We are thrilled to have you join us today as you embark on this incredible journey of motherhood. At our consultations, we understand that breastfeeding can sometimes feel like navigating uncharted waters. But fear not, because you're not alone – we're here to support you every step of the way!

We want you to know that it's okay to have questions, concerns, or even moments of doubt. Every mom's breastfeeding journey is unique, and we're here to provide you with the guidance, encouragement, and expertise you need to overcome any challenges you may be facing.

In our safe and nurturing space, we invite you to share openly and honestly about your breastfeeding experiences. Whether you're struggling with latch issues, engorgement, low milk supply, or simply feeling overwhelmed, our dedicated lactation consultant Carolyn is here to listen with empathy and offer practical solutions tailored to your individual needs.

About your practitioner:

Carolyn Coughlan, RGN RM RMT IBCLC

Carolyn qualified as a nurse in 2008 and as a midwife in 2010. After almost a decade on the labour wards of two busy Dublin maternity hospitals, moved to pursue her dream of becoming a homebirth midwife working in the Leinster area.

Carolyn is a clinical midwife tutor, an IBCLC approved Lactation Consultant, KGHypnobirthing Instructor and a qualified reflexologist. She is passionate about empowering her clients through support and education to find safe personal approaches to pregnancy, birth, breast-feeding and beyond.

“There is something remarkable about pregnancy and birth that is so inspiring. I am especially passionate about breastfeeding and helping mums find ways to overcome the obstacles to feeding their babies the way they would like to in a manner that is flexible, practical and judgement-free. My job is to empower families to make the right choices for them through education and support. There is no ‘one size fits all’ approach. My job is to support you to achieve your goals from conception to lactation and everything in-between.”

Why might you see a lactation consultant?

The research-based evidence overwhelmingly points to the importance of breastfeeding for both mother and baby. Breast milk is an unequalled source of nourishment and health-giving properties for your baby. The action of feeding is also important for your baby’s physical and psychological development.

Breastfeeding isn’t always as easy as you might have hoped. Many mothers have breastfeeding difficulties and without support may discontinue breastfeeding even when they don’t want to do so. There are many techniques and methods to help with latching on, milk production, treating and preventing mastitis and decreasing nipple pain.

“I get great satisfaction in helping mums overcome breastfeeding difficulties and finding their groove with the baby at the breast.” Carolyn.

What type of difficulties does a lactation consultation typically address?

As a lactation consultant, Carolyn meets mums with a broad range of issues and also a broad range of goals and values. She provides a tailored and individualised service for each mother-baby dyad she meets.

While not an exhaustive list, here are some of the typical issues that she might help you address in the consultation:

• Positioning and latching
• Sore nipples
• Plugged ducts/Mastitis
• Identifying tongue tie
• Reflux
• Return to work
• Expressing/pumping
• Combination feeding
• Supply issues (under/over-supply)
• Concerns regarding whether baby is getting enough food
• Colostrum harvesting
• Education around breastmilk banks/breastfeeding support groups

What are Carolyn’s qualifications?

On top of being a RGN, RM and RMT, Carolyn is an international board-certified lactation consultant (IBCLC) which is the highest level one can obtain in lactation support.

She has almost twenty years’ experience in nursing and midwifery working in hospitals and in the community. She is also a mother of two and so has personal experience to support evidence-based best-practice.

What happens during a consultation?

The consultation will typically take around 75 minutes and will be reassuring and supportive for you and your baby. In it, Carolyn will look to find practical, tailored solutions for your breastfeeding needs.

Whether harvesting colostrum, identifying a tongue tie, looking for comfortable holds that provide the deep latch that makes feeding easier or simply providing education on what options are available and on the latest evidence-based research, you are in good hands and Carolyn will be able to support you in resolving whatever difficulties you may be encountering.

What facilities are available at the clinic?

The clinic is a warm and friendly space with baby-changing facilities. You will be welcomed with complimentary tea or coffee and made to feel at home. After the stresses of pregnancy and new-motherhood, we feel it is so important to have a safe and nurturing space for you to come and find support.

What happens after the visit?

We are aware that at times it can be hard to retain all of the information and so the consultation is supported with a follow-up email containing all of the details discussed and any links or suggestions so you can refer to this as needed and don’t have to worry about forgetting anything.

Is it covered by health insurance?

Carolyn is a fully-qualified and IBCLC-registered lactation consultant and so the vast majority of policies would cover the service. Check with your insurer for confirmation.