What Is Lactation Support? A New Parent’s Guide to Breastfeeding Help & Empowerment
Why Lactation Support Matters
Breastfeeding is natural, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy.
Many new parents are shocked by how hard it can feel at first. Latching pain, supply worries, cluster feeds that last all night… and let’s not even talk about conflicting advice from the internet.
On top of that, there’s often guilt, shame, or pressure, like you’re somehow failing if things aren’t going smoothly.
But here’s the truth: you are not the problem.
And you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Lactation support is compassionate, professional help that meets you where you are, offering reassurance, problem-solving, and evidence-based guidance without judgment. Whether you’re breastfeeding, combo-feeding, pumping, or transitioning to formula, it’s about finding what works for you.
In this post, we’ll explore:
What lactation support actually is
Who provides it
Common challenges and how they’re addressed
How to find breastfeeding help in South Lake Tahoe, Carson Valley, Reno and Truckee
What Is Lactation Support?
Definition and Purpose
Lactation support is professional and emotional help for feeding your baby, however that looks for your family.
It includes support for:
Breastfeeding and chestfeeding
Pumping and milk storage
Blended feeding plans (breastmilk + formula)
Weaning or exclusive formula feeding with intention
It’s about meeting your goals, not living up to someone else’s idea of the “perfect” feeding journey.
What’s Included in Lactation Support Services
Every provider is different, but quality lactation support typically includes:
Help with latching and positioning
Addressing pain, engorgement, or blocked ducts
Support with milk supply issues (low, high, or fluctuating)
Pumping guidance and return-to-work planning
Emotional reassurance and feeding confidence
Education about normal newborn behavior (yes, it’s normal to nurse constantly some days!)
Who Provides Lactation Support?
Lactation Consultants (IBCLC)
International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) are the gold standard. They:
Complete advanced medical training
Handle complex feeding challenges
Often work in hospitals, private practice, or with pediatric teams
Lactation Counselors & Educators
Certified Lactation Counselors (CLCs) and other trained lactation educators are a fantastic and often underrecognized resource for breastfeeding support. While they may not hold the IBCLC credential, many CLCs have extensive hands-on experience and up-to-date lactation training, and are often more accessible for routine care and early challenges.
You might turn to a CLC or lactation educator for:
Compassionate, hands-on, personalized support
Guidance through common breastfeeding concerns like latch, positioning, milk supply, or nipple pain
Prenatal breastfeeding education to help you feel confident before baby arrives
Encouragement and reassurance during the postpartum period, especially in the early weeks
They’re a valuable part of the lactation care team, and for many families, a CLC provides just the right support at just the right time.
Peer Counselors & Community Resources
Support doesn’t always come in a white coat, and that’s a good thing.
WIC peer counselors, trained doulas, and local support groups play a huge role
They offer culturally relevant, relatable guidance
Many are available at no cost to families
Common Reasons People Seek Lactation Support
Painful Nursing or Latching Difficulties
This is one of the most common reasons people reach out.
Sore or damaged nipples
Shallow latch or baby falling off the breast
Possible tongue or lip ties
Discomfort during or after feeds
Concerns About Milk Supply
Too much? Too little? Totally confused?
Low supply, especially after birth or illness
Oversupply, causing gassy, uncomfortable feeds
Worries about pumping output or baby’s weight gain
Transitioning Back to Work
Going back to work doesn’t have to mean stopping breastfeeding.
Build a freezer stash
Plan a pumping schedule
Learn bottle pacing and care provider communication
Navigating Formula Use or Weaning
Lactation support helps with more than just breastfeeding.
Blended feeding strategies
How to wean gently and with intention
Emotional processing of feeding transitions
💡 Pro Tip: Lactation support isn’t just for newborns, it’s helpful at every stage of your feeding journey.
The Emotional Side of Feeding Support
Why Empathy Matters
Feeding your baby is deeply personal. When it feels hard, many parents carry guilt or shame, but they shouldn’t have to.
Nonjudgmental care builds confidence
Feeling seen and heard is just as important as latch technique
Compassion creates space for healing and growth
How Embrace Supports the Whole You
At Embrace Childbirth and Lactation, our lactation counseling is:
Evidence-based, but never pushy
Trauma-informed, recognizing how past experiences affect the present
Inclusive and affirming for all families, including LGBTQ+ and non-binary parents
We’re here for more than just “how to”, we’re here for how you feel.
Finding Lactation Support Near You
In-Person vs. Virtual Support
Both options have their place.
In-person visits allow for hands-on help and baby assessments
Virtual support offers flexibility, especially for postpartum recovery and we can cover just as much as an in-person visit with the help of video conferencing!
At Embrace, we offer both, so you can get support that fits your life.
What to Look for in a Lactation Provider
Credentials (IBCLC, CLC, CLE, etc.)
Years in practice and network of support
Philosophy that aligns with your values
Clear communication and flexible scheduling
Most of all, someone you feel safe and comfortable with
Lactation Support in South Lake Tahoe, Carson Valley, Reno and Truckee
Looking for breastfeeding support in South Lake Tahoe, The Carson Valley, Reno or Truckee?
Embrace Childbirth and Lactation offers a team of professional lactation support that provides:
Prenatal classes to prepare you before birth
In-home or virtual lactation consults
Referrals to trusted community providers, if needed
We’re your village. And we’re honored to walk this path with you.
FAQs About Lactation Support
How soon should I reach out for help?
Ideally, within the first few days postpartum, or even during pregnancy. The earlier, the better!
What if I choose not to breastfeed, can I still get support?
Yes! We support all feeding choices. You still deserve guidance, compassion, and expert care no matter your feeding plans.
Can insurance or Medicaid cover lactation services?
Yes, often, but not always. Under the Affordable Care Act, most insurance plans are required to cover lactation support and breast pumps as part of preventive care, with no cost-sharing. That said, coverage can still vary depending on your specific plan, provider network, and location.
Some plans fully cover visits with an IBCLC, CLC, or other qualified provider. Others may require pre-approval, restrict coverage to in-network providers, or limit the number of visits. Medicaid coverage also varies by state.
We encourage all clients to contact their insurance or local Medicaid office to ask about lactation benefits. We’re happy to provide a superbill for potential reimbursement and can help you navigate the process or advocate for coverage when needed.
Feeding Your Baby Shouldn’t Feel Overwhelming or Lonely
Whether you’re dealing with latch struggles, supply concerns, or just want to feel more confident, you are not alone.
Embrace Childbirth and Lactation offers personalized, nonjudgmental lactation support for new and expecting families in South Lake Tahoe, Carson Valley, Reno and Truckee.
Book a lactation counseling session today and get expert care that nurtures both your baby and your peace of mind.
