Frequently Asked Questions About Breastfeeding Support and Consultations
Got questions about breastfeeding, how consultations work, or what to expect? You’re not alone. This page answers the most common questions parents ask about breastfeeding support, online consultations, and navigating breastfeeding difficulties.
If your question isn’t answered here, don’t hesitate to get in touch — I’m happy to help.
You may have a lot of unanswered questions. Hopefully I can answer most of them here. Should you have any more questions befor sceduling an appintment with me please don’t hesitate to contact me.
What is a lactation consultant?
A lactation consultant is a healthcare professional certified as International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLC), who specializes in the clinical management of breastfeeding.
IBCLC certification requires thousands of hours of experience and training in anatomy, physiology, sociology, psychology or counselling, child development, nutrition, and medical terminology.
IBCLCs have a unique body of knowledge and skill to provide breastfeeding and lactation care. Having access to an ICBLC increases breastfeeding rates.
The IBCLC is the only certification that requires clinical experience in lactation as a prerequisite to becoming certified. The IBCLC certification requires renewal through education or examination every 5 years.
How Can You Verify An IBCLC?
You can look up if an IBCLC is certified here: Public Registry.
What is telehealth?
Telehealth is an interaction between a client and a healthcare provider where clinical information and services are delivered using telecommunications technology, for example a video or telephone call.
Telehealth has been clinically proven to be a safe and cost-effective way of providing medical care when used under expert-developed guidelines and best practices. For more information, look here Research – ATA (americantelemed.org)
When is the best time to schedule an appointment with Dorle Verrinder lactation consultant?
Many of my clients call about general concerns or for advice, or to feel more confident about breastfeeding. I can also help you work through some very specific issues such as:
- Your baby isn’t gaining weight or enough weight.
- Your breasts or nipples hurt.
- Your baby is not latching or you always have to struggle before baby latches.
- You have twins or triplets.
- You had breast or nipple surgery, breast implants, or a mastectomy.
I am here to help. Book an appointment today.
Do you prescribe medications?
No, lactation consultants do not prescribe medications. For lactation-related concerns that may require a prescription, I would refer you to your medical provider.
What do you mean by a virtual appointment?
A virtual appointment means all your healthcare is delivered via live two-way audio or video telecommunication technology from the comfort of your home.
Do you take medical aid / private health insurance?
I can claim from all Namibian medical aid providers, as a dietitian, which for most medical aids means it comes out of your ‘auxiliary’ benefits. A copayment for each consultations applies.
If you have medical aid cover from another country, you will need to pay the consultation yourself, but I will provide you with an invoice that lists all relevant information required by medical aid providers in order to be able to reimburse you. This includes your date of birth, ICD 10 code, name of your healthcare provider, purpose of the consultation and my qualifications.
Why do you ask for my medical history?
The more I know about you and your baby’s medical history before we speak, the more it helps to make the care we provide more effective.
Can another adult join me during the consultation?
Yes! It can help you to have a support person to join you. I will check with you at the beginning of the consult whether you are happy for that person to be present.
How can I change or cancel my appointment?
You can click on the link in the email you receive to confirm or cancel or change your appointment.
Do I need a breast pump to be able to make an appointment?
No you do not need to have a breast pump. If you have questions about or problems with your pump (for example if pumping hurts or is not working well), then you need to have your pump nearby so we can assist as needed.
Late Cancellation/No Show Policy
I know this is a difficult time for you, and sometimes your circumstances change at short notice. Therefore it is okay to change your appointment up to 4 hours before your scheduled time. Changes less than 4 hours before your appointment or late arrivals may incur a fee of N$250.