Congratulations on choosing to breastfeed your little one! Breastfeeding is a natural process but it is also a learning experience for both mom and baby. Studies have shown that mothers are more successful with breastfeeding if they have professional support from an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). IBCLCs, like myself, go through a rigorous educational program including specialized training in complex breastfeeding issues and we have to pass a comprehensive exam before being granted certification. We also use the latest research to complement our practice.
I graduated from the University of Kansas with degrees in Human Biology and Nursing. I was a Neonatal Intensive Care (NICU) nurse for six and a half years and have been working as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant since 2014. I have always been passionate about breastfeeding and believe that every family deserves the right to give their baby the best start in life. My goal is to help you reach your goals. Each family is different and I pride myself on being able to tailor my services to what works best for your life. I offer private prenatal breastfeeding classes as well as in-home breastfeeding consultations. I look forward to working with you and your family!
I specialize in pre- and post- revision oral tether (tongue tie, lip tie, buccal tie) management. I have both personal and professional experience with these complex issues. My son underwent lip, tongue, and buccal tie revisions as an infant and has been in chiropractic care since he was 3 days old. My daughter also had lip, tongue, and buccal tie revisions as an infant and had extensive bodywork for colic and extreme muscle tension. I also have special training in oral habilitation (helping with function of the tongue and mouth). I can perform a functional assessment of your baby to determine if referral to an oral tether professional is necessary and can help you coordinate the care team your baby will need to give him/her the best chance of breastfeeding optimally. Please visit my resources page for more information on oral tethers.
Conferences and training sessions attended:
-Herbal Support in Lactation and Infant Care for the Health Professional (Luna Lactation- Melissa Cole)- Sept/Oct 2020
-Tongue Tie Symposium (Gold Lactation)- Sept 2020
-Oral Function: Assessment and Comprehensive Care Conference (Melissa Cole/Michelle Emanuel)- Sept 2019
-Tongue Tie Symposium (Gold Lactation)- Sept 2019
-Tongue Tie Symposium (Gold Lactation)- Nov 2018
-Breastfeeding Challenges and Management (GKCLCA)- Sept 2018
-The Other Breastfeeding Dyad: IBCLCs and Bodyworkers (Jennifer Tow)- Dec 2017
-Oral Habilitation of the Breastfeeding Dyad: A Master Class (Jennifer Tow)- Oct 2017
-Tongue Tie Symposium (Gold Lactation)- Oct 2017
-Breastfeeding Practices (GKCLCA)- Sept 2017
-Tongue Tie Symposium (Gold Lactation)- Nov 2016
Other Specialties:
-Latch issues
-Nipple and breast pain
-Premature infants
-Multiples
-Special situations (Down Syndrome, cleft lip/palate and other medical complications)
-Exclusive pumping/bottle feeding
-Returning to work (pumping, breastmilk storage, etc)
-Low milk supply/over supply
-Breast conditions (inverted nipples, previous breast surgeries, engorgement, plugged ducts, etc)
**I provide services for families in Kansas City, Leawood, Overland Park, Olathe and Shawnee. If you are outside of these areas, please contact me to see if arrangements can be made. Charges may apply for travel distances greater than 20mi or 25 minutes from my home in South Overland Park.**