Frequently Asked Questions
What kinds of breastfeeding problems can you help me with?
A common issue that I address is nipple pain, which can have many causes. Other problems I help to solve include: difficulty latching-on, supply issues, tongue-tie, plugged ducts/mastitis, back to work transition, pumping concerns, bottle feeding, weaning, and much more. A brief phone conversation precedes any consultation so that we I assess your needs.
For in-person visits, what safety protocols do you have in place to reduce the risk of Covid19 transmission?
All clients are screened for symptoms of Covid19 prior to any in-person visit. I have received all recommended Covid19 vaccines and boosters. I receive a yearly flu vaccine and I'm up to date on my Tdap vaccination as well. I will continue to follow health department recommendations for additional Covid19 vaccines. My office is located inside of The Family Room San Marino, a parenting education center that holds in-person classes. Masking is not required of teachers or patrons of The Family Room. For lactation consultations, I wear a medical-grade mask during the entire visit; my clients can mask or not depending on their preference. I run a HEPA air filter during every visit. I practice stringent hand hygiene before and after the consultation and wear gloves if direct contact with you or your baby is needed. All office surfaces (including vinyl pillows) are cleaned with 90% alcohol spray/wipes after each visit. Please contact me if you have additional questions about my safety protocols.
What is an IBCLC?
An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) acquires extensive clinical experience for certification, has passed a board exam, and must re-certify every five years. As the term “lactation consultant” is not legally protected, anyone can use that term to describe themself. Only with the IBCLC credential are you assured a baseline level of education and experience. To verify that your lactation consultant is an IBCLC, you can search this directory.
What should I expect during a lactation consultation?
Most consultations last about 1.5 hours and start with taking a full history (general health, pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding experience thus far), and may include observation of breastfeeding, adjustments to positioning and latch as needed, a breast exam, weighing your baby, an oral exam of your baby, observation of pumping, observation of and assistance with alternative feeding methods (bottle, eg), answering questions, etc.
How is your fee determined?
My fee includes phone and email follow-up, research as needed, a doctor’s report, a superbill to submit to insurance if needed, and documentation for your chart, all in addition to the hours I spend with you during the consultation.
Will my insurance cover your services?
Here is a good guide to getting insurance coverage for lactation consultations--your right under the Affordable Care Act.
Through a group practice that I work with, I am able to bill some insurance plans directly with no or a small out-of-pocket fee. I accept eligible plans from AETNA (PPO), Cigna (PPO), United Healthcare, and Oscar.
For all other insurance plans, payment in full (Venmo, cash, check, or credit card) is due at the time of service. I can provide a superbill for you to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement but I cannot guarantee reimbursement amounts as insurance company practices vary widely. I encourage you to contact your insurance provider directly to find out what the lactation benefits are for your specific plan.
How should I prepare for a consultation?
If at all possible, try to feed the baby 2 hours before your scheduled consultation time. Ideally, we will have some time to discuss your history and breastfeeding goals, weigh the baby (if in-person), etc. before your baby is ready to feed. I encourage you to bring one supportive adult (husband, partner, relative) with you to your office visit.
Do you offer rental breast pumps?
I do not provide pump rentals at this time. There are multiple retail locations in Los Angeles where a high-quality pump can be rented if necessary and I can help you locate one.