LC questions - sorry, this is long

Mrs.Ram

I promise I'll post the birth story soon, but in the meantime, have a few questions about LCs.

Here's the background: I had breast reduction 10 years ago, and have been assuming this whole time that bf'ing would not be possible. I'm still going to give it a try, however. At the hospital, I tried for the first 24 hours, and the baby was interested and actually could latch, but it was seriously the most painful thing I've ever experienced.  My nipples literally turned black (sorry if that's TMI!!). The second LC we saw said to take a break for a few days to let them heal, and I now have a prescription ointment to use to help with healing. I rented a pump and have been trying to use it, but frankly have usually either forgotten or been too exhausted. My milk came in last night, but the question still remains: will it actually come out? This is why I want an LC to come here and help out. If it can, than I'll bf as much as possible (I may not produce enough), if not, I will just formula feed and start to try to get the milk to absorb.

 Here are my questions:

We saw a multitude of LCs at the hospital - do you think they work outside the hospital also (FFX), or they would just answer questions over the phone?

The pediatrician recommended the followig - does anyone have experience with them, or know if they do in-home consultations?
Breastfeeding Center of Greater Washington (Pat Shelly)
Northern Virginia Lactation Center
Mary Bright
Joann Scott
Josephine Tullo

Any other recommendations are also greatly appreciated! Thanks, as always, ladies!

Hey Jellisy

An inexpensive option is the Lactation group at INOVA Fairfax that meets twice a week.  I met the leader of the group when I was at the hospital, she was really nice.  I am certain all the other area hospitals have some similar too.

nolebride

I went to the Breastfeeding Center and had a great experience. I loved having the support of other moms. I went to the free classes and did a private session $90/hr with Pat Shelly at the center. She was great! She helped me get off the nipple shield and honestly it gave me the confidence I needed continue. She will also answer more questions over the phone if other issues pop up after your one-on-one session. The home sessions are $160/hr. Not cheap but I think it's well worth it. Good Luck!

The link to the Center is https://www.breastfeedingcenter.org/

Mrs.Ram

Thanks, ladies! I made an appointment with a consultant to come here from the Breastfeeding Center tomorrow night. Cross your fingers for us!

Temp763151187501242

Good luck, Karen!  One of the moms in my Mamistad group used an LC at the Breastfeeding Center in DC with great results.  Looks like a good place to start!

BridetobeEm

Oh, definitely meet one on one w/an LC.  I met with Josie (Josephine) Tullo at NoVA Lactation Consultants and she was a huge help.  BFing was ridiculously painful for me in the beginning (my nipples bled) and my son had a terrible latch.  But, after a few weeks following her suggestions, things got easier and I've been BFing and pumping for a year now.  GL!

rnin02

I'm glad you found someone to come help you! But tomorrow night is so far away...if you aren't ready to try BF again without your consultation, try to pump at least a few times (if not more). That way you will relieve the discomfort (temporarily anyway) of being engorged and you should probably get your answer if the milk will come out:) plus you will continue your milk production...an empty breasts makes more milk than a full breast. Good luck!