Mary Clare McCarty - Lactation Consultant

Why see a Lactation Consultant?

Before your baby is born

· You want to learn as much as possible about breastfeeding.
· You had a previous difficult breastfeeding experience.
· You are expecting twins or a baby who maybe sick or premature.
· You have had breast surgery and wonder if it will affect your breastfeeding.
· You have inverted nipples
· You have personal health concerns which may impact on your breastfeeding.

After your baby is born.

· You and your baby are having difficulty breastfeeding.
· You have painful breasts/nipples.
· Your baby is not gaining weight.
· Your baby may have a tongue-tie
· You are concerned how your baby is behaving before/after feeds.
· You are concerned that you have too much/too little milk.
· Your midwife recommends you seek specialist support.
· You and your baby are hospitalised.

As a Lactation Consultant I can:

· Visit you in your home by appointment. Mon-Fri.
· Explain what may have caused a problem.
· Suggest choices to help you correct the problem.
· Correct latch and positioning techniques at the breast.
· Diagnose and treat infection.
· Work with you to decide on a plan of care.
· Suggest supplies or tools you can use.
· Perform, or refer for, a 'frenotomy' to correct a diagnosed tongue-tie.
· Work alongside you to succeed.
· Give you written instructions to follow.
· Provide follow-up phone calls/visits as required to support your success.
· Work co-operatively with your midwife/GP
· Consult other health providers as necessary.
· Prescribe medications in first six weeks following childbirth as I am also a Midwife.

Call me for follow-up support if:

· A problem does not resolve.
· A different problem occurs.
· You find you cannot carry out the plan of care decided.
· You have questions.

There is a fee for service provided.