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What Is a Lactation Educator? Supporting Families, One Feed at a Time
Jeanette Kovach • February 11, 2025
A Lactation Educator is a trained professional who provides education and support to breastfeeding parents. They help with general breastfeeding knowledge.
What a Lactation Educator Can Help With:
- Teaching breastfeeding techniques and positions
- Educating about milk supply and how to maintain it
- Offering guidance on common breastfeeding concerns (e.g., engorgement, latch issues)
- Providing support for pumping and milk storage
- Helping parents understand infant feeding cues
- Encouraging confidence and emotional support in the breastfeeding journey
A Lactation Educator is great if you need general breastfeeding education and encouragement.
If you’re facing significant challenges like severe pain, low milk supply, or a baby who isn’t gaining weight, an IBCLC or other healthcare professional may be a better resource.
Breastfeeding is a natural process, but that doesn’t mean it always comes naturally! Many new parents have questions about nursing their babies, from concerns about milk supply to finding the right latch. Here, we answer some of the most common breastfeeding questions to help you feel more confident on your journey.
The moments after birth are incredibly special, filled with awe as a newborn takes their first breaths and makes their first movements outside the womb. One of the most remarkable instincts a baby has is the ability to find their mother’s breast and latch on their own—this is known as the breast crawl. It is a natural, reflexive behavior that allows babies to initiate breastfeeding on their own within the first hour of life.
Breast milk is often called "liquid gold" for a reason—it's a dynamic, living substance that adapts to meet your baby’s nutritional and immune needs. Many people assume that this adaptability only applies when directly nursing, but that’s not the case! Even if you’re exclusively pumping, your breast milk continues to change in response to your baby’s growth, health, and environment.
Unmedicated childbirth is a deeply personal and empowering experience that many birthing people choose for a variety of reasons, including a desire for minimal medical intervention, a more connected birthing experience, or a preference for natural pain management techniques.
Returning to work after having a baby can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re committed to continuing your breastfeeding journey. Many parents worry about how to maintain their milk supply, find time to pump, and ensure their baby gets enough breastmilk while they’re away. The good news? With the right preparation and mindset, balancing work and breastfeeding is absolutely possible.
Why do women stop breastfeeding?
Someone might seek a lactation educator for various reasons related to breastfeeding and infant feeding. Lactation educators provide education, guidance, and support to help parents navigate breastfeeding challenges and make informed choices.