Feeding Support FAQs
-
An IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) is a specialist in the clinical management of breastfeeding/chestfeeding and human lactation. This certification is the only globally recognised and regulated lactation specific qualification. IBCLCs can come from a wide range of background both medical and non-medical and can work across a variety of settings. There are extensive training and clinical practice requirements that need to be met before a prospective IBCLC can become certified through sitting a rigorous international board exam. IBCLCs are bound by a code of professional conduct and are required to recertify every 5 years showing commitment to ongoing professional development.
As an IBCLC, I am trained to support families through a wide range of infant feeding situations, from routine breastfeeding support to more complex challenges. My role is to help you reach your feeding goals—whatever they may be—with compassion, evidence-based care, and non-judgmental support.
Here’s how I can help:
Antenatal education to prepare you for breastfeeding before your baby arrives
Latching and positioning support to ensure a comfortable and effective feed
Assessing milk supply (low or oversupply) and helping regulate it
Pain management related to sore nipples, engorgement, or other discomforts
Pumping guidance, including flange sizing, schedules, and milk storage
Supporting bottle feeding, combo feeding, or formula use when needed
Feeding challenges, such as tongue-tie, reflux, slow weight gain, or baby refusing the breast
Back-to-work planning and maintaining supply during separation
Weaning support, whether planned or unexpected
My goal is to walk alongside you—whether you're a first-time parent or growing your family again—and help make feeding your baby feel more manageable, informed, and empowered.
-
You can book a consultation:
During pregnancy (to prepare and feel confident)
In the early days after birth (to establish feeding)
Anytime you're facing feeding challenges or have questions
It’s never too early or too late to reach out.
-
Yes! I offer both:
In-home visits (depending on your location)
Virtual consultations for flexible, convenient support
We’ll find the option that works best for you and your family.
-
A consultation is a safe, supportive space where we focus entirely on you, your baby, and your feeding goals—whether that’s breastfeeding, bottle feeding, pumping, or a combination.
Here’s what you can expect during a typical consultation:
📝 1. We Start with a Chat
We begin by discussing your birth and feeding history, current challenges, and any concerns or questions you have. This helps me understand the full picture and tailor my support to your unique situation.
👶 2. Baby Feeding Observation
If possible, I’ll observe a feed (breast or bottle) to assess:
Latch and positioning
Sucking and swallowing
Milk transfer
Baby’s cues and behavior
This part is gentle and unrushed. I'm watching how your baby feeds, not judging how you feed.
🧠 3. Assessment & Clinical Support
I may also assess:
Nipple condition or breast anatomy
Your baby’s oral anatomy (e.g., signs of tongue-tie or tension)
Pumping equipment and flange sizing, if you’re pumping
Everything is explained step by step, and your comfort always comes first.
📋 4. Personalized Plan
Together, we’ll create a realistic, evidence-based care plan that supports your goals. You’ll leave with clear next steps, helpful resources, and the confidence that you’re not alone.
💬 5. Follow-Up & Ongoing Support
You’ll receive a written summary of what we discussed, and we can have Whats App/Txt contact for up to 48hrs after a consultation.
Follow Up support sessions are also available—you don’t have to figure this out alone.
-
Once you have been in touch via email (see contact me page for details) I will send you some initial intake forms to complete. Once you have returned these, you will receive an invoice via email detailing expected payment.
Your appointment will be held for 24hrs during which time your payment is due. If payment is not received during this time your appointment may be released.
Payment can be made via PayPal or direct bank transfer - whichever works best for you.
-
Absolutely not! As a lactation consultant, I am here to support you no matter what your feeding journey looks like and help you reach goals that work for you and your family.
-
My IBCLC qualification does not mean that I am a qualified tongue tie practitioner. I can however, perform an oral assessment of your baby and discuss the findings with you and provide you with referral pathway if necessary.
I would strongly advise you to seek support from a qualified tongue tie practitioner if problems related to suspected tongue tie persist - you can access details of qualified practitioners in your area at the Association of Tongue Tie Practitioners
Baby Massage FAQs
-
The IAIM (International Association of Infant Massage) programme is a parent-led, nurturing touch and communication programme designed to promote bonding, relaxation, and healthy development for babies. As a Certified Infant Massage Instructor (CIMI) I am trained to support and guide you through learning gentle, effective massage techniques for your baby. You as the parent/caregiver will be the one who massages your little one.
-
This course is suitable for babies from birth up to around 12 months, or until they are actively crawling. If your baby is very active, feel free to contact us to see if this course will still be suitable for you both.
-
Each session builds on the previous week and includes:
A step-by-step teaching of massage strokes for different body parts
Time for questions and discussion on parenting topics (e.g., sleep, colic, crying, etc.)
A relaxed, baby-led environment where you can feed, change, or comfort your baby as needed
Handouts and support materials to help you practise at home
-
Baby massage may help with:
Bonding and attachment
Relief from colic, wind, and constipation
Improved sleep patterns
Supporting digestion and circulation
Boosting your baby’s immune and nervous systems
Enhancing your confidence as a parent/caregiver
-
No prior experience is needed. The course is designed to be beginner-friendly and completely guided by a Certified Infant Massage Instructor (CIMI).
-
Please bring:
A towel or blanket for your baby to lie on - massage mats will be provided
A change of clothes, nappies, and any other baby essentials
A bottle or snacks if your baby is bottle-fed or weaning
We will provide organic, cold-pressed massage oil and handouts each week.
-
That’s completely ok and very normal! The class is entirely baby-led. You can feed, change, cuddle, or let your baby sleep whenever they need to. You’ll still be able to learn by watching and practising the strokes later at home.
-
Yes, baby massage is generally safe for all healthy babies. If your baby has any specific medical needs or conditions, please speak to your healthcare provider first and let your instructor know before the course begins.
-
Please contact us for current pricing. The cost covers:
5 weekly sessions
Course handouts and take-home materials
Organic massage oil and personalised welcome pack
Refreshments
Ongoing support during the course
-
You can book your place by contacting via hello@thegentlenest.co.uk
Spaces are limited to keep the group small and supportive, so early booking is recommended.
-
If you miss a session, I’ll do my best to help you catch up through recap materials or a short one-to-one. Let me know as soon as possible so I can support you.

