Question 1

What is an IBCLC?

Accepted Answer

IBCLC stands for International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. It is the highest level of certification and considered the gold standard for dealing with breastfeeding concerns, and education surrounding breastfeeding. It is important when seeking breastfeeding support that if your challenge is complex, you ensure your provider is an IBCLC. Anyone can call themselves a "lactation consultant", and there are other certifications that offer breastfeeding support for less complex breastfeeding issues.

Education Behind Lactation Certifications:

IBCLC: Takes anywhere from 2-5 years to complete, 90 hours of lactation specific education, 1000 hours of hands on clinical hours, and a 4 hour board exam. Requires recertification every 5 years by exam or 75 hours of continuing education

Certified Lactation Counsellor: 45+ hours of education from 1 online or in person class. Requires 18 hours of continuing education every 3 years.

Certified Lactation Educator: 45 hours of education from 1 online or in person class. Recertification varies or does not expire.

Question 2

What issues can you help with?

Accepted Answer

I can help with anything breastfeeding related from pregnancy, through to weaning. Common issues that I offer support with are: Painful latch, nipple damage, clogged ducts/mastitis, blebs or milk blisters, low milk supply, slow weight gain, breast refusal, weaning from nipple shields, pumping and bottle feeding. I have an additional 35 hours of training in oral tethers (tongue, lip and buccal ties) and oral habilitation (oral exercises to support optimal oral function). If you are unsure if I can support you with your specific concern, please reach out to me!

Question 3

What areas are eligible for home visits?

Accepted Answer

My service area is fairly large, the main areas I travel to for home visits are Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, St. Jacobs, Guelph, Elmira and Stratford. I travel within about 70km on Conestogo, ON.

Question 4

Is support OHIP covered?

Accepted Answer

My services are privately billed, which means you don't need a doctors referral and can get help right away - no wait lists, no rushed appointments. This allows me to spend the time needed to truly listen and create a personalized plan for your family.

Many families find the extra investment worthwhile for the convenience, timeliness, and personalized attention that private care allows.

Question 5

Are there mileage costs?

Accepted Answer

There is no travel fee for home visits in Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, or Guelph. Visits to surrounding areas may include a small travel fee depending on distance, which will always be confirmed before booking

Question 6

Do benefit plans cover consultations?

Accepted Answer

Some benefit plans do cover consultations with an IBCLC or Nurse.  Reach out to your benefit provider to find out if you qualify for reimbursement.

If your benefit provider does not cover lactation support, hold on to your receipt so that you can claim my services as a health expense on your taxes.