Navigating Conflicting Advice from Lactation Consultants: A Struggle for New Moms
Being a new mom is an emotional and physical whirlwind. You’re recovering from birth, adjusting to sleepless nights, and doing everything you can to feed and nurture your baby. Breastfeeding, which is often portrayed as a natural and instinctive process, can feel anything but easy. To make matters even more challenging, the professionals you turn to for guidance—Lactation Consultants—can sometimes offer vastly different, even contradictory, advice.
The Reality: No “One Right Way”
One Lactation Consultant may swear by strict feeding schedules, while another emphasizes feeding on demand. One might recommend pumping right away to boost supply, while another tells you to avoid pumping to protect your milk production. These differing opinions can leave you feeling more confused and defeated than before.
Why the Differences?
Lactation Consultants come from a variety of training backgrounds and bring their own philosophies and experiences to the table. While they all share the goal of supporting breastfeeding mothers, the path they suggest to achieve that can differ greatly. Factors such as cultural beliefs, differing levels of experience, and personal biases can all influence the recommendations they give.
The Impact on New Mothers
Conflicting advice can be emotionally draining. As a new mom, you’re already dealing with hormonal shifts, exhaustion, and the immense pressure to “get it right” for your baby. When professionals you trust give you inconsistent or clashing guidance, it can leave you feeling paralyzed, unsure which path to follow.
So, What Can You Do?
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Trust Your Gut: You know your baby and your body best. If a piece of advice feels wrong or adds unnecessary stress, it’s okay to take a step back.
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Ask for Clarification: If one consultant’s advice contradicts another’s, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Understanding why a specific recommendation is being made can give you the confidence to make an informed choice.
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Find Your Comfort Zone: While expert guidance is invaluable, your comfort and peace of mind are just as important. Whether it’s breastfeeding on a strict schedule or feeding on demand, choose an approach that aligns with your well-being and your baby’s needs.
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Stick with What Works: If you find a method or piece of advice that feels right and works for you and your baby, give yourself permission to stick with it, even if others suggest something different.
A Final Word of Support
Breastfeeding is a journey, and it doesn’t come with a one-size-fits-all manual. Conflicting advice from Lactation Consultants is frustrating, but it’s also a reminder that every baby and every mother is unique. Give yourself grace, seek support when you need it, and trust that you are doing an incredible job. You’re not alone, and it’s okay to make decisions that feel best for you and your baby.