How to Find a Lactation Consultant with Insurance (or Without It!)

Let’s be honest: breastfeeding is hard. So many things need to go right to feed your baby—the latch, the position, and the letdown all have to coordinate perfectly…8-12 times per day. However, feeding your baby may not always go perfectly; when it doesn't, it is important to use available resources for help. 

If you decide to see a lactation consultant, you will have to find someone you like, figure out insurance (if you plan on using insurance), and then find the time to meet with the lactation consultant. There can be a lot of hurdles between you and getting the help you seek, but it doesn't need to be that hard. Getting professional help with breastfeeding is right at your fingertips; you just have to know where to look.

Understanding Lactation Consultants and Their Roles

First of all, what is a lactation consultant? Someone who is an International board-certified lactation consultant (IBCLC) is a healthcare professional who, through rigorous training (300-1,000 hours of clinical lactation support) and a board-certified exam, specializes in lactation. A Lactation consultant is the highest certification someone can receive in the lactation field and is considered the gold standard.

Other options exist beyond IBCLC, such as a certified lactation counselor (CLC) who receives at least 45 hours of training and passes an exam. Knowing who is available and what your insurance will cover can help you decide which provider is best for you.

Breastfeeding specialists can help you with anything related to breastfeeding, pumping, and feeding your baby. This includes but is not limited to discussing proper latching, supply issues, pumping issues, weaning, pain while breastfeeding and pumping, and weighed feeds. Some moms who have no problems with breastfeeding still see lactation consultants to have a general evaluation and guidance.

How to Find a Lactation Consultant Covered by Your Insurance

Great news! If you have insurance, you most likely have coverage to see an IBCLC. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) mandates that most health insurance plans (excluding those grandfathered in) cover breastfeeding support services such as lactation counseling and pump equipment.

A great place to start finding breastfeeding help is to simply Google “lactation consultant near me” and see the results flood in. Beyond that, there are resources you can use to find qualified IBCLCs near you, such as:

• Contact your provider for local recommendations.
• You can search for in-network IBCLC providers through your insurance or call your insurance company to request a list of providers.
• Contact your insurance and request an estimate for out-of-network providers.
• Use a website such as The Lactation Network that specifically works with insurance and matches you with an insurance-covered IBCLC.

You can also find breastfeeding consultants using national database search engines. Choose someone who you feel comfortable with and who can provide you the support you need. 

Finding a Lactation Specialist Without Insurance Coverage

Even without insurance coverage, it is possible to see a lactation consultant through a variety of media.

●       Local hospitals: Many hospitals have lactation consultants who may run free classes or support groups. This allows you to learn from an IBCLC and ask questions as needed without the hassle of insurance or out-of-pocket pay.

●       National Women’s Health and Breastfeeding helpline: There is a free hotline you can call anytime from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM ET Monday through Friday for breastfeeding support.  According to the website, specialists who answer the phone are trained as breastfeeding peer counselors.  They can be reached at 1-800-994-9662. Calls are offered in both English and Spanish.

●       There are also free and low-cost lactation support options such as WIC programs (if eligible), online and telehealth lactation support, Nonprofits, and community-based lactation consultants

Whether in-person, over the phone, or on a video call - just about every mom can benefit from speaking to a breastfeeding specialist.

How to Choose the Right Lactation Consultant

The right lactation consultant can make a world of difference in your breastfeeding journey. When choosing who to hire, is completely normal to ask questions before hiring. Consider their experience, what they specialize in, and how they connect with them. You can usually see lactation consultants via virtual visits, at a facility, or even in your own home. A good lactation consultant should make you feel heard and supported, not judged.

Take time to read reviews from other moms. Personal experiences can give insight into their approach and whether they’ll be a good fit for you. The right consultant should help you feel confident and empowered in your breastfeeding journey!

Additional Breastfeeding Resources for Moms

There are plenty of beneficial resources for breastfeeding moms, many of which can be found with a quick Google search. Here are a few ways you can connect with an IBCLC:

●       State Department of Women's Health: Your state may provide a health line available to women to call and ask questions about various topics, including breastfeeding.

●      LaLeche League: This organization provides nationwide support to breastfeeding moms through trained parent-led group meetings in local communities. 

●       Social Media: Now more than ever, IBCLCs are establishing a social media presence and bringing researched-backed education in short-form videos or posts. 

Breastfeeding is HARD, but that doesn't mean you have to figure it out alone. Take advantage of the available resources, whether it’s through insurance or community programs.

Nursing Queen wants to support you through your breastfeeding journey by providing comfortable and functional clothing for lactating moms like yourself. You can join the Nursing Queen Clothing VIP Group and connect with other breastfeeding and pumping mamas for virtual support. You got this, and one way you can empower yourself is by seeing a lactation consultant for your breastfeeding journey.