Lactation Consultation Services

  • For an appointment with the Lactation Consultant, contact the Pediatrics Department at: 650-853-2992
  • For phone advice, you may contact Joanna directly at: 650-967-8715, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily
  • Contact your insurance company to determine if this is reimbursable service under your plan.
Why is breastfeeding sometimes so difficult?
Breastfeeding should be natural, why are we having problems?

Breastfeeding is natural, but not instinctive. Breastfeeding must be learned. Sometimes that learning process is interrupted. Sometimes parents are not given good information. When those things happen, problems develop.

Even with the best preparation, breastfeeding can occasionally present serious problems. Some situations require prompt attention: a baby who cannot latch onto the breast (or does so only briefly); damaged nipples; a baby who never seems satisfied or does not gain weight adequately; multiple births; and premature births. Working with a lactation consultant can prevent and correct many problems.

What is a Certified Lactation Consultant?

A Certified Lactation Consultant is a specialist in breastfeeding with skills necessary to help families from birth through weaning. A lactation consultant works with your family and your baby's doctor to develop an effective feeding plan tailored to your baby.

An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (I.B.C.L.C.) is an individual who has achieved the high levels of clinical and theoretical knowledge required to practice competently and safely in the
breastfeeding field. A minimum of 2,500 hours of breastfeeding counseling experience are required prior to certification.

New Parents Have 101 Questions About Breastfeeding. A Lactation Consultant Can Help.

Some common questions a lactation consultant can answer are:
  • How do I help my baby latch onto my breast?
  • Why does my baby fall asleep at my breast and then cry when I put him/her down?
  • How can I prevent or cure painful nipples?
  • How can I reduce breast engorgement?
  • How can my baby gain more weight while breastfeeding?
  • How do I know when my baby is hungry?
  • How can I increase my milk supply?
  • How can the father help?
  • How do I know if my baby is getting enough milk?
  • What should I do if my baby sleeps too much?
  • When should I introduce a bottle of breast milk?
  • How do I express milk by hand?
  • Should I use a breast pump?
  • How can I tell if my baby is sucking correctly?
  • Should I use a pacifier? Formula supplements?

Joanna Koch has been working since 1987 with breastfeeding families in our community. She adopts a flexible approach and will develop a practical feeding plan for your baby. You will quickly recognize her special ability to build your confidence in feeding your baby. She firmly believes that feeding a baby should be a pleasant experience for all involved and works with families to achieve that goal. Palo Alto Medical Foundation pediatric and family practice physicians provide necessary medical backup.