Navigating Breastfeeding in the Mid-Ohio Valley: Finding a Lactation Consultant in Parkersburg, WV
Breastfeeding is a beautiful journey, but it doesn’t always come easily. Whether you’re a new mom facing latching difficulties or an experienced mother looking for additional support, a lactation consultant (LC) can be your breastfeeding BFF.
As a mother of preemie twins myself, I remember all of the stress and emotions that came with nursing and being a new mom.
If you’re located in Parkersburg, WV, or the surrounding Mid-Ohio Valley region, you might be wondering: “Where do I find a lactation consultant near me?” Don’t worry, mama, we’ve got you covered!
What is a Lactation Consultant and How Can They Help?
A lactation consultant is a healthcare professional with specialized training and certification in breastfeeding. They can help with a variety of challenges, including:
- Latching difficulties
- Low milk supply
- Painful breastfeeding
- Returning to work and pumping
- Introducing solids while breastfeeding
- Weaning
Finding Your Perfect Lactation Consultant in Parkersburg, WV or the Mid-Ohio Valley
Here are some resources to help you find a lactation consultant in your area:
- Parkersburg Area Hospitals:
- Camden Clark Medical Center: Camden Clark Medical Center lactation services offers lactation support and classes. You are able to call to make an appointment with any of our consultants at 304-424-2748 or email us at CCMCLactation@wvumedicine.org
- Nurse Practitioner Moriah Williams at Cardinal Pediatrics is also a certified lactation consultant.
- MOV Birth offers breastfeeding support and lactation counseling.
Beyond Parkersburg: Resources in the Mid-Ohio Valley
If you live outside of Parkersburg, don’t despair! Here are some resources for finding lactation consultants in nearby areas:
Jill Shutts, RN is the Lactation coordinator at Marietta Memorial. Her contact information is listed as: (740) 374-1627 or jshutts@mhsystem.org
Lora at Mother’s Hand is both a doula and a location consultant in the area.
International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA)
The ILCA website (https://ilca.org/) allows you to search for certified lactation consultants by location.
Online Directories
- Websites like https://ilca.org/why-ibclc-falc/ and https://llli.org/ can also help you find LCs in your area.
Helping You Navigate Breastfeeding Hurdles
Lactation consultants are trained professionals who can identify issues like latching difficulties, low milk supply, or nipple pain. They don’t just point out problems; they provide solutions too!
Through their guidance, you’ll gain the knowledge and techniques to:
- Understand your baby’s feeding cues
- Overcome breastfeeding challenges
- Feel confident and empowered in your breastfeeding journey
Tailored Support for Your Unique Needs
Every breastfeeding path is unique. A lactation consultant in Parkersburg will take the time to understand your specific situation and address any hurdles you might be facing.
Investing in Your Breastfeeding Success
Working with a lactation consultant can save you valuable time and energy in the long run. They can guide you through difficulties, answer your questions, and ultimately give you peace of mind on your breastfeeding journey.
Remember, you’re not alone! A lactation consultant in Parkersburg, WV is there to support you every step of the way.
Additional Tips for Choosing a Lactation Consultant
- Consider your specific needs and preferences. Do you need someone who specializes in a particular area, like tongue ties or multiples?
- Read online reviews and recommendations.
- Schedule a consultation to see if you feel comfortable with the consultant’s approach.
Benefits of Working with a Lactation Consultant
Lactation consultants can be a valuable resource for breastfeeding mothers. They can provide you with:
- Evidence-based information and support
- Encouragement and guidance
- Problem-solving skills to overcome challenges
- A sense of confidence in your breastfeeding journey
Remember, you are not alone on your breastfeeding journey! There are many resources available to help you succeed, including lactation consultants in the Parkersburg, WV area and the broader Mid-Ohio Valley. Don’t hesitate to seek help if you need it. Happy breastfeeding!
Having baby and maternity photos is a wonderful reminder of the joy and excitement you experience in the early days of your baby’s life. Additionally, you’ll be able to bond more with your partner in the process of getting the photos. As an experienced Parkersburg maternity and newborn photographer, I’d love to assist you with capturing these memories! Contact me today to get the conversation started.
MEET LORI PICKENS, PARKERSBURG, WV PHOTOGRAPHER
Lori Pickens is a Mother, Wife, Tech Geek from Parkersburg, WV, and the podcast host of Photo Goals. She is a true lifelong local and has been photographing in the area for over a decade. She serves families from Parkersburg, WV to Marietta, OH. Lori is also a Click Pro Elite and Click Community Mentor. When she’s not capturing pictures or spending time with her kids, she enjoys organizing her lists and spending time on her family farm.
