Frequently Asked Questions
Commonly Asked Breastfeeding Questions
What if I don’t have any milk when my baby comes?
It’s normal to feel concerned, but rest assured that your body is designed to provide colostrum in the first few days after birth. Colostrum is a thick, nutrient-rich substance that meets your baby’s early needs while your milk transitions. It’s small in quantity but perfect for your baby’s tiny stomach.
How do I know if my baby is getting enough to eat?
In the early days, we monitor your baby’s weight, diaper output, and feeding patterns to ensure they’re getting enough. Key indicators include:
Regular wet and dirty diapers.
Gradual weight gain after the initial loss. An IBCLC can guide you through these early signs and help you feel confident in your feeding journey.
My baby lost weight. Should I be worried?
Most babies lose some weight in the first few days after birth. However, it’s important to determine if the weight loss is within normal limits or if interventions are needed. Factors we consider include:
Baby’s diaper output and day of life.
Birth method (C-section vs. vaginal delivery).
Labor length and use of medications like Pitocin or IV fluids.
First-time parent vs. previous breastfeeding experience.
Milk transition timing and other health considerations. An IBCLC can assess these factors and provide a tailored plan to support you and your baby.
Help! My pediatrician is concerned about my baby and said I need to supplement with formula!
Formula or donor milk can sometimes be a very necessary tool while we figure out the root cause. Unfortunately, a lot of pediatricians do not follow up that suggestion with also recommending a visit to an IBCLC. If your baby requires additional nutrition, it is crucial to figure out why. An IBCLC can help you navigate this process and provide the support you need.
My pediatrician said I should start pumping and giving that milk to my baby in addition to breastfeeding. What should I do?
This can be really stressful! An IBCLC is a great resource to help you navigate triple feeding. This should never be a long-term solution and should only be a short-term tool to get you back on track.
I just don’t feel like feeding is going how I want it to or expected. Something isn’t right.
I’m here to take your concerns seriously even if it feels like nobody else does. You see this baby every day. I am here to help you get to the root issue and figure out how to get feeding where you want it to be.
I don’t feel like anything in particular is wrong, I just want someone to make sure feeding is going well and to answer some basic questions. Can you do that?
Absolutely! I’m happy to help you with whatever questions you have! You don’t have to be struggling to make an appointment!
General Questions
What services do you offer?
At Thrive Together Lactation LLC, we provide personalized lactation consulting services to help you and your baby thrive together. Our offerings include prenatal consultations, postpartum support, and guidance for addressing challenges such as latch issues, milk supply concerns, and more.
What areas do you serve?
We serve all of St. Charles County and locations within 20 miles of O'Fallon, MO. Visits outside this radius require approval and include a $30 travel fee.
Are your services covered by insurance?
We work with Wildflower and The Lactation Network to provide coverage for most insurance companies. If you have Cigna insurance, please use Wildflower. Currently, no coverage is available for Medicaid or Tricare, but we offer military and Medicaid discounts upon request. For all other insurance plans, please click on The Lactation Network link to check your coverage.
Do you offer virtual consultations?
Not at this time, but it is a possibility for the future.
Do you ever do weekend visits or last-minute visits?
I know sometimes you get home from the hospital and feel like everything is falling apart. I can sometimes accommodate last-minute visits, including evenings and weekends, when you don’t feel like it can wait until the next available appointment slot. Call or text me! There is an additional $100 fee for this emergent service.
Prenatal Questions
Why should I schedule a prenatal lactation consultation?
Breastfeeding success starts before your baby arrives. A prenatal consultation can help you prepare by addressing topics like:
Understanding how milk supply is established.
Recognizing signs of a good latch.
Creating a plan for specific challenges, such as history of low supply, previous breastfeeding difficulties, or certain medical conditions.
What should I expect during a prenatal visit?
We will discuss your goals, review your medical and breastfeeding history, and develop a personalized plan to support you and your baby. You’ll leave with confidence and actionable strategies for your breastfeeding journey.
Postpartum Questions
What happens during a postpartum lactation consultation?
During a postpartum visit, we assess feeding techniques, check latch and positioning, evaluate milk supply, and provide solutions to address challenges. Every session is customized to your unique needs.
How long does a consultation last?
Most consultations last 60-120 minutes to ensure comprehensive care and support.
What should I have ready for a home visit?
A comfortable space for feeding.
Any breastfeeding supplies you’re using, such as pillows or pumps.
Your baby’s most recent weight, if available.
Payment and Policies
How much do your services cost?
We offer a flat fee for visits within our service area. Additional fees apply for travel outside the standard radius. Please contact us for detailed pricing. Many visits are covered through insurance.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellations made within 24 hours of the appointment may incur a fee. Please let us know as soon as possible if you need to reschedule.
How can I pay for services?
We accept cash, credit/debit cards, and HSA/FSA cards, and checks.
Special Topics
Do you help with pumping and returning to work?
Yes, we provide guidance on using pumps, building a freezer stash, and creating a plan for returning to work while maintaining your milk supply.
Can you support families with unique challenges?
Absolutely. We’re experienced in supporting families with premature infants, multiples, tongue/lip ties, and other complex situations. Every family is unique, and we tailor our care to your circumstances.
Do you work with non-breastfeeding parents?
Yes, we support all feeding journeys, including chestfeeding, induced lactation, and combination feeding. Our goal is to help you meet your feeding goals in a way that works for your family.