FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Appointments
When do you offer private lactation visits/services?
Every week is different – We really don’t have set days and times – Our consultants manage their own schedules but you may book an appointment yourself by clicking here.
Choose a category
Pick a Service
Book your appointment
Payment is expected at the time of booking your appointment, UNLESS you are pre-approved by Lactation Network. They will send you an email quickly after you have filled out the form, letting you know if you qualify for free visits.
Are you unsure about which service is best for you?
Do you have questions before booking your appointment?
If you need help booking an appointment, Click here to fill out a brief intake form… we will contact you within 24 hours to help you set up an appointment. If your need is more urgent, contact us via email at [email protected]
Payment questions?
If your visit is not covered through Lactation Network, then payment is expected at the time of BOOKING your appointment.
We accept major credit cards, HSA and Flex Spending Account cards.
We can provide a Superbill/Receipt so that YOU may submit it to your insurance company for possible reimbursement.
Are consults covered by insurance?
Yes and No.
According to the Affordable Care Act, all of these services must be covered 100% without a copay.
Sadly, in Indiana and almost every other state, there are loopholes that allow insurance companies to deny this coverage/reimbursement. It’s a good idea to call your insurance company to see exactly what they cover prior to your appointment. We expect payment at the time of appointment scheduling (or just prior to the time of services rendered). We accept major credit cards. We also accept HSA cards.
We do NOT deal directly with insurance companies.
We will provide you with a Superbill and receipt
You may submit these to your insurance company for possible reimbursement.
Sorry, there is no guarantee if or how much you will be reimbursed.
This procedure is the norm across much of the USA.
What is Lactation Network? Will they cover my visits for FREE?
We have partnered (connected) with Lactation Network! They are a company that helps you to connect with us. They will check to see if your visits are covered by insurance - before your actual visits. If they are covered you do not need to pay us prior to the visit.
Once you fill out this brief form, they will be in touch with you the same day and let you know how to proceed.
Note: If you are are NOT eligible through this network, you will need to pay for our services at the time of booking. We will provide a Superbill (receipt) to you after the visit - so that you may submit it to your insurance company for possible reimbursement.
Do you have a Cancelation Policy?
Yes, we have one. Here’s the scoop…
Cancelation and Refund Policy
Payment is expected at the time of BOOKING the appointment.
You will receive a full refund if the scheduled appointment is canceled 48 hours (or more) before the appointment time.
If it is NOT canceled or rescheduled within 48 hours, NO REFUND will be issued.
If circumstances arise, that the lactation consultants need to reschedule with you and they are UNABLE to do so in a reasonable amount of time (with one of the consultants) you will be REFUNDED the entire amount of paid money for services not rendered.
Please note we only have so many visits per week available - and scheduling conflicts cause problems for families needing private appointments.
Every effort will be made on our part to keep your scheduled appointments.
PLEASE NOTE: As soon as you book your appointment, we will send you a consent form, a cancelation policy, and a detailed intake form. The sooner you complete and sign these forms, the better prepared we are to begin caring for you and baby. If these forms are not completed in a timely manner, you are at risk of losing your appointment and all your money paid.
Who’s Who
What is an IBCLC?
From the International Board of Lactation Examiners:
International Board Certified Lactation Consultants function and contribute as members of the maternal-child health team. They provide care in a variety of settings, while making appropriate referrals to other health professionals and community support resources. Working together with mothers, families, policymakers and society, the IBCLC provides expert breastfeeding and lactation care, promotes changes that support breastfeeding and helps reduce the risks of not breastfeeding.
IBCLCs have the duty to protect, promote and support breastfeeding by:
- Acting as an advocate for breastfeeding as the child-feeding norm.
- Educating families, health professionals and the community about breastfeeding and human lactation.
- Providing comprehensive, skilled care and evidence-based information for breastfeeding and human lactation, from preconception to weaning, for breastfeeding families.
- Facilitating the development of policies which protect, promote and support breastfeeding.
How does an IBCLC differ from other breastfeeding support?
IBCLC is the only board certification in lactation support. We spend many years qualifying to sit for a comprehensive board exam. When breastfeeding is complicated, the IBCLC is the best allied health professional to address breastfeeding specifically and may suggest other models of care by various medical professionals.
The IBCLC is the highest GOLD STANDARD of credentials in the lactation world.
Some of us are also LICENSED nurses. (LPN, RN)
There are other “lactation helpers” in the Lactation World, with a variety of alphabet soup letters behind their names. Some have more hands on experience than others. All have some training or coursework. But the IBCLC is best prepared to help you with complex issues.
Other breastfeeding support people certainly provide a much needed service. Some may work in free Breastfeeding Support Groups through local hospitals or WIC clinics to provide some brief assessments and weight checks. Although it has value, this venue does not allow for a thorough functional assessment of both mother and baby, especially if there are COMPLEX feeding issues.
La Leche League and similar WIC peer lactation supporters, groups, and meetings are fantastic sources of moral support and information during the normal course of breastfeeding. However, if you need more one-on-one support, have significant challenges, or are feeling like you can't get your medical providers on the same page, a private IBCLC appointment should be considered. All you have to do is schedule it. You don’t need a referral.
Finding a breastfeeding support group - at a local hospital, on Facebook, or through La Leche League is very important. Mingling with and learning from other parents who are currently or have recently been where you are is invaluable! La Leche League Leaders and volunteer lactation support people are often well-informed mothers with some training.
But sometimes you may need more assistance. That’s why we are here to serve you. It’s our joy to help you navigate through the twists and turns of breastfeeding a baby or a toddler.
An IBCLC is a clinical professional. We take a full medical history on both mother and baby. We may send a written report to physicians if needed. We like to collaborate with your physicians. You are the parent and deserve to have as much information as possible so that you may make informed decisions regarding your child’s nutrition.
Where can I find a list of local BF support groups?
Right HERE!
Memorial Hospital South Bend, IN
Breastfeeding Support Services 574- 647-3475
Call for details about breastfeeding support groups and private visits.
St Joseph Regional Medical Center Mishawaka, IN
Call 574.335.4127 or email any of your questions to [email protected]
Elkhart Hospital Elkhart, IN
Call 574-294-2621 to ask about lactation support services
Milk Guide Breastfeeding Center
Free Support Group
10775 McKinley Hwy
Osceola, IN 46561
Contact Kristen
[email protected]
574-334-7294
What is WIC?
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children is a federal assistance program of the Food and Nutrition Service of the United States Department of Agriculture for healthcare and nutrition of low-income pregnant women, breastfeeding women, and children under the age of five.
Click here to learn more: https://fns.usda.gov/wic/wic-eligibility-requirements
Where is the local WIC office located?
South Bend Office Location
325 N. Lafayette Blvd.
South Bend, IN 46601
Office Phone Number 574-647-2100
What about La Leche League Group meetings?
LLL USA is committed to helping families reach their nursing goals. Leaders are trained parent volunteers who offer free information and support to help you. Meetings are free to attend and open to those with breastfeeding, pumping, and human milk feeding questions or concerns.
Click here to find a group near you! https://lllusa.org/locator/
All in-person meetings have been canceled or moved to an online platform due to concerns over the spread of coronavirus/COVID-19.
There are many virtual meetings. You might find an online meeting that works for you at https://facebook.com/pg/LaLecheLeagueUSA/events/.
What’s a Dyad?
For breastfeeding to start and continue, the newborn must be able to suck, swallow, and breathe; the mother must be able and willing to let her infant breastfeed; and surroundings must support the biological unit: the mother–baby dyad.
A dyad involves two people in a unique relationship.
It occurs over a length of time and is interactive.
It is intense and intimate.
What’s a Doula?
A certified, trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to a mother before, during and shortly after childbirth to help her achieve the healthiest, most satisfying experience possible. She is paid by the parents. Countless scientific trials examining doula care demonstrate remarkably improved physical and psychological outcomes for both mother and baby. Doulas have a positive impact on the well-being of the entire family! https://dona.org/
What’s a Midwife?
From The American College of Nurse Midwives:
Midwifery as practiced by certified nurse-midwives (CNMs®) and certified midwives (CMs®) encompasses a full range of primary health care services for women from adolescence beyond menopause. These services include the independent provision of primary care, gynecologic and family planning services, preconception care, care during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, care of the normal newborn during the first 28 days of life, and treatment of male partners for sexually transmitted infections. Midwives provide initial and ongoing comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. They conduct physical examinations; prescribe medications including controlled substances and contraceptive methods; admit, manage, and discharge patients; order and interpret laboratory and diagnostic tests, and order the use of medical devices. Midwifery care also includes health promotion, disease prevention, and individualized wellness education and counseling. These services are provided in partnership with women and families in diverse settings such as ambulatory care clinics, private offices, community and public health systems, homes, hospitals, and birth centers.
Learn more: https://midwife.org/About-Midwives
Who does body work?
Several different professionals and parents too can do body work.
Chiropractic Care Performed by a licensed chiropractor, ideally one which specializes in infant care does gentle, mild manual adjustments of baby’s spine, neck, or other skeletal structures.
Craniosacral Therapy (CST) Performed by various providers such as chiropractor, licensed massage therapist, IBCLC, DO/MD, physical therapist. “ CST is a gentle, hands-on method of evaluating and enhancing the functioning of a physiological body system called the craniosacral system - comprised of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord.” (From Upledger Institute)
Occupational Therapy (OT) Performed by an occupational therapist.
Physical Therapy (PT) Performed by a physical therapist.
Doctor of Osteopath (DO) Osteopathy is a type of alternative medicine that emphasizes physical manipulation of the body's muscle tissue and bones. Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) techniques are most commonly used to treat musculoskeletal issues. Osteopathic medicine is a "whole person" approach to medicine—treating the entire person rather than just the symptoms. With a focus on preventive health care, DOs help patients develop attitudes and lifestyles that don't just fight illness, but help prevent it, too.
Infant Massage Performed by a licensed massage therapist. Use to assist baby in loosening of tight muscles in the neck and jaw to allow for a larger range of motion or less discomfort. Parents can also learn safe methods of infant massage.
Tummy Time Performed by a parent or caretaker at home. Tummy time can be beneficial due to relaxing tightness in the jaw, neck, and/or mouth. It can allow baby to practice range of motion with the neck. Simply place the baby on their tummy on the floor (or on a supervised, padded raised surface). If baby shows discomfort or signs the baby does not wish to be in tummy time, roll baby out of tummy position and pick up baby to comfort. Tummy time should be fun and enjoyable. Consider eye level eye contact with baby, songs, or games to keep baby engaged in tummy time. Work up to 3 x a day, 10 minutes sessions, longer if baby enjoys it.
Baby on parent chest does not count as tummy time, it is resistance against a firm surface that assists in muscle development. That's very hard to accomplish when the child is lying on your chest. Remember that tummy time is more than just flat head prevention.
Bottle Feeding
What about formula?
Sometimes infant formula is medically necessary. For example, if a mother chooses not to breastfeed, is unable to breastfeed her baby or if mother’s milk supply is low. If baby needs to be supplemented, remember some breast milk is better than none. We will make every effort to help you meet your personal goals. If you want or need to supplement with formula, we are able to assist you (along with your healthcare team) so your baby will grow and thrive.
What’s the best way to mix formula?
It’s so very important to READ labels and mix powdered formula with water as specifically directed on the can. Powdered formula is not sterile, therefore it is recommended to BOIL WATER prior to mixing. Not mixing it exactly as recommended is unsafe. Diluting formula too much is unsafe. Adding extra formula to water or adding oatmeal to formula is unsafe, unless there is a specific reason and a DOCTOR order to do so.
Can I mix my breastmilk with formula?
Pay close attention to instructions by your pediatrician and lactation consultant. If you mix your pumped breastmilk with PREPARED formula (not straight up powder) it will be easier on baby’s tummy. Be sure that the formula is properly mixed with boiled water PRIOR to adding your breastmilk to it.
What about giving my breastfed baby bottles?
We can help with this too. Every situation is unique, depending on specific needs and goals. If you are exclusively breastfeeding - we do recommend that you offer your baby an occasional bottle of your pumped milk at the approximate age of 4 weeks. This is when you should start pumping as well (unless there is a need to do so earlier). Giving baby 1 bottle a day – or every other day- is a game changer if you need to run errands alone, have a date night planned, or plan to return to work or school at some point. Babies usually prefer milk straight from the tap so introducing a bottle is wise for baby and the caregiver. Bottle battles are no fun – but we can help, no matter the age of baby.
Tongue Ties
What if I suspect my baby has oral restrictions? Such as tongue tie?
We can help by performing a thorough assessment and by teaching you suck training. We evaluate appearances, symptoms and oral function of the dyad (both mom and baby). We do NOT make a diagnosis, but rather give you resources to have baby properly evaluated by a skilled dentist/physician. Should your baby indeed have oral restrictions, we can help with pre and post procedure suck training. Feeding issues may be very complex if there are ties. We collaborate together in a team approach to reach optimal feeding function. Babies will often compensate in order to “get food” – but compensations are NOT competencies. We all want babies to thrive – not just survive. Did you know that most states have a Facebook Support Group just for this very thing? Indiana Tongue and Lip Tie Support Group have 3.1 thousand members!
Are there any books or educational recommendations on this TONGUE TIE topic?
Yes! For parents and professionals. Here are a few favorites:
Book- Tongue Tied by Dr Richard Baxter (all proceeds given to charity) https://tonguetieal.com/
Book - SOS 4 TOTS by Dr Lawrence Kotlow https://kiddsteeth.com/
Dr Bobby Ghaheri (ENT) worldwide expert - has a great website and blog
https://drghaheri.squarespace.com/
IATP International Association Tongue-tie Professionals tonguetieprofessionals.org
Why would my baby need BODY WORK? What is it?
Bodywork can be recommended for various reasons. A few examples include TOT (lip/tongue/buccal ties), assisted delivery such as forceps or vacuum, difficulty latching, baby preferring head movement to one side only.
The goal of a bodywork referral is to assist in baby’s ability to move their head, neck, jaw, or other body areas. The relaxation of areas such as the neck and jaw allow for baby to obtain a wider gape therefore a deeper latch to assist in optimal breastfeeding and transfer of milk. Imagine what babies go through in pregnancy, labor and delivery. Baby’s central nervous system (CNS) may need to be regulated or healed by one of the following methods.
Pumping & Milk Storage
Where can I find up to date pumping and storage info?
CDC guidelines are the most up to date
https://cdc.gov/breastfeeding/recommendations/handling_breastmilk.htm
Return To Work
I’m planning on returning to work. Where can I find Workplace information?
U.S. Dept of Health and Human Services:
https://womenshealth.gov/supporting-nursing-moms-work/what-law-says-about-breastfeeding-and-work
What are the Indiana State Laws concerning breastfeeding?
Ind. Code § 16-35-6 (2003) allows a woman to breastfeed her child anywhere the law allows her to be.
Ind. Code § 5-10-6-2 and § 22-2-14-2 (2008) provide that state and political subdivisions shall provide for reasonable paid breaks for an employee to express breast milk for her infant, make reasonable efforts to provide a room or other location, other than a toilet stall, where the employee can express breast milk in private and make reasonable efforts to provide for a refrigerator to keep breast milk that has been expressed. The law also provides that employers with more than 25 employees must provide a private location, other than a toilet stall, where an employee can express the employee's breast milk in private and if possible to provide a refrigerator for storing breast milk that has been expressed.
Medications and Breastfeeding
What about MEDICATIONS and breastfeeding?
Most medications are compatible with breastfeeding.
Please do your homework. Or ask us!
A very common question is whether you may continue breastfeeding during antibiotic treatment of a mastitis breast infection. Yes, 99% of the time, YES continue to breastfeed!
Check out these resources to look up medications.
Find out more at Infantrisk.com
call 1-806-352-2519
MommyMeds App
Infant CPR First Aid
Where can I find an infant CPR class?
Check out this affordable, on-line course
First Aid for the Infant and Toddler Years
Attachment Parenting
What is Baby Wearing?
So many good reasons to baby wear!!
But please do your homework. Seek out instructions on how to do it safely.
Michiana Babywearers is a local FACEBOOK Group (500+ members)
Can I hold my baby too much?
You can't spoil a baby! Contrary to popular myth, it's impossible for parents to hold or respond to a baby too much, child development experts say. Infants need constant loving attention to give them the firm foundation to grow emotionally, physically and intellectually. But do give yourself a break and spend time caring for yourself too. Allow trusted family and friends to have some snuggle time while you do something for you.
What is Attachment Parenting?
Attachment Parenting (AP) is a parenting philosophy that proposes methods aiming to promote the attachment of parent and infant not only by maximal parental empathy and responsiveness but also by continuous bodily closeness and touch. The term attachment parenting was coined by the American pediatrician William Sears.
From API: The truth is... when we strengthen families, we nurture and fulfill our children's need for trust, respect, and affection, and ultimately provide a lifelong foundation for healthy, enduring relationships.
API promotes parenting practices that create strong, healthy emotional bonds between children and their parents. For life. So they can take those bonds with them into their adult lives and share them with their children. And their children can do the same. A life cycle of compassion and connection. https://attachmentparenting.org/
How long should I nurse my baby? Months? Years?
Your breastfeeding journey is your breastfeeding journey. We are here to support you, your goals, and your baby in this journey. It’s best to have short and long term goals. Sometimes it is literally just one day at a time, or even one hour at a time! No kidding, the early days and weeks can be very difficult – especially if this is your first baby! Be assured that we can help you find a routine (not necessarily a schedule). Babies eat frequently on demand in the first 4 weeks to ensure a good milk supply for the whole year. We advise you to have long term goals, but just take it 1 month at a time for now. The longer you nurse your baby – the better as far as optimal growth, development and immunity. It is a mutual decision between you and your baby.
What is Extended Breastfeeding?
Well I guess that means longer than 6 months – (this seems to be a trend in USA) but we like to say that there’s no such thing. It’s just breastfeeding! Do it for as long as you and baby decide. In general, many other mothers in other countries nurse their babies much longer than we do here in the USA. It’s just normal. Scientists are still learning about the thousands of components in human breast milk. Human milk for human babies - there is really no better food on the planet!
What if I’m ready to WEAN my baby from the Breast?
We can help you with this. We advise if at all possible, to do it gradually for your sake and baby’s sake. Discuss your supplemental food options with your baby’s doctor. Some babies transition easily, but other’s do not. They may experience tummy upset, change in stooling patterns or constipation.
When should I introduce solid or complimentary foods?
From American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP):
Introduce solid foods around 6 months of age.
Expose baby to a wide variety of healthy foods.
Also offer a variety of textures.
Practice appropriate bottle and breast feeding practices:
- Avoid bottle propping
- Only breastmilk or formula in bottle unless otherwise directed by physician
Exclusive breastfeeding for approximately 6 months. Continue breastfeeding until the baby's first birthday or longer while mutually desired by mother and baby.
Co-Sleeping & Bed Sharing
What do I need to know about bed sharing/ co-sleeping and breastfeeding?
We will never tell you to co-sleep with your baby.
However, we will advise that you do your homework regarding safe co-sleeping guidelines. Co-sleeping means different things to different people. Bed share? Room share? Couches and Recliner chairs may be very dangerous. Does one of the adults in the smoke? Did mother smoke during pregnancy? There are many things to consider.
Get the FACTS!
James McKenna world expert on infant sleep.
Check out his website and new book
Book – Safe Infant Sleep by James J McKenna published Jan 14, 2020
Expert Answers to Your Cosleeping Questions
Google this:
Bed sharing and Breastfeeding:
The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine Protocol #6, Revision 2019
Free Indiana Pregnancy Resources
Are there any other free services during pregnancy and after baby arrives?
(includes first year of baby’s life)
call to see if you qualify
Phone 844-624-6667 (M-F 8:30 - 5:30)
Birth Info
Where can I find information about BIRTH choices?
Have you heard about Evidence Based Birth?
Check this out – and share it far and wide with women who are expecting babies!
Articles, handouts, podcasts, resources and more…
https://evidencebasedbirth.com/resources-for-parents/
Mission: to raise the quality of childbirth care globally, by putting accurate, evidence based research into the hands of families and communities, so they can make informed, empowered choices.
Where can I find info about circumcision?
https://evidencebasedbirth.com/evidence-and-ethics-on-circumcision/
From American Academy Pediatrics: Existing scientific evidence demonstrates potential medical benefits of newborn male circumcision; however, these data are not sufficient to recommend routine neonatal circumcision. In circumstances in which there are potential benefits and risks, yet the procedure is not essential to the child’s current well-being, parents should determine what is in the best interest of the child. To make an informed choice, parents of all male infants should be given accurate and unbiased information and be provided the opportunity to discuss this decision. If a decision for circumcision is made, procedural analgesia should be provided.
Post Partum
Where can I find Post Partum Depression info?
Women with postpartum depression need not feel alone. They may find useful information on the web sites of the National Women's Health Information Center (womenshealth.gov) and from groups such as Postpartum Support International (https://postpartum.net/).
Lactation Resources
Where can I find more trustworthy Lactation information?
There’s soooo much out there! We know it can be overwhelming!
Kellymom.com is a great resource – truly everything from A-Z
Academy Breastfeeding Medicine is another great resource.
