What to Expect from a Lactation Consult While Still in the Hospital
- Virtual Breastfeeding Inc.
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Just like a prenatal lactation consultation, an assessment after birth is just as important—if not more. While prenatal visits help prepare expectant parents with education and planning, real-time support after delivery addresses the immediate and practical challenges that often come up during those first hours and days of breastfeeding.
After birth, your body goes through rapid changes, and your baby is learning how to feed for the very first time. This is a critical window for establishing a strong feeding foundation, and having a lactation consultant by your side can make a world of difference.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through exactly what to expect from a lactation consult while still in the hospital—from that precious first hour after birth to the moments just before you head home with your little one. Whether you're a first-time parent or need a refresher, this guide will help you feel more prepared, supported, and confident in your feeding journey.
1. Initial Assessment (Within the First Few Hours)
When It Happens:
Often within the first hour or two after birth—also known as the “golden hour.”
What to Expect:
Encouragement of skin-to-skin contact and assistance with the very first breastfeeding session.
Observation of your baby’s feeding readiness—like rooting and sucking reflexes.
Identify any concerns that might affect feeding, such as flat/inverted nipples, engorgement, or tongue tie.
A detailed breast anatomy assessment, even if you had one during pregnancy.
📝 Note: While breast anatomy is commonly reviewed during prenatal consults, it’s essential to reassess after birth. Hormonal shifts, swelling, or engorgement can impact how the baby latches and how feeding feels. Catching these changes early can prevent discomfort and help establish a strong feeding foundation.
2. Latch & Positioning Support
What to Expect:
Demonstrations of different breastfeeding positions like cradle, cross-cradle, football hold, and side-lying.
Hands-on help with achieving a deep, comfortable latch.
Tips to fix shallow or painful latches.
Introduction of tools or props when needed—like nursing pillows or nipple shields (only if medically appropriate).
3. Monitoring Milk Transfer & Supply
What to Expect:
Close monitoring to make sure your baby is effectively drinking colostrum or milk.
Counting wet and dirty diapers to ensure the baby is getting enough.
Education about the transition from colostrum to mature milk, which usually happens around days 2–5.
Guidance on what successful feeding looks like: audible swallowing, relaxed hands, and a satisfied baby.
4. Addressing Common Feeding Concerns
Lactation consultants can help troubleshoot common early challenges such as:
Sore or cracked nipples, or engorged breasts
A baby who is not latching or keeps falling asleep during feeds
Questions about pacifier or bottle use
Deciding when or if formula supplementation is necessary
Managing early signs of jaundice or weight loss in relation to feeding
5. Personalized Feeding Plan & Continued Support After Discharge
As your private lactation consultants, we’re here to support you not only during your hospital stay but also well beyond it. Before you head home, we’ll work with you to create a personalized feeding plan that aligns with your baby’s needs and your feeding goals—whether that’s breastfeeding, pumping, or a combination of both.
What to Expect:
A customized feeding plan based on your baby’s cues, your milk supply, and any challenges you’re facing.
Guidance on how to identify hunger cues, how often to feed (typically every 2–3 hours in the beginning), and what to watch for to ensure your baby is getting enough.
Pumping education and support, especially if you're dealing with latch difficulties.
Helpful resources like handouts, videos, and simple tools to support your learning at home.
Most importantly, we’ll provide ongoing support after discharge—through virtual follow-ups, in-home visits, or messaging-based care so you're never left navigating feeding challenges alone.
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