If breastfeeding is so “natural,” then why is it so difficult?!
Whether it’s your first baby or your fifth, breastfeeding can sometimes pose some major challenges. While some amount of discomfort can be normal in the first week or so, intense pain is a sign that something is wrong, and you should see someone. Many moms tell us they feel unsure about latch, milk supply, and infant weight gain. Seeing a Lactation Consultant at the right time can help preserve the breastfeeding relationship if it’s gotten off to a rocky start. Exclusive breastfeeding for at least the first 6 months has been shown to have myriad benefits for the baby’s immune system, gut microbiota, and other important aspects of their development. It is our goal to provide the support, education, and resources to support those that do choose to breastfeed, and to educate all families on the benefits of breastfeeding, so that they can make a more fully-informed choice for their babies and themselves.
Our lactation support is holistic and expert, and can help you meet your breastfeeding goals.
Geneva Woods Midwifery is currently the only OB and midwifery clinic to offer lactation support from an IBCLC, or “Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant.” Many pediatric offices in Anchorage have IBCLC-level lactation consultants on staff, but we find that many of our own clients prefer to see someone they already know, and who can evaluate and treat both mom and baby, as needed. Our lactation consultants can see women and babies who were not previously our clients for birth as well, so don’t hesitate to call for an appointment if you want to meet with someone about lactation, either before or after your baby is born.
Our Lactation Consultant
Jennifer Allison, LPN, IBCLC International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant
Jennifer Allison is our lactation consultant, and is also a childbirth class instructor, teaching our “Fourth Trimester” class, which focuses largely on breastfeeding but touches on many other postpartum and newborn topics, as well as her own “Hypnosis for Birthwork” curriculum for natural childbirth preparation. She is passionate about breasfeeding (as well as 'chestfeeding') and loves to help families navigate their infant-feeding journey. Jennifer has 4 children and lives in Eagle River.