When to Call an IBCLC (and What Makes Us Different)

3–4 minutes

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By Brianne Taggart, RN, IBCLC + Founder of Breezy Babies

You’re breastfeeding and something feels…off.
Your baby’s not latching well.
Your nipples hurt (a lot).
You’re not sure if baby’s getting enough.
You’re wondering if it’s time to give a bottle—or maybe how to introduce one without derailing your whole feeding plan.

Here’s the good news:
You don’t have to figure it out alone.
This is exactly what an IBCLC is trained for.


What Is an IBCLC, Anyway?

Let’s break it down. IBCLC stands for:

International Board Certified Lactation Consultant
(Yes, it’s a mouthful. Yes, we worked really hard to earn those letters.)

An IBCLC is the gold standard in lactation care. We’re not just passionate about breastfeeding—we’re trained, tested, and certified to support it at a clinical level.


How Is an IBCLC Different From Other Breastfeeding Support?

There are lots of amazing people supporting families on their feeding journeys—peer counselors, doulas, nurses, breastfeeding educators, and more. But here’s what sets IBCLCs apart:

IBCLCs:

  • Complete hundreds of hours of hands-on lactation-specific clinical training
  • Pass a rigorous board exam
  • Are qualified to assess, diagnose, and manage complex feeding issues
  • Stay up-to-date with continuing education
  • Collaborate with pediatricians, ENTs, chiropractors, and other providers as needed
  • Provide care that’s both evidence-based and personalized

When should you definitely call an IBCLC? I’m glad you asked.


When to Call an IBCLC

Honestly? Before you even give birth.

Prenatal consults can set you up for a smoother experience from the start. But even if you’re already in the thick of postpartum life, here are some common reasons families reach out to us:

  • Painful latching or nipple damage
  • Concerns about milk supply (too low or too much)
  • Slow weight gain in baby
  • Plugged ducts, engorgement, or mastitis
  • Transitioning back to work and pumping
  • Bottle refusal or nipple confusion
  • Tongue/lip tie questions
  • Twins, preemies, NICU grads
  • Weaning support (yes, we help with that too!)
  • And honestly? Even just to get reassurance that you’re doing okay.

Whatever stage you’re at—newborn, six months in, or even toddler nursing—we’re here.


Where Breezy Babies Offers In-Person Care

Our IBCLC team is based in Utah and covers a wide area with in-home and office visits, including:

  • Salt Lake County (Sandy, Draper, South Jordan, Riverton, Herriman, etc.)
  • Utah County (Lehi, American Fork, Orem, Provo, and more)
  • Davis County
  • Weber County
  • St George
  • And other surrounding areas!

We also offer telehealth consults for families throughout Utah, across the U.S., and internationally. Yes—virtual visits really can be just as helpful, and many are covered by insurance.


Will Insurance Cover an IBCLC?

We get this question all the time, and the answer is… probably!

Breezy Babies is in-network with several major insurance companies, and you may be eligible for multiple fully covered visits with no out-of-pocket cost.

Here’s how to check:

  1. Head to our website: www.breezybabies.com
  2. Click the “Book a Consult” button
  3. Follow the prompts to see if your insurance qualifies for free lactation visits

Still have questions? Text us at 801-513-3255, and we’ll help you figure it out.


You Deserve Breastfeeding Support That Feels Like a Lifeline

Not guilt.
Not guessing.
Just expert care, from a team that gets it—and meets you where you are.

So if you’re feeling stuck, stressed, or just not sure what’s normal… it’s time to call an IBCLC.


Breezy Babies Resources:

You were never meant to do this alone—and now, you don’t have to.

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