Get to know a lactation consultant
Lactation Consultant Q and A
Deb Fleury, RN is a Certified Lactation Consultant at University Health Lakewood Medical Center. Fleury started her career as a registered nurse, eventually working at Lakewood Family Birthplace.
What's new in lactation?
Because of the infant formula shortage, lactation consultants are getting more calls from moms who are committed to breastfeeding. We might see a mom who's having her third or fourth baby who has never been able to breastfeed, but who is really committed to making it work this time. There are more visits with outpatients (once a mom has gone home after giving birth) and questions from moms about re-lactating, which is when moms who were formula feeding are wanting to build a milk supply.
Does a mother's experience change with each baby?
Definitely. I try to go in with a fresh approach with each mom and say every baby is different and so you'll have a different experience. We want them to know lactation consultants are here for support. We are really focusing on the prenatal education piece. It's really an advantage for them to have some knowledge before giving birth.
Not all moms know the breastfeeding benefits to both mom and baby. During these meetings we learn support is a huge factor. Some pregnant women come in and say, 'no one else in my family has ever chosen to breastfeed' and so we want to wrap our arms around them and let them know we are here to help.
Is seeing a lactation consultant only for moms who are sure they want to breastfeed?
Lactation consultants are here to offer support and answer moms' questions. We'll support them however they want to nourish their babies.
Is there a favorite part of the job?
Yes! I would say that first feeding. When that baby comes out and we place him or her on mom's skin. That first moment. It's just beautiful.