Joy Ferrell RN, BSN

 

Meet Joy, our In-House Lactation Consultant

Joy has 28 years of experience in all areas of maternity services, and was International Board Certified Lactation Consultant for 15 years at Stonecrest Medical Center.

Lactation consulting can be incredibly beneficial for mothers who have had breast surgery in the past, piercings, or are facing challenges and concerns about breastfeeding. Here's why lactation consulting can be helpful in these situations:

  1. Breast surgery or piercings: If you've had breast surgery, such as breast augmentation or reduction, or if you have piercings in your nipples, it can impact breastfeeding. Joy is trained to assess your individual situation and help you understand how your past surgery or piercings might affect breastfeeding. She can offer techniques and advice to improve latch and milk transfer, as well as provide support and encouragement.

  2. Concerns about how to start: Starting breastfeeding can be daunting, especially for first-time mothers. We are here to guide you through the process, offering step-by-step instructions on how to properly latch your baby and establish a good breastfeeding routine. She can address any concerns or anxieties you might have, helping you gain confidence and ensure a positive start to breastfeeding.

  3. Low milk supply or other breastfeeding challenges: Some mothers may experience difficulties with milk production, latching issues, or sore nipples, making breastfeeding challenging. Joy can identify the root causes of these challenges and provide personalized strategies to overcome them. She can offer tips to increase milk supply, improve latch, and manage common breastfeeding issues, like engorgement or mastitis.

  4. Exclusive pumping or supplementing: If you're considering exclusive pumping or supplementing with formula, lactation consultants can offer guidance on how to do so effectively while maintaining your milk supply and ensuring your baby's nutritional needs are met.

  5. Individualized support and education: Every mother and baby are unique, and lactation consultants understand this. She provides personalized support and education tailored to your specific needs and circumstances. Whether it's addressing specific concerns, providing hands-on assistance, or offering information on breastfeeding positions and techniques, we are here to help you succeed in your breastfeeding journey.

  6. Emotional and mental support: Breastfeeding challenges can be emotionally and mentally taxing for some mothers. Lactation consultants like Joy offer empathy, encouragement, and emotional support, helping you navigate the ups and downs of breastfeeding with confidence and peace of mind.

 

Abbie HUdson, rdn