1. How do I know who I need to see?

If you are a lactating individual and having any challenges on your lactation journey, it is highly recommended to see an IBCLC. We have taken a minimum of 14 undergraduate health science courses at an accredited university or college, 1,000 (or more) of direct clinical treatment hours, have completed at least 90 hours of lactation specific education, and passed clinical boards to obtain IBCLC licensure. This is the most comprehensive and thorough certification attainable in the field of lactation. As your IBCLC, I will also recommend referrals to any other professionals that I think would be beneficial in order to provide you with the most comprehensive care. Your IBCLC is generally regarded as the “team leader”of your care plan.  

2. How do I know if what my baby is doing is concerning or not?

My first recommendation is: always go with your gut. If YOU are feeling something is not right, it will never hurt to reach out and get an opinion from someone who is well-versed and highly educated in infant feeding. Aside from that, my recommendation is any challenge or dysfunction that lasts a week or longer, is worth seeking an evaluation.  

3. Is tethered oral tissues or “tongue tie” something to be concerned about?

The short answer is yes, tongue ties really do is exist and they can absolutely cause significant oral dysfunction that may impact feeding, breathing or speech sound production. Tethered oral tissues can also cause tension patterns and asymmetries throughout the body, not just in the mouth. Do all babies with oral dysfunction have a tongue tie? Absolutely not! Do all babies with tongue tie exhibit oral dysfunction? Absolutely not! If my baby has a tongue tie, does this automatically mean they will need it released? No! This is why it is absolutely crucial to get a differential diagnosis from a skilled practitioner who is well versed in oral function to be able to not only determine if a tie is present, but also determine if that tie is a significant contributing factor in the oral dysfunction. Did you notice that I don’t have “tethered oral tissue” evaluation listed under my services? It is because I am never just evaluating if a tie is present or not. I am always looking at the full picture. Many babies are able to achieve optimal function in spite of an oral restriction, but many do benefit from a frenectomy. This will all be individualized based on your specific baby, their function/needs, and most importantly- what you feel comfortable with!

4. At what point do you recommend starting therapy with transitioning to solids?

My recommendation is if you have been working on solids with either no improvement, worsening issues or full out refusal for more than two weeks, it is a good idea to have an evaluation. Sometimes it can be an easy fix of simply changing the way foods are presented (using different spoons or utensils, changing the bolus size, cutting foods in a different way) and other times there is more deeply rooted dysfunction. We will work together to determine the root cause and formulate a plan!

5. Do you recommend using purées or Baby Led Weaning?

I actually used a combination of both approaches with all 3 of my children.  There is a lot of developmental importance for a baby to be able to use appropriate oral mechanics to close their lips around a spoon, hold the bolus in between their tongue and palate, and use a peristaltic movement to swallow and push the bolus down the esophagus.  This is similar to swallowing milk from the breast or a bottle, but does require more mature function.  It is also important for a baby to be using their jaw to chew in a diagonal or rotary pattern to gain strength to be able to break down foods with more texture, and baby led weaning allows them to explore foods at their own pace/comfort level and helps build positive relationships with food.  I will discuss these both with you and meet you at a place where you feel most comfortable! 

6. How many visits should I expect?

This is challenging to answer, as every patient is different in terms of therapeutic need.  The most average number of visits is about 6, but please remember this can vary.  I will always stay in communication with you about this. 

7. Do you charge me as both IBCLC and SLP?

No!  I am not in network with any insurance plans as SLP, which is why visits for exclusive formula feeders and transitioning to solids are at a private pay rate.  I do not add on any additional fees as SLP for those contracting through The Lactation Network, but travel fees may be added for home visits.  My dual licensure is just an added perk!

8. When is payment due?

Payment (private pay and/or travel fees) is due at the time of service.  You will be asked to provide a credit card when you reserve your appointment time, and the card will only be charged at the time or service or due to the cancellation/no-show policy.