FAQ’s
Preparing for your visit FAQ’s
If your baby is hungry before I arrive, try giving half a feed. If your baby is ready to eat when I arrive, we’ll do that first. If not, we’ll talk first, then feed. During your consult, we will have time to talk, feed and come up with a plan.
Wear whatever you’re comfortable in. Pyjamas are fine! A breastfeeding bra / top or shirt that opens down the front is best for easy access when it’s time to feed or for skin-to-skin with your baby.
If you’ve been using a breast pump, bottle, nipple shield or other breastfeeding tools, have them ready (or bring them with you) as we may need them during the visit, and it’s helpful for me to see what you’ve been using.
If you’ve been supplementing or have been advised to supplement, have some expressed breastmilk, donor milk or formula ready.
It’s great if you can write a list of concerns and questions before I come, so that we can cover all your needs during the visit.
If you have an older child, it’s ideal if someone is available to help care for them during our visit, but I’m happy to work our visit around the needs of your children.
Your partner or support person is welcome to be with you. It’s a great opportunity for them to understand what you need and how they can support you.
Don’t worry about cleaning! I’m visiting to help you and your baby, not as a guest.
I’m comfortable with all kinds of pets. Dogs, cats, chickens, rabbits, all animals....
About your Consultation
What can I expect at an appointment?
A consultation will usually involve:
- General medical and health history
- Breast and nipple assessment
- Breastfeeding assessment and history
- Oral examination of infant
- Assessment of baby well-being
- Development of a mutually agreed feeding and management plan
After the consultation, I provide: - Payment receipt
- Email with notes on your consultation (within 24 hours)
- Referral to additional care providers as agreed
- Follow up text message to check-in
- 15 minute follow phone call if required for further support
- Personalised resources specific to your needs
All resources provided are for educational purposes only, although every effort is made to provide accurate and up-to-date information.
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Your appointment is usually 90 minutes because I want to ensure you and your baby get the support, information and unhurried time you need.
When breastfeeding concerns are complicated, we may need extra time: to troubleshoot what’s happening and identify the possible causes, discuss the options available to you, and develop a plan that’s going to work with your family.
Extra time means that we can develop a comprehensive plan that you can be confident in. I’ll let you know during our appointment if I feel we may need more time and you can decide if that suits you. There may be times when I may not be able to accommodate extra time if I have another appointment or personal obligations.
Yes, I provide in-home consultations on the Bellarine Pennisula and Geelong region.
Please contact me on this website if you are interstate or overseas we can zoom so I can watch a feed I will not be able to physically examine you or your baby though.
I can usually see you within a day to two.
Please contact me on the book now button below to find a mutually convenient time for us both..
No, you don’t need a referral.
My aim is to develop your self-sufficiency and confidence.
I provide personalised consultations, so many families find that they are able to get the support they need in fewer appointments.
Most mothers find that one appointment is sufficient, although each feeding issue is unique and some more challenging than others.
How many appointments you’ll need really depends on the type and complexity of issues you’re dealing with.
After the initial consultation, you decide if and when you’d like a follow-up visit or call.
Sometimes all it takes to help a mother and baby get started with successful feeding is some basic support. For some families, basic breastfeeding support is not enough. And every health professional has their own approach.
Even if you’ve already seen a lactation specialist, if you’re still dealing with challenges that aren’t resolving, then additional support is highly recommended!
I will work with you to develop a plan that suits your current needs.
I can help with your breastfeeding challenges at any age.