Frequently Asked Questions

Explore answers to frequently asked questions about breastfeeding, lactation support, pumping, milk supply, and newborn feeding. Get expert guidance from a trusted lactation consultant to help you navigate your journey with confidence.

What Is An IBCLC?

An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is a highly trained healthcare professional who specializes in the clinical management of breastfeeding and lactation. IBCLCs provide expert support for issues such as latching difficulties, milk supply concerns, infant weight gain, and overall breastfeeding success. They work with families to create personalized care plans and help mothers confidently meet their breastfeeding goals.

Becoming an IBCLC requires advanced education, hands-on clinical training, and certification. The process includes:

  • Completing required health science coursework
  • Finishing at least 90 hours of lactation-specific education
  • Gaining supervised clinical experience in breastfeeding support
  • Passing the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) certification exam


IBCLCs are highly qualified professionals trained to provide expert breastfeeding and lactation support for mothers and infants.

The short answer is no—breastfeeding should not be painful. While some mild tenderness can occur in the early days, ongoing or intense pain is often a sign that something isn’t quite right.

Common causes of breastfeeding pain may include latching issues, nipple damage, engorgement, or other lactation challenges.

If you’re experiencing pain while breastfeeding, we recommend scheduling an appointment with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). A personalized assessment can help identify the cause and provide the support you need for a more comfortable and successful breastfeeding experience.

Newborns should typically be breastfed on demand, meaning you feed your baby whenever they show signs of hunger. Most babies nurse about 8–12 times within a 24-hour period.

Frequent breastfeeding supports healthy weight gain, helps establish your milk supply, and ensures your baby is getting enough nutrition. Early hunger cues may include rooting, sucking on hands, or increased alertness—crying is often a late sign of hunger.

If you have concerns about feeding frequency or your baby’s intake, a lactation consultant can provide personalized guidance and support.

Yes—many insurance plans cover lactation consulting services. LactationNow partners with The Lactation Network and Wildflower Health to help families access covered care.

Depending on your plan, you may qualify for up to six visits with little to no out-of-pocket cost.

To check your eligibility, simply use the insurance verification links on our Home page or Breastfeeding Services page. The process is quick and helps you understand your coverage before booking.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends exclusively breastfeeding for the first 6 months of your baby’s life. After that, breastfeeding can continue alongside the introduction of solid foods for at least 12 months—or longer, as long as both mother and baby choose.

Breastfeeding duration can vary for every family, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. A lactation consultant can help you create a plan that supports your goals, your baby’s needs, and your lifestyle.

We understand that breastfeeding challenges can be time-sensitive, and getting support quickly matters. LactationNow strives to provide prompt lactation consulting services and typically responds to all inquiries within 24–48 hours.

If you need help with breastfeeding, latching, milk supply, or newborn feeding concerns, we encourage you to reach out as soon as possible so we can connect you with the support you need.

A clogged (or plugged) milk duct occurs when breast milk flow becomes blocked in a specific area of the breast. This can happen at the nipple (sometimes called a milk blister or bleb) or deeper within the milk ducts.

Common signs of a clogged milk duct include:

  • A tender or painful lump in one area of the breast
  • Swelling or firmness in the affected area
  • Discomfort that develops gradually
  • Symptoms typically affecting only one breast

Clogged ducts are a common breastfeeding issue and can often be resolved with proper care. If symptoms persist or worsen, a lactation consultant can help assess the cause and prevent further complications.

Mastitis is inflammation of breast tissue that may involve an infection and is most common during breastfeeding (lactation mastitis).

Common symptoms of mastitis include:

  • Breast pain or tenderness
  • Swelling in the breast
  • Warmth and redness, often in a specific area
  • Flu-like symptoms such as fever and chills
  • Fatigue or feeling unwell

Mastitis can develop quickly and may require prompt treatment to prevent complications. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to seek guidance from a healthcare provider or lactation consultant as soon as possible.

According to Mayo Clinic, early care and support can help you recover more quickly and continue your breastfeeding journey comfortably.

Using the correct breast pump flange size is essential for comfort, efficient milk removal, and maximizing pumping output. A flange that is too small or too large can lead to pain, nipple damage, and reduced milk supply.

Flange sizing is based on your nipple measurement and may change over time, especially in the early postpartum period.

If you’re unsure which size is right for you, we can help. LactationNow offers quick 15-minute telehealth appointments to assess your fit and ensure you’re pumping comfortably and effectively.

Choosing the best breast pump depends on your lifestyle, feeding goals, and how often you plan to pump. Factors like portability, suction strength, comfort, and insurance coverage all play a role in finding the right fit.

Working with a lactation consultant can help you choose a breast pump that supports your milk supply and makes pumping more efficient and comfortable.

Schedule a 45-minute consultation with LactationNow to receive personalized recommendations and ensure you have the best breast pump for your needs.

Many medications are safe to take while breastfeeding, but it’s important to verify each one to ensure it won’t affect your baby or milk supply. Safety can vary depending on the medication, dosage, and your individual situation.

LactationNow provides trusted resources and guidance to help you cross-reference medications and make informed decisions about breastfeeding and medication safety.

If you have questions about a specific medication, we recommend consulting with a lactation consultant or healthcare provider for personalized support.

Proper breast milk storage is essential for keeping your baby safe and ensuring the highest quality nutrition. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), freshly expressed or pumped breast milk can be safely stored:

  • At room temperature (77°F / 25°C or colder) for up to 4 hours
  • In the refrigerator for up to 4 days
  • In the freezer for about 6 months (best quality), or up to 12 months (acceptable)

While frozen breast milk remains safe beyond these timeframes, following recommended storage guidelines helps preserve nutrients and overall quality.

If you have questions about breast milk storage, thawing, or handling, a lactation consultant can provide personalized guidance to support your breastfeeding journey.

Helping a breastfed baby take a bottle can take time, patience, and the right approach. Every baby is different, and factors like timing, bottle type, feeding position, and caregiver involvement can all make a difference.

Common tips include introducing the bottle when your baby is calm, trying different nipples or flow rates, and having someone other than mom offer the bottle.

If your baby is refusing a bottle, LactationNow can help. Schedule an appointment to receive a personalized plan tailored to your baby’s needs and your feeding goals, so you can feel confident and supported through the transition.

Your body begins producing early breast milk (colostrum) during pregnancy, typically around 16–20 weeks. Colostrum is the first milk your baby receives at birth and is rich in nutrients and antibodies.

After delivery, your mature milk supply usually “comes in” within 3–5 days. During this time, you may notice your breasts feeling fuller, firmer, or warmer as milk production increases.

Every mother’s experience is different, and timing can vary slightly. If your milk seems delayed or you have concerns about your supply, a lactation consultant can help assess and support your breastfeeding journey.