A Breastfeeding Counsellor (BFC) is similar to a Lactation Consultant (LC), it just depends where the person did their training and assessment. Both courses are extensive, take several years to complete and cover numerous aspects of breastfeeding in great detail. Very often, BFCs and LCs have far greater practical breastfeeding knowledge and experience than other medical professionals.
BFCs trained by the NCT in the UK (as I am) need to have breastfed at least one child for a minimum of 6 months before applying for the course. The course takes at least 2 years. BFCs are trained to offer support and information about a wide variety of breastfeeding issues.
Beware of imposters: there are many people who have done only short courses on breastfeeding and many more who are happy just to give you their opinion! If you plan to see a BFC or LC you should check that they actually possess the relevant qualifications.
Why might I need a breastfeeding counsellor?
There are numerous reasons for contacting a Breastfeeding Counsellor. If you are unsure, just ask.
In addition to the list on the home page, people may seek a Breastfeeding Counsellor for the following reasons:
- To discuss a specific breastfeeding issue.
- Just to talk things over with an experienced counsellor to see how things are going or to express concerns.
- To obtain further information about a breastfeeding issue you have discussed with a medical professional (doctor, midwife, health nurse).
What will happen during a phone call or meeting?
I will ask you for information about your concern. Any details will be helpful. I will also ask about your baby (age, about the birth, weight gain/loss, number of wet and dirty nappies per day etc.). I may ask about your feelings surrounding the issue. If appropriate, it may help for me to watch your baby feeding. I will not touch you or the baby unless requested by you, the mother.
Once I have all the information from you I will then suggest ways that we could approach the issue that may be helpful. I will always keep your wishes and ideals in mind and we will work together on a solution tailored for your situation.
Can't I just see a doctor instead?
If you suspect a medical problem rather than a breastfeeding issue then you should see your doctor. A medical problem may be that you have a breast infection requiring antibiotics, or that your baby is undernourished. Once diagnosed, I may be able to help with positioning, for example, to help prevent further problems in the future. If you are unsure whether you need to see a doctor, I am happy to talk things over with you first.
A breastfeeding issue is often better addressed by a Breastfeeding Counsellor or Lactation Consultant who has had extensive training in breastfeeding issues and also has the time to spend with a mother and baby to thoroughly address any issues.
I can recognise breastfeeding problems and can suggest ways to help them. For example, I know what a baby looks like when it is breastfeeding successfully and I can suggest small changes to improve milk transfer and I can assess whether your milk supply is too low or high and whether the baby is getting milk when he/she feeds. I am also a counsellor and can empathise with the way a breastfeeding mother may feel and help her to decide what is best for her and her baby.
Will anyone else find out I have called?
All information you share with me will be treated as confidential, just as in a doctor's consultation.
Can my husband or mother call?
In order to properly assess most breastfeeding issues, I will need specific information about how breastfeeding actually feels. For this reason, it is best if the mother herself can speak to me. If this is not possible I am happy to speak to other people closely involved.
I am trying to call but can't get through
I may be busy or on another call. Please try again later or send me an email (see the 'Contact me' page). I check my emails regularly.
Copyright© Megan Oxberry 2010
