What is an IBCLC?
An International Board Certified Lactation
Consultant (IBCLC) has acquired extensive clinical training, typically a minimum of 500-1000 hours working with breastfeeding families directly, completed rigorous academic coursework, and passed a challenging board exam. The term “lactation consultant” is not legally protected and can be used by anyone to describe themself. Hiring an IBCLC assures that your provider meets the gold-standard of care for lactation professionals. To verify your lactation consultant is an IBCLC you can search this ​directory​.
​
What can you do to help me?
As board certified lactation consultants we provide expert level services to help a parent reach their breastfeeding/feeding goals. The consultant will serve as a
resource for parents by providing accurate, evidence-based information and practical support. The lactation consultant uses their knowledge and experience to assess your situation to develop a plan that best meets your individual needs and goals. 

Common issues include, but are not limited to:
  • helping to finesse latch and positioning to improve comfort and milk removal
  • infant weight concerns 
  • nipple pain, nipple damage, breast pain, breast health concerns (plugged ducts, mastitis)
  • tongue and lip tie assessment
  • milk supply issues
  • feeding a premature baby 
  • transitioning back to work
  • bottle feeding, supplementation, pumping, feeding multiples

What should I expect during a lactation consultation?
  • 90-120 minute consultations
  • review of health history 
  • listening to your feeding experience and discussion of your current situation and breastfeeding goals
  • observation of feeding
  • adjustments to latch and positioning as needed
  • breast exam in cases of breast health concerns or to evaluate distribution of glandular tissue
  • weighing of infant including milk transfer weight
  • ​thorough evaluation of infant tongue function 
  • assistance with any feeding tools or devices
  • working together to create a sustainable plan to support your success.
  • ... and address all of your questions and concerns.


​
What does your fee include in addition to the consult?
  • ongoing support such as phone and email follow-up
  • research as needed
  • selecting additional resources 
  • report sent to additional providers within your healthcare team

Will my insurance cover your services?
Both Chelsea and Lara are currently in-network with Aetna including most Aetna/Coventry subsidiary plans and Regence/BCBS of Oregon. Please let us know if you need help verifying your benefits. 

For self-pay clients we provide a claim form for you to submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement. Payment in full (cash, check, or
credit card/HSA card) is typically due at the time of service. However, we fully acknowledge that lactation services can often be an unexpected yet much needed expense. We will work with you to provide a flexible payment plan if
needed-please don’t hesitate to ask about this.

​Insurance reimbursement amounts cannot be guaranteed as insurance company policies vary widely. We encourage you to contact your insurance provider
directly to find out what the coverage limitations are for your specific plan. More information on insurance coverage for lactation services here​.



​Please contact us directly for a full list of fees for services and payment plan options.