Frequently Asked Questions


Many new mothers have told me that the rental pumps, particularly the Symphony pump by Medela and Ameda breastpumps are the most gentle and effective at establishing and maintaining their milk supply. As a lactation consultant, childbirth and new parent educator, I always recommend too that mothers rent first and then think about purchasing a pump. The rental pumps cost over $2,000 and are leased at affordable rates. They are completely closed systems and offer no risk of cross contamination between users. Mothers purchase their own breast pumping kit and attach it to the pump. We can help to make sure that you are getting what you need.

Absolutely! We love to help mothers in the privacy of their own homes.
Many new mothers find that having an in-home consultation is much more relaxing - especially moms-of-multiples and mothers who’ve had Ceasarian Sections. The Lactation Consultant can help you to find the most comfortable positions for breastfeeding, using your own chair, recliner, pillows, etc; and also give tips on breastfeeding more efficiently.

 

One adult-sized bath towel, two cloth diapers or burp cloths, a plastic bag for dirty diapers, a bottle of water and snack for mom, the name, address, phone and fax number of your OB/GYN and Pediatrican or Heath Care Provider. Please bring any breastfeeding aids that you were given in the hospital or purchased, such as nipple shields, syringes, pump, etc. Please total your daily feeding logs.

The consultant will ask you: How many times has your baby gone to breast in the past 24-hrs and for about how long has your baby fed? How many times have you pumped in a 24-hr period? How many minutes are you pumping and how much milk did you obtain in total, all pumpings combined? What kind of pump are you using? How much breast milk have you fed to your baby by bottle in the past 24-hrs? How much formula have you fed to your baby in the past 24-hrs?

 

If you are supplementing your baby, please bring enough breastmilk or formula for a feeding. We encourage a support person to attend. Some families like to bring their video camera to record the session, to have as their own personal teaching tape. Ideally, your baby should be hungry, not ravenous, when you come. Please feel free to bring a list of questions. We love lists! They help us make sure that we are meeting your needs.

 

Our Board Certified Lactation Consultants conduct a comprehensive, clinical evaluation of the infant's feeding. During consultation, a maternal and infant health history is taken. The consultant will conduct a breast assessment for lactation. There is close observation, and assessment of the infant's breastfeeding. Pre-and post-feed weight checks are performed to accurately measure the infant's milk intake. The consultant will then do an analysis of the information gathered and develop a clear and concise care plan. A report of findings will be given to your health care provider(s). Unlimited phone follow-up is available at no additional charge. We offer free follow-up weight checks on Mondays and Thursdays from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM and Saturdays from 10 AM - 11 AM. We consider it a privilege to help you and your family meet your breastfeeding goals.

To schedule a consultation, please call us at (703) 425-BABY (2229). If the answering machine comes on during normal business hours it means that we are on the line. Please leave your name and number (repeat it) so that we may contact you promptly.

Our new office is nestled between Old Town Fairfax and George Mason University at West Drive and Chainbridge Road. We are in a ground-level suite with a private entrance, and free, easy parking. Click Here for a Printable Map!