The connection between a Speech Language Pathologist and Certified Lactation Counselor
Speech Language Pathologists (SLP) and Certified Lactation Counselors (CLC) offer the perfect combination of knowledge, skills, and support for breastfeeding mothers and their infants. SLPs focus on the clinical aspects of feeding, such as oral-motor function and swallowing, while CLCs provide comprehensive education, emotional support, and practical solutions for breastfeeding. Together, they ensure that both mother and baby receive well-rounded, expert care, addressing every aspect of the lactation and feeding experience. Keep strolling to learn more about each scope of practice.
Speech Language Pathologist
SLPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat issues related to swallowing and feeding. Here's why they are vital in lactation support:
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Oral-Motor Skills:
​ SLPs are experts in the development and function of oral structures (such as the lips, tongue, and palate) that are key to breastfeeding. If an infant has difficulty latching, sucking, or swallowing, an SLP can assess whether there are any underlying issues with the baby's oral-motor skills.
Feeding and Swallowing Disorders:
SLPs are trained to identify problems such as weak suck, poor coordination of suck-swallow-breathe patterns, or issues like tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) and lip-tie, which can impede effective feeding.
Assessment of Feeding Behavior:
SLPs can evaluate how well an infant is feeding at the breast or from a bottle. They can assess how well the baby is coordinating the sucking, swallowing, and breathing processes, which are crucial for safe and effective feeding.
Treatment and Therapy
SLPs can work with both infants and mothers on improving feeding techniques. They may provide exercises or strategies to strengthen the baby’s oral muscles, improve latch, or help with transitioning from bottle to breast.
Certified Lactation Counselors
​CLCs are professionals who specialize in breastfeeding support. Here’s why they are integral to lactation support:
Breastfeeding Education and Support:
CLCs are skilled in educating mothers about proper latch techniques, positioning, and understanding the signs of effective milk transfer. They help new mothers gain confidence in their breastfeeding abilities.
Addressing Breastfeeding Issues:
CLCs help with common breastfeeding issues such as sore nipples, engorgement, low milk supply, plugged ducts, and mastitis. They can offer solutions and tips for managing or resolving these problems.
Emotional and Mental Support:
Breastfeeding can be an emotionally challenging experience for many mothers. CLCs provide emotional support and encouragement, offering reassurance to mothers who may be experiencing difficulties or self-doubt about their milk supply or feeding practices.
Breastfeeding and Pumping:
CLCs can guide mothers on how to successfully combine breastfeeding with pumping, helping them manage work-life balance or when needing to supplement with pumped milk.
Infant Feeding Plans:
CLCs can assess a mother's breastfeeding goals, provide tailored advice, and help create a plan for transitioning back to work or introducing solids, ensuring a smooth feeding experience for both mother and baby.
