The Breastfeeding Specialist You've Never Heard Of (But Desperately Need) | 258

Stephanie brings a unique perspective to breastfeeding and postpartum support by combining occupational therapy expertise with lactation consulting. After 9+ years in the NICU and her own breastfeeding journey with her premature son in 2023, she's committed to helping families navigate lactation and infant development with confidence and compassion. In this episode, we talk about what a session with Stephanie looks like, prenatal prep, postpartum red flags, and why asking for help isn't optional—it's essential. Key TakeawaysBefore Baby Arrives: 3 Powerful Prenatal ChoicesTake a prenatal lactation class — Most insurance covers it. Being prepped gives you options and confidence.Get your breast pump early (33-34 weeks) — Insurance usually covers it. Don't wait until you need it.Leverage your insurance — Most plans cover prenatal classes AND pumps. That's free education and equipment.After Baby Arrives: 3 Powerful Reasons to Ask for HelpAsk for help. You need rest. You need support. There's no medal for doing it alone.If you're experiencing pain, reach out immediately. Pain is NOT normal. A qualified IBCLC can help.If something feels off with baby, get assessed. Clicking, gulping, arching, popping on and off—reach out to a professional."You don't have to push through the pain. You don't have to do it alone. Ask for help, and let people come alongside you." - Stephanie Wong, Certified NICU OT & Lactation ConsultantWhat to Look for in a Lactation ConsultantSeek an IBCLC over a CLC. IBCLCs have more rigorous training standards.Consider booking postpartum support privately. Hospital LCs have time constraints; private sessions offer more thorough care.In-person or virtual? Both work. Choose what fits your life.More from Stephanie Wong, IBCLC:Stephanie's Practice: Lovely Littles TherapyInstagram & Website: @lovelylittlestherapy | lovelylittlestherapy.com Helpful Timestamps:00:00 Whole Family Lactation01:30 NICU Roots & Personal Journey04:15 What a Session Looks Like06:45 Prenatal Breastfeeding Prep13:31 Postpartum Tips + Myth Busting16:30 Red Flags When Breastfeeding19:19 Weight Checks Pediatrician Support21:35 Partners Bonding Beyond Bottles23:57 Where to Find StephanieJoin The Calm Labor Birth Bundle - everything you need from bump to baby! Use code POD50 for $50 off!Over 15k mamas have used our classes to prepare for a birth that they love 🤍⭐ Download immediately ⭐App available ⭐Life-time access⭐Connect w/ Trish: On InstagramOn YouTubeFor more pregnancy & birth education, subscribe to The Birth Experience on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Produced and Edited by Vaden Podcast Services