What is the difference between a Board-Certified Breastfeeding and Lactation Medicine Physician and a Lactation Consultant?
Breastfeeding is a deeply personal and sometimes challenging journey, and having the right support can make all the difference. Sometimes new mothers find themselves confused when seeking help to ensure they and their babies can enjoy a successful breastfeeding experience. While International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) and Certified Lactation Counselors (CLCs) provide invaluable support, a Board-certified Breastfeeding and Lactation Medicine (BFLM) physician offers a unique set of skills and expertise that can be particularly beneficial in more complex situations.
Understanding the Roles
Lactation Consultants: Lactation consultants are trained professionals who specialize in helping mothers and babies with breastfeeding. They provide practical support, education, and hands-on assistance to address common breastfeeding challenges. Some IBCLCs are certified by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners and have extensive training in lactation management.
Board-Certified Breastfeeding and Lactation Physicians: A Breastfeeding and Lactation Medicine physician is a medical doctor with specialized training in lactation. In addition to providing the support offered by lactation consultants, they bring a medical perspective to breastfeeding challenges. They are equipped to diagnose and treat a range of medical conditions related to breastfeeding, offering a comprehensive approach that integrates medical and lactation expertise.
What a Board-Certified Breastfeeding and Lactation Medicine Physician Offers
Medical Diagnosis and Treatment:
Complex Cases: While lactation consultants can handle many common breastfeeding issues, a physician can diagnose and treat more complex medical conditions that may affect breastfeeding. This includes infections (such as mastitis), hormonal imbalances, and anatomical issues in both mother and baby.
Medication Management: Physicians can prescribe and manage medications that may be necessary for breastfeeding mothers, ensuring that both the mother's and baby's health are safeguarded. They can also prescribe medications that can directly treat lactation-related problems, like infection or low milk supply.
Integrated Medical Care:
Holistic Approach: A BFLM physician can provide care that considers the whole health picture, integrating lactation support with overall maternal and infant health. This includes managing and/or coordinating care of chronic conditions (such as diabetes or hypertension) that can impact breastfeeding. BFLM physicians often work in tandem with a patient’s IBCLC and specialty physician or OB/Gyn or midwife, creating a comprehensive team of healthcare professionals to support lactation-related conditions.
Postpartum Care: BFLM physicians can address a wide range of postpartum issues beyond breastfeeding, offering a more comprehensive care plan that supports the mother’s recovery and well-being and newborn care.
Specialized Expertise:
Breast Surgery and Conditions: Women with a history of breast surgery or specific breast conditions may face unique breastfeeding challenges. A physician's medical training allows them to provide tailored advice and management strategies for these situations.
Infant Health Issues: Premature babies or those with congenital conditions often require specialized feeding plans. A lactation physician can develop and oversee these plans, ensuring that the infant's health needs are met alongside breastfeeding goals.
Advanced Problem-Solving:
Recurrent Issues: For mothers experiencing recurrent breastfeeding problems, such as repeated bouts of mastitis or ongoing pain, a lactation physician can delve deeper into potential underlying causes and provide advanced treatment options for people who wish to consider providing their breast milk for their baby despite these challenges.
Breastfeeding After Infertility: Mothers who have undergone fertility treatments or have a history of infertility might have unique lactation challenges. A physician can offer specialized support and strategies to help achieve successful breastfeeding.
Emotional and Psychological Support:
Mental Health Integration: The emotional aspects of breastfeeding can be significant, and postpartum mental health is a critical component of overall well-being. A lactation physician can screen for postpartum depression and anxiety, providing or referring for appropriate mental health support in conjunction with lactation care.
Collaboration with Lactation Consultants
It’s important to note that lactation physicians often work closely with lactation consultants (and other health professionals), combining their expertise to offer the best possible care. This collaborative approach ensures that mothers receive comprehensive support, addressing both practical breastfeeding techniques and any underlying medical issues.
Why Choose a Board-Certified Breastfeeding and Lactation Physician?
Choosing a Board-certified Breastfeeding and Lactation Medicine physician provides an added layer of medical expertise that can be particularly beneficial in complex or challenging breastfeeding situations. Their ability to diagnose and treat medical conditions, manage medications, and provide integrated care makes them a valuable resource for mothers facing more than just the typical breastfeeding hurdles.
At In Touch Pediatrics and Lactation, we are dedicated to offering the highest level of care to support your breastfeeding journey. Whether you need help with common breastfeeding issues or are facing more complex challenges, we are committed to helping you reach your feeding goals without judgment. We are here to provide the comprehensive, compassionate care you deserve.