Accessing Lactation Consultant Support for Your Patients

Information for General Practitioners

Breastfeeding challenges are common and can significantly impact maternal and infant health. When additional breastfeeding support is required, General Practitioners can refer women to appropriately qualified lactation consultants and breastfeeding medicine providers.

Finding a Lactation Consultant

Lactation Consultants of Australia and New Zealand (LCANZ)

The Lactation Consultants of Australia and New Zealand (LCANZ) website provides a directory of International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) who offer services in private practice.

To locate a lactation consultant:

1. Visit the LCANZ website.
2. On the home page, select "Find a Lactation Consultant."
3. Enter the patient's postcode.
4. A list of lactation consultants practising in the local area will be displayed.

This directory is a useful resource for identifying private lactation support services close to a patient's home.

Breastfeeding Medicine Providers

Some General Practitioners have additional qualifications in breastfeeding and lactation management, including International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) credentials.

Breastfeeding medicine practitioners may be identified through:

• The Breastfeeding Medicine website.
• The IBCLC directory and professional networks.

These clinicians can provide comprehensive assessment and management of complex breastfeeding and lactation issues, including maternal and infant medical concerns.

Karitane Breastfeeding Support

Karitane offers breastfeeding support services for families and can provide:

• Free virtual breastfeeding consultations.
• Support with attachment and positioning.
• Assistance with milk supply concerns.
• Guidance for common breastfeeding challenges.

Contact Details

Karitane Virtual Breastfeeding Clinic

• Phone: 1300 227 464
• Email: krtne-onlineenquiries@health.nsw.gov.au
• Website: https://karitane.com.au/service/virtual-breastfeeding-clinic/

Families can self-refer and book a free one-hour online consultation with a qualified lactation consultant, midwife, or child and family health nurse.

Karitane services may be particularly valuable for families who are unable to attend face-to-face appointments or who require timely access to breastfeeding support.

Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA)

The Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) provides evidence-based breastfeeding information and support for families.

The ABA website includes access to breastfeeding resources and links to professional lactation support services, including the LCANZ directory.

ABA services include:

• Telephone breastfeeding support.
• Online information and education.
• Parent support groups.
• Referrals to additional breastfeeding support services where appropriate.

Early referral to qualified breastfeeding professionals can improve breastfeeding outcomes and support families to achieve their infant feeding goals.