What To Expect During Your First Lactation Consultation

If you’re preparing for your first lactation consultation, you might be feeling a mix of relief, nerves, and maybe even a little uncertainty. That’s completely normal—and you’re not alone. Lactation consultants are here to support you and your baby with compassionate, evidence-based care, and the first visit is an important step toward meeting your feeding goals.

Whether you’re breastfeeding, chestfeeding, pumping, supplementing, or still figuring it out, here’s exactly what you can expect during your first lactation consultation.

1. A Comfortable, Judgment-Free Environment

The goal of any lactation visit is to meet you where you are—with no pressure or shame. Whether you’re in the early days postpartum or weeks into your feeding journey, your consultant is there to support you, not critique you.

Expect a calm, supportive atmosphere where your story and your questions come first.

2. A Full Feeding Assessment

Your lactation consultant will start by asking about your birth, feeding experience so far, and any concerns you’re noticing—like pain, fussiness, low milk supply, or poor weight gain.

From there, they’ll usually observe a feeding if possible. This helps them assess:

• Your baby’s latch and positioning

• Suck-swallow-breathe coordination

• Milk transfer and feeding rhythm

• Any signs of tension, tongue or lip tie, or inefficient feeding

If you’re exclusively pumping or bottle-feeding, they’ll also look at flange fit, pump settings, bottle flow, and more.

3. Hands-On Help (With Your Consent)

With your permission, your consultant may offer gentle hands-on support to adjust your baby’s latch, demonstrate different holds, or show you how to use a nipple shield or pump more effectively.

This kind of real-time support can help you feel more confident—and more comfortable.

4. A Personalized Plan

Before the visit ends, your lactation consultant will walk you through a care plan tailored to your specific needs and goals. This may include:

• Positioning techniques to try

• Pumping schedules

• Supplementation guidance if needed

• Follow-up recommendations

• Resources for further support

You’ll leave with a clear plan—and the reassurance that you don’t have to figure it out alone.

5. Emotional Support and Encouragement

One of the most important parts of a lactation consultation? Compassion. Feeding your baby is deeply emotional, and your consultant understands that. Expect to feel seen, heard, and validated—whether you’re navigating challenges or simply need a confidence boost.

You’re Not Alone on This Journey

The early days of feeding can be overwhelming, but help is here. Lactation consultants are trained to support you in both the practical and emotional parts of feeding your baby—and it all starts with that first visit.

If you’re ready to feel more supported and confident in your feeding journey, we’d love to meet you. Reach out today to schedule your lactation consultation.