Frequently Asked Questions About Lactation Support
Parents often have questions – especially in the early days of feeding.
Here you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions families ask before and after scheduling care. If you don’t see your question here, you’re always welcome to reach out.
Before Booking
What do you need from me prior to the visit?
No intake forms are required. History, goals, and concerns are discussed together during the visit so care can be fully personalized to you and your baby.
Will insurance cover the visit?
Insurance coverage is available through third-party networks. Enrollment must be completed prior to the visit. Confirmation of coverage will be sent via email to both parent and provider.
Please note: I am an in-network Anthem provider. Patients must pay for the service of the consultation and request reimbursement from Anthem.
If coverage is not available, visits are private pay.
Do I need a referral to schedule the visit?
No referral is required.
In the First Few Weeks Postpartum
How often should I be feeding my baby?
Feeding frequency varies depending on age, weight, and individual needs. Guidance is always tailored rather than based on rigid schedules. However, newborn breastfeeding patterns can be 8-15 times in 24 hours. Feeds can last from 5 to 60 minutes. This pattern is newborn specific and will evolve over time to be efficient and consistent. Typically, milestones are felt at three, six, and twelve weeks.
How much milk does my baby need at this stage?
During the First Visit
What happens during an in-home lactation visit?
Visits last 90-120 minutes. They include a review of feeding goals, history, assessment of both mother and baby, observation of feeding, and individualized guidance. When appropriate, infant weight will be checked before and after feeding to assess milk transfer. Feeding and treatment plans are established and reviewed.
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I was told my baby has a tongue tie.
Oral restrictions will be assessed and evaluated at the time of our visit. I will review the implications, signs, symptoms, and treatment course. Oral restrictions have an impact on an infant's body as a whole. This may or may not include an additional evaluation by any of the following; a chiropractor, an occupational therapist, a speech language pathologist, or a pediatric dentist.
When do you recommend a follow-up visit?
Follow-up visits are recommended based on individual needs. Most families benefit from at least two visits, with many choosing ongoing support as feeding evolves.
Virtual Visits
Do you offer virtual lactation consultations?
Yes. Virtual consultations are available statewide in Virginia and beyond.
What are virtual visits best suited for?
Virtual visits are ideal for questions related to pumping routines, returning to work, and general feeding guidance.
What are virtual visits not recommended for?
Virtual visits are not recommended for concerns involving poor infant weight gain, low milk supply, nipple pain, breastfeeding positioning, or infant oral dysfunction.
If you’re unsure whether a virtual visit is appropriate, guidance can be provided.
Logistics & Communication
How do I pay for the visit?
Accepted payment methods include cash, check, Venmo, and debit card. FSA and HSA cards are accepted. Debit card payments are processed through Square and include a 5% processing fee.
What if I don’t see my insurance listed?
If insurance is not accepted, the visit will be private pay. A superbill will be provided for possible reimbursement through your insurance carrier.
How do I get in touch with you?
Communication is handled via email. If a phone conversation is needed, it can be requested by email. Texting is not used for clinical questions or concerns.
What if I reach a crisis point?
All crisis points have solutions. Support is available, and a phone conversation can be scheduled when needed.
Care Philosophy & Support
My care is grounded in honoring both parent and baby, with the goal of providing a calm, safe, and informed feeding journey. I do not believe that one feeding method is the way. My philosophy is to honor the parent. To honor the parent, is to honor the child. When we support this relationship, we build confidence, attunement, and we strengthen the bond that is our birthright. To love, to feel loved, and to listen to our hearts.