CLC stands for Certified Lactation Counselor. As one might guess, a CLC provides support and guidance to mamas, mamas-to-be, and of course, their babies!
The following are some topics/areas for which a CLC can help:
Prenatal and postpartum counseling: Preparing for factors that may affect breastfeeding and lactation and also helping support through the ups and downs of the breastfeeding experience.
Breastfeeding Support: Latching, positioning, and addressing common breastfeeding challenges such as nipple pain, engorgement, or low milk supply
Promoting Successful Breastfeeding: Helping mothers establish and maintain successful breastfeeding relationships with their infants. By offering evidence-based information and practical tips, they empower mothers to overcome difficulties and achieve their breastfeeding goals.
Preventing and Managing Issues: Preventing and managing common concerns such as poor latch, inadequate milk transfer or supply, insufficient weight gain for baby, nipple or breast pain, and calming a fussy baby
Milk expression and storage: Supporting through pumping and storing milk and ensuring that no precious milk unnecessarily goes to waste!
Strategies for breastfeeding and lactation after returning to work: Supporting mamas as they venture out into the workplace with goals to continue providing breastmilk for their babies.
As anyone who has been a part of the breastfeeding experience can attest, it is not always rainbows and butterflies! Between typical difficulties, unexpected problems, and societal pressures, having SUPPORT and encouragement can make a world of difference! A CLC’s goal is to meet each mom and baby where they are and to provide individualized recommendations for building and extending the breastfeeding relationship for as long as they wish.
As stated on the ALPP website, “CLCs work within a counseling model, understanding that breastfeeding decisions are made by the mother, who may have values and goals different from the counselor.”
CLCs work as part of the health care team, ensuring appropriate referrals and recommendations. CLCs can be found in obstetric and pediatric practice settings, hospitals, public health programs, and private practices. Many CLCs are also mothers, and/or hold additional titles and certifications such as peer counselors, educators, nurses, childbirth educators, doulas, nutritionists, dietitians, midwives, physicians, social workers, public health workers, public administrators, and many others (including Speech/Language Pathologists, of course!).
Overall, the role of a Certified Lactation Counselor is crucial in promoting, supporting, and protecting breastfeeding, and ultimately contributing to the health and well-being of mothers and infants. After breastfeeding my three babies for a total of over 8 years so far, I personally know the struggles that can arise and I can 100% vouch that the support I received in the beginning, and for each of my three children, is what kept me going. My breastfeeding relationships with my babies gave me some of my most treasured connections and memories.
At Latch on to Language, I specialize in working with moms, moms-to-be, and babies. I offer in-home services to clients in Cecil County, MD, and nearby towns/cities in MD, PA, and DE. Additional travel fees apply to locations beyond this area. Virtual sessions are also effective and can be provided to address many lactation concerns.
If your circumstances fit any of the descriptions above or you’d like more information, please reach out to see if Latch on to Language may be a good fit! I look forward to working with you! 🌟
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