feeding alternatives if needed.

2. Hormonal Conditions (PCOS, Thyroid Issues, Diabetes and others)

Hormonal imbalances like PCOS, hypothyroidism, or gestational diabetes may interfere with optimal breast development and affect milk supply. A prenatal lactation consultation helps identify potential obstacles and offers strategies to optimize milk production from day one.

3. Previous Breastfeeding Challenges,

If you’ve struggled with breastfeeding in the past—low supply, pain, latch issues—a prenatal session can address reasons for challenges and how to avoid or manage this time around. Learning from past experiences with professional support is key to future success.

4. Flat, Inverted, or Large Nipples

Anatomical variations like flat or inverted nipples can affect latch. Lactation consultants offer techniques, tools (like nipple shields), and positioning strategies tailored to your body. Addressing these concerns before birth can increase your confidence and readiness.

5. Multiples or High-Risk Pregnancy

Expecting twins or more? Carrying multiples or managing a high-risk pregnancy means extra planning for feeding. A prenatal lactation consultation can help you understand how to establish supply for more than one baby and manage the added complexity of your birth and postpartum experience.

6. Planned Cesarean Delivery

Cesarean births can delay milk onset due to the lack of hormonal cues from labor. A lactation consultant can prepare you for early skin-to-skin, initiating milk expression, and pain management that supports breastfeeding even in a surgical birth environment.

7. Anxiety or Emotional Health Concerns

Perinatal anxiety and mood disorders can impact your ability to breastfeed comfortably and confidently. Prenatal lactation consultations offer a calm, nonjudgmental space to ask questions and receive emotional support around feeding expectations and routines.

8. Desire to Combine Breast and Bottle Feeding

If you plan to mix breast and bottle feeding or return to work, a prenatal session can help create a feeding plan that supports milk supply and baby’s ability to switch between breast and bottle with ease.

9. Medical Medications or Conditions

Taking medications or managing chronic conditions like epilepsy, hypertension, or depression? A lactation consultant can coordinate with your healthcare provider to ensure that your medications are compatible with breastfeeding—or help find alternatives.

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What Can I Expect With a Prenatal Lactation Consultation?

The first few hours and days after birth are critical for establishing breastfeeding. Having a plan and a support system in place before you deliver can significantly increase your chances of success.

A prenatal lactation consultation with our Nurse Practitioner/IBCLC typically includes:

• A review of medical history

• A breast exam (if needed)

• Learn hand expression if appropriate

• Feeding goals discussion

• Lab order to screen for underlying medical conditions if desired

• Customized strategies and tools

• Q&A to address your concerns

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Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a first-time parent or navigating a unique medical history, investing in a prenatal lactation consultation gives you the tools, knowledge, and support you need to start your breastfeeding journey with confidence.

Ready to prepare for breastfeeding success? Don’t wait—book your prenatal lactation consultation today and get expert guidance tailored to your unique medical needs. For more info visit: www.advancedlactationcare.com

Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider or lactation professional for personalized guidance.