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Breastfeeding Counseling

Breastfeeding Counseling with a CLC

The Registered Dietitian at ZEST Nutrition is also a Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC). A CLC has taken 52 hours of education in lactation and  

passed an exam. 

 

Certification holders have demonstrated competence in the lactation skills, knowledge and attitudes that are essential to helping women and have agreed to comply with The Academy of Lactation Policy and Practice code of ethics.

 

CLC certification means that a person has received training and competency verification in breastfeeding and human lactation support, including assessing the latching and feeding process, providing corrective interventions, counseling mothers, understanding and applying knowledge of milk production including in special circumstances and other commonly encountered situations.

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What to Expect from Breastfeeding Counseling

Breastfeeding Counseling is generally provided via telehealth. A link is provided to a secure HIPAA-compliant platform. The client does not need to download anything; simply click the link provided and allow access to your camera and mic. 

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Breastfeeding Counseling can also be provided over the phone if preferred. 

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If the client is in the Santa Cruz area and would like the CLC to come to their home, this may be an option. 

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The CLC is hands-off. No uncomfortable touching is necessary. The CLC is available to listen to mom's concerns, offer suggestions for latching and positioning, and educate on milk supply and other basic questions. 

Image by Alexander Dummer
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Other Prenatal and Infant Services

As both a Registered Dietitian and a CLC, Colleen has the unique ability to walk a woman through her nutritional needs during pregnancy.

 

Prenatal Nutrition Counseling may include topics such as:

  • easing constipation or heartburn 

  • foods that support fetal development 

  • appropriate weight gain 

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Breastfeeding questions before and after birth can be answered such as: 

  • Why is skin-to-skin important?

  • How do I prepare my breasts for breastfeeding? 

  • Which foods, if any, will increase my milk supply? 

  • Can I have a drink if I'm breastfeeding?

  • How do I get my baby to latch without it hurting?

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And infant nutrition counseling is vital! Infant Nutrition Classes and 1-on-1 sessions cover: 

  • Formula vs. breastmilk 

  • When to introduce solid foods 

  • How to help prevent food allergies in children 

 

These are some of Colleen's favorite topics! 

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Nutrition counseling and continuity of care for the entire lifecycle is available! 

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