Your Questions, Answered

  • If feeding feels hard, painful, confusing, or just not how you thought it would be, that’s reason enough to see an IBCLC.

    You don’t need a crisis or a “serious problem.” Many families seek lactation support because something feels off, or because they want reassurance they’re on the right track.

    Consider booking an IBCLC if you’re experiencing:

    • Pain with nursing or pumping

    • Latch issues, or fussiness at the breast

    • Concerns about milk supply or weight gain

    • Engorgement, clogged ducts, mastitis, or nipple damage

    • Stress, tears, or constant Googling at 2 a.m.

    • Transitions like returning to work, bottle refusal, combo feeding, or weaning

    IBCLCs also work preventively during pregnancy, in the early postpartum days, or anytime you want clear, practical guidance instead of trial-and-error advice.

    Feeding support is most helpful early, before frustration turns into burnout.

    You don’t have to power through. You’re allowed to ask for help. I’m here to help you.

  • Every visit is relaxed, collaborative, and centered on your goals. No judgment, no pressure, and definitely no pop quiz. We’ll start by talking through what’s been going on and what you’d like help with, then move into a thorough feeding assessment.

    During a typical visit, we may cover:

    • Your feeding goals and concerns

    • A full feeding observation (breast, bottle, chest, or combo)

    • Positioning and latch support

    • Milk supply, pumping, and/or bottle strategies as needed

    • Infant oral function and feeding mechanics

    • Infant weight checks when appropriate

    You’ll get hands-on, practical support (with your consent), clear explanations of what I’m seeing, and plenty of time to ask questions. There’s no rushing and no pressure to “do it a certain way.” Babies are welcome to cry, fall asleep, poop mid-feeding — all very on brand.

    Before we wrap up, we’ll put together a realistic feeding plan that fits your family and your life (not a 12-step program you’ll never look at again). After the visit, you’ll receive a written care plan and resources so you’re not left trying to remember everything on three hours of sleep.

    The goal isn’t perfection — it’s confidence, clarity, and a feeding plan that actually works for you.

  • You can schedule a visit as soon as you feel you need support—even in the first few days after birth. Early support can help prevent issues from becoming more stressful, but it’s never “too late” to work with a lactation consultant. Prenatal visits are also available.

  • Not much! If possible, have your baby ready to feed during the visit. Gather any feeding supplies you’re using (pump, bottles, nipple shields, etc.) and think about your main questions or concerns. I’ll guide the rest.

  • Yes. Prenatal lactation visits are a great way to prepare for feeding before your baby arrives. We’ll cover what to expect in the early days, how milk production works, common challenges, and how to set yourself up for a smoother start—especially helpful for first-time parents, planned inductions, cesarean births, or previous feeding difficulties.

  • Absolutely. Feeding support isn’t one-size-fits-all. I support breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, combination feeding, and exclusive pumping—without judgment. My goal is to help you feed your baby safely, confidently, and in a way that supports your mental and physical health.

  • Visits take place in your home throughout the Portland, Oregon area. In-home visits allow me to support you in your real feeding environment, using your own space and supplies.

  • While I do not bill insurance directly, I provide a superbill after each visit that you can submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement. Payment is due at the time of the appointment.

    1. Pay for your visit at the time of service

    2. Receive your superbill after your appointment

    3. Log into your insurance member portal or search your insurer’s website for an
      “out-of-network claim form” or “member reimbursement form”

    4. Complete the form and upload or attach your superbill

    5. Submit the claim and wait for processing (usually 2–6 weeks)

    If approved, reimbursement is typically sent directly to you by your insurance company.