Finding a Lactation Consultant
When looking for a lactation consultant, what should I be looking for and what questions should I be asking her? Is there a questionnaire that I can download to take notes of all the consultants to make sure I am making the right choice and to compare the services?
Answer from the lactation consultant I have never had this question before in 7 years of being a LC. I do not honestly feel you need to interview a LC. Just make sure you find a IBCLC, someone who is certified in this way adheres to a a strong code of ethics and is throroughly trained to assist moms in most situations. The only time you will need to do some investigating is if you speak a language that is not the primary language where you live or if you have a special circumstance like adoptive breastfeeding and need to find someone with experience in that field. Otherwise all IBCLC's are qualified to help you with common problems. Something that is FAR better than interviewing is to find moms who can recommend a IBCLC to you. You can ask your pediatrician who he/she recommends and go from there.
Liz Pevytoe, RN, IBCLC