Birth Journeys - Childbirth Education and Breastfeeding Support

 Breastfeeding Support

Do you need help?

sore nipples
poor latch
breast refusal
low milk supply
tongue tie
skin-to-skin care
night time feeding
public breastfeeding
baby wearing
fussy baby
pumping
starting solids
weaning

As an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant), I am available to provide breastfeeding support over the phone, via e-mail, and in person.  Scroll down to see the different costs and appointments available. 

Winter 2012 - Breastfeeding support is very limited due to full-time enrolment at McMaster.  Please send me an e-mail at sears.birthjourneys@gmail.com with your concerns and I will do my best to answer your questions.

Check with your health insurance provider - some insurance plans offered through work cover appointments with an IBCLC through their extended health coverage.

Unfortunately, OHIP does not cover breastfeeding support.  There are some free breastfeeding services in the Guelph area.  Please scroll down to the bottom of this page to find the free breastfeeding resources in the Guelph area. Dedicated lactation consultants must charge fees for their services in order continue to support breastfeeding mothers.

Prenatal Consultation - $70

A prenatal consultation involves a home visit during the last weeks of your pregnancy, ideally before 37 weeks gestation.  Over the course of 1 hour, we will discuss what to expect in the early days after your baby is born, how to support breastfeeding in the minutes and hours following baby's birth, and answer any questions you may have.  I'll leave you with handouts and resources to review at your leisure.

Breastfeeding Consultation - initial visit - $70

An initial breastfeeding consultation occurs after baby's birth and lasts1- 1.5 hours.  I will come to your home and gather information about the birth process, breastfeeding thus far, baby's elimination and sleep patterns, breast/nipple tenderness, and any techniques you have been using.  I will assist with the latching process, and advise you of any changes you could make to help support the breastfeeding, along with why those changes may help.  All advice is given based on your breastfeeding goals! 

Breastfeeding Consultation - follow-up visit - $60

A follow-up breastfeeding consultation occurs anytime after an initial consultation.  Follow-up visits often last 45 minutes-1 hour.  I will gather information from you about what has been working and what has not been working since the last visit.  We will review the latching process and look at any other changes that you can add at this time to improve your breastfeeding experience.



All-inclusive breastfeeding package deal - $160

The all-inclusive package deal allows you to pay up front and receive the support you need without worrying about paying me at each visit.  This is an excellent gift for doting grandparents to give to expectant parents, and a fabulous baby shower gift.  What better gift to receive than peace of mind when it comes to feeding your baby?  The all-inclusive deal includes a prenatal visit, an initial visit, and 1 follow-up visit. 


Phone and E-mail Breastfeeding support
Cost:  FREE for clients

Once I have completed an initial consultation with a Mom, then follow-up telephone and e-mail support is free.  Up in the middle of the night with questions?  Send me an e-mail and I'll get back to you ASAP.  If necessary, we'll set up a follow-up visit as soon as possible so you're back on your feet!


Free Breastfeeding Support Resources in the Guelph area

1. Wellington-Duffering-Guelph Public health:   If you are not contacted within 48 hours of your baby's birth by a public health nurse, please call:  KIDS LINE 519-846-2715 or 1 800-265-7293 ext. 3616 for a home visit.
2. Wellington-Duffering-Guelph Public health Drop-in breastfeeding clinic:
  • Monday and Friday afternoon 1-4 p.m. Shelldale Community Centre - portable20 Shelldale Crescent, Guelph WDG Public Health
3. Ontario Early Years Centre funds a lactation consultant who is available by appointment Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.  Consultations are held downtown at 176 Wyndham Street North.
To book an appointment, or for more information, please call (519) 821-6638 or email info@guelphchc.ca.

4.  La Leche League offers mother-to-mother support via monthly meetings and telephone support.  Meetings are held the one evening of every month from 7:30-9:30pm and the 2nd Friday afternoon of every month from 1-3pm at the Riverside Glen Retirement Home on Woodlawn avenue.  Call a Leader for latest details of meeting locations.  Please contact Nicole 836-0800,  Melissa 856-2446 and Teresa 829-2293 with any breastfeeding questions you may have.