Lactation Consultant in Singapore: When and Why You Need One

Breastfeeding is a beautiful gift you can offer your baby – something unique, nourishing, and deeply connected. But as many mothers quickly discover, something so natural doesn’t always come easily. Nipple pain, low milk supply, latching struggles, and the constant worry of whether your baby is getting enough can make the experience feel overwhelming at times.

In moments like these, what your heart truly needs is gentle guidance, compassion, and someone who really understands what you’re going through. A lactation consultant can offer exactly that.

Benefits of breast milk

Breastfeeding is often described as nature’s perfect start, and it truly is. Breast milk is filled with antibodies that help protect your baby from colds, tummy bugs, and other common childhood illnesses, while being gentle on his developing digestive system.

It also supports healthy brain and eye development and lowers the risk of allergies, eczema, and long-term conditions such as childhood obesity and diabetes.

Beyond the physical benefits, breastfeeding offers something just as precious. It brings closeness, warmth, and a deep sense of safety that helps your baby feel calm and connected in your arms.

And the benefits aren’t only for babies. Breastfeeding also supports your long-term well-being by lowering the risk of breast cancer and many other health conditions.

The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for all infants for the first six months of life. However, breastfeeding can be challenging for many mothers. That’s why Thomson ParentCraft Centre provides breastfeeding tips and home-care services to support new mothers.

Breastfeeding challenging

Many people believe breastfeeding should come naturally, that the moment your baby is placed in your arms, everything simply “works”. However, the truth is that breastfeeding is not instinctive for most mothers or babies.

You may find yourself facing challenges such as:

• Baby struggling to latch

• Painful or cracked nipples

• Breast engorgement or blocked ducts

• Uncertainty about whether baby is getting enough milk

• Anxiety, exhaustion, or conflicting advice from well-meaning family members

• Returning to work and trying to maintain milk supply

If any of these sounds familiar, please know you’re not alone and none of it means you’re failing. Breastfeeding is something both you and your baby learn together, step by step.

With the right breastfeeding support and a little time, feeding becomes smoother, and latching becomes easier, as you and your little one have both found your rhythm.

Do you really need a lactation consultation?

When you're in the middle of these challenges, it’s only natural to wish for someone who truly understands and can gently guide you and reassure you. That’s exactly where a lactation consultant can make all the difference.

A lactation consultant in Singapore can walk alongside you with steady, reassuring support. She can:

• Help your baby latch correctly

• Reduce nipple pain

• Improve milk transfer and support weight gain

• Prevent blocked ducts and mastitis

• Create a personalised feeding or pumping plan

• Support you emotionally, as motherhood is not meant to be done alone

A lactation consultant may support you through home visits or online consultations, offering practical, timely guidance wherever you are. As such, you feel supported and reassured, even on the days when things feel hardest.

Breastfeeding can shift from something overwhelming to something deeply bonding and joyful with the right guidance. Support is here for both you and your baby. Our lactation consultants will help you overcome the challenges and support you to enjoy a feeding journey filled with comfort, joy, and connection.Request an appointment with Thomson Medical today.

Case study: Supporting a first-time mom on her breastfeeding journey

Let’s discover how our lactation consultant Chen Li Qinat Thomson ParentCraft Centre's home-care service supports breastfeeding mothers like Ms Jamie, offering professional help to overcome common lactation issues.

Prenatal breastfeeding class

At 37 weeks pregnant, Jamie (not her real name) came to me to learn more about breastfeeding. As a new mom, we discussed a feeding plan to ensure her baby would be well-fed.

Jamie was also curious about harvesting colostrum, the nutrient-rich milk produced before birth, to give her baby the best start. During the consultation, we practised breast massage and expressing colostrum in preparation for the baby’s arrival.

Begin first feeds together

After Jamie delivered her baby at Thomson Medical, I visited her to support her breastfeeding journey. Together, we worked on latching and positioning techniques to ensure comfortable breastfeeding.

By following the plan we discussed earlier, and with proper latching techniques, Jamie was able to breastfeed without pain, which helped her avoid common complications like engorged breasts and cracked nipples.

The importance of a supportive partner

Breastfeeding may be a mother’s role, but successful breastfeeding is often a team effort. I taught her husband how to carry a newborn, assist with positioning during breastfeeding, change nappies, syringe-feed colostrum if their baby was too sleepy to nurse, burp, swaddle, and soothe the baby when crying.

Post-discharge support

After Jamie’s discharge from the hospital, I continued to support her and her family through home visits and follow-up appointments at the lactation clinic of Thomson Parentcraft Centre.

At that time, her baby had mild jaundice, which can make breastfeeding more difficult, as babies with jaundice tend to be sleepier and struggle with sucking and swallowing. We discussed alternative feeding plans, such as hand expressing or breast pumps for comfort when the baby was too sleepy to nurse actively.

With time and practice, Jamie’s baby developed a strong latch and fed well.

Return to work with confidence

Many mothers find it difficult to continue breastfeeding once they return to work.

For Jamie, we tailored a feeding and pumping plan around her busy schedule, helping her maintain a steady breast milk supply. With a bit of structure and support, she continued breastfeeding confidently long after maternity leave ended.

Her journey is a wonderful reminder that with the right help, mothers can overcome challenges and enjoy a meaningful breastfeeding experience.

When to seek doctor's help

While most breastfeeding issues can be resolved with guidance from a lactation consultant, there are times when you should consult a breast specialist.

Consider booking an appointment at Thomson Breast Centre if you experience:

• Persistent breast pain that doesn't improve with corrected latch or positioning

• Signs of mastitis (including fever, flu-like symptoms, hard lumps in your breasts) that don't resolve within 24-48 hours

• Nipple discharge when not breastfeeding

• Any changes in breast skin texture or colour

At Thomson Breast Centre, our breast specialists can provide comprehensive care to address your concerns and support your breastfeeding journey. Remember, seeking timely medical advice can help ensure the health of both you and your baby. Request an appointment today.

FAQ

Is it worth looking for lactation support?

A lactation consultant can assess your baby’s latch, ease nipple pain, help you establish or increase milk supply, and guide you through challenges that may feel overwhelming on your own. Even a single session can bring clarity, comfort, and renewed confidence in your feeding journey.

Are lactation consultants covered by insurance or subsidies?

Coverage varies across providers in Singapore. Some private insurance plans, maternity packages, or employer benefits may include partial reimbursement for lactation support. It’s best to check with your insurer or clinic so you know exactly what you’re eligible for.

How do I pick a lactation service in Singapore?

It’s ideal to choose someone with strong experience and an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) or someone who makes you feel safe, understood, and empowered.

Can a GP refer me to a lactation consultant?

Many GPs, obstetricians, and paediatricians in Singapore regularly refer mothers to lactation consultants when they need specialised breastfeeding guidance.

When should I start seeing a lactation consultant?

You can seek support at any time you feel you need help from healthcare professionals. Some mothers meet a consultant during pregnancy to prepare for breastfeeding, while others seek help in the first days or weeks after birth.

Can a lactation consultant help increase milk supply?

A lactation consultant can help identify why supply may be low, check your baby’s latch and milk transfer, and guide you through effective feeding or pumping routines. With personalised strategies and consistent support, many mothers see noticeable improvement in both milk supply and feeding confidence.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and advice based on your unique situation, please consult a specialist at Thomson Medical.Request an appointment with Thomson Medical today.