An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is a specialised professional who works as part of the maternal-child health team. They provide expert breastfeeding and lactation support in various settings and make referrals to other healthcare providers and community resources when necessary.

IBCLCs collaborate with mothers, families, policymakers, and communities to deliver expert lactation care. They advocate for breastfeeding-friendly practices and help minimise the risks associated with not breastfeeding.

The title "IBCLC" is a protected credential. While anyone can call themselves a lactation consultant, only those who have met the educational and clinical requirements set by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) and successfully passed the certification exam can use the title IBCLC. This credential is recognised internationally and represents the highest standard in lactation care and management.

To maintain their certification, IBCLCs must re-certify every five years and engage in continuous professional development.

IBCLC Values:

Excellence: We strive for excellence
Diversity: We value and respect different cultures, languages, and backgrounds.
Respect: Our interactions are guided by respect for others.
Integrity: We are honest and ethical.
Communication: We believe open and timely communication is important.
Collaboration: We work together to achieve the best results.

https://iblce.org/about-iblce/

• Support for new parents needing reassurance and encouragement

• Challenges with positioning and attachment

• Breast or nipple pain during breastfeeding

• Mastitis treatment and prevention

• Managing engorgement

• Vasospasm (painful nipple condition)

• Breast refusal

• Support with weaning

• Re-lactation after a break in breastfeeding

• Induced lactation for same-sex or adoptive families

• Supplementing with expressed breast milk (EBM) or formula

• Guidance on bottle feeding and mixed feeding (breast & bottle)

• Preparing for the transition back to work

• Weight loss over 10%

• Feeding a baby who is jaundice

• Low milk supply concerns

• Oversupply concerns

• Insufficient glandular tissue (IGT)

• Potential allergies or intolerances in the infant

• Concerns about tongue-tie or lip-tie

• Breastfeeding multiples (twins or more)

• Oral dysfunction in babies

Before our consultation, I’ll review your medical, birth, and feeding history to ensure we make the most of our time together.

During the consultation, I’ll listen to your concerns and goals, conduct a thorough assessment of your baby feeding, and assess your breasts and nipples. If indicated, I also perform an oral assessment on baby with your consent. 

As your baby feeds, I’ll explain what I’m observing and provide verbal guidance, making suggestions for adjustments in positioning and latch as needed. If necessary, I can also weigh your baby using my portable scales.

As a holistic practitioner, I consider your personal history, available support system, mental health, and any trauma history to ensure that I create a safe, realistic plan tailored to you.

I carry nipple shields, flange kits and inserts, syringes, cups, feeding tubes, and educational materials. I have a hospital grade electric breast pump available to hire if required. 

After our visit, I’ll put together a personalised feeding plan and send it to you via email within 24 hours. You’ll also receive additional resources like photos and videos for reference if applicable.

I keep detailed, legal medical notes and, with your consent, can update your healthcare team on the feeding plan. I’m also able to provide medical referrals to other healthcare professionals if needed.

Yes, I offer both in-person consultations at a home clinic in Dalyston and provide home visits within 40km of Wonthaggi.

I also offer online consultations via Telehealth for those outside this area or who prefer virtual support.

Frequently visited suburbs:

Dalyston, Wonthaggi, Inverloch, Cape Patterson, San Remo, Phillip Island, Bass, Grantville, Leongatha, Kilcunda, Coronet Bay, Corinella, Loch, Korumburra, Meeniyan. 

No, a referral is not required. However, if your GP, Obstetrician, or Paediatrician would like to send a referral, I’m more than happy to receive the additional information.

Direct deposit and PayID.  Payment plans available on request.

Rebates vary based on your insurer and level of coverage. Private health funds that may offer rebates for IBCLC services include Medibank, HCF, NIB, BUPA, CBHS, AHM, Police Health, Teacher’s Union Health, and Health Partners. These are subject to change, so please discuss with your Health Fund to see what you are entitled to.