Do you offer in-home lactation visits in Boston and the North Shore?

Yes. Strong Nest Consulting offers in-home lactation support throughout Boston, the North Shore, and Greater Boston, as well as virtual consults.

Do you offer virtual lactation consults?

Yes. Virtual consults are available and can be a flexible option for many feeding and pumping concerns.

What issues do you help with in lactation consults?

Support commonly includes latch pain, low milk supply concerns, pumping and return-to-work plans, bottle and paced feeding strategies, oversupply/forceful letdown, slow weight gain concerns, and weaning.

What does postpartum doula support include?

Postpartum doula care may include newborn care education, feeding support, soothing techniques, partner support, light household help, and helping parents rest and recover.

When should I book postpartum doula support?

Many families book during pregnancy to secure preferred dates, but you can also reach out after birth. Availability varies.

How do I know whether I need lactation support or postpartum doula support?

If your main concerns are feeding (latch, pain, pumping, supply), start with lactation. If you need broader newborn/parent support and rest, postpartum doula care may be the best fit. Many families benefit from both.

Do you work with families who are combo-feeding or formula-feeding?

Yes. Support is tailored to your goals—breastfeeding, pumping, combo feeding, or formula feeding.

How do I get started?

Contact Strong Nest Consulting to share what’s going on and schedule the best next step—lactation consult, postpartum doula shift, or a class.

How do you get a good latch for breastfeeding? — Strong Nest Lactation & Doula Support

Getting a good latch

Getting a good latch is key to good milk production, and having a positive breastfeeding experience. A good latch means that you and your baby are comfortable and milk can be transferred more efficiently.

It is normal to experience some sensitivity in the first few days feeding (think of when you rake leaves first time in months– your hands are a bit more sensitive). However, it should not hurt beyond the first few seconds of the latch, and beyond the first few days.

Three steps to getting a good latch:

Adjust your body: First get comfy and have all your muscles relax (think of your favorite position to read a book or watch a show). Laid back on the couch or comfy in a recliner, or in bed.
Adjust your baby: Bring your baby to you or have a loved one hand the baby to you, so that you can maintain your comfy position. Make sure their belly is against your belly. A good latch starts at the hips. Remember “hips to lips” should aligned and their belly is against your belly. If you see the baby’s belly button, turn their hips against you. Your baby’s arms should be on either side of your breast, helping them get nice and closer for a deep latch.
Adjust your breast: Hold your breast like a sandwich, your hands compressing the breast into the baby’s mouth.