Frequently Asked Questions

What is tailor-made support?

I am passionate about working with families who’s experiences may not be typical. I have experience providing support in many varying circumstances including to parents who are neurodivergent, who are expecting multiples, who have trauma histories, who have medical complications and who have struggled with breastfeeding or birth in the past. We can work together to come up with a package of support to suit your needs. This package can be developed via email communication or with a discovery call. The call/email is to identify what service, or packages of services, may best meet your needs and does not include strategies or clinical advice as, for insurance reasons, this can only be provided once engaged formally as a client. There is no obligation to purchase services at the end of the call/email communication.

Niamh Cassidy, a professional who understands your needs!

What are your specific circumstances?

First time parent? Trauma history? Neurodivergent? Pregnant with multiples? Difficult previous breastfeeding journey? Previous breast surgery?

What are your goals?

What do you hope to get from the support? Let us know what you are hoping for and what you need.

Develop a plan.

Development of a service/class or suite of services and support to meet your needs and budget.

General Questions

Hi there! Have some questions about us? Find the answers below. 

  • What is an IBCLC?

    An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant® (IBCLC®) is a healthcare professional who specialises in the clinical management of breastfeeding. IBCLCs have a unique body of knowledge and skill to provide breastfeeding and lactation care in routine and complicated situations. Think of your IBCLC in terms of a specialised consultant in lactation. 

  • What is an independent antenatal educator?

    An independent Antenatal Educator is one who works for themselves outside the hospital system. This means we are free to promote evidence-based care that may be somewhat different to hospital policy as we are not constrained by the HSE as an employer. I have completed a Dip. in Antental Education which is the most comprehensive independent antenatal training programme in the country and one of few registered with FEDANT (Federation of Antenatal Educators). 

  • Should partners attend classes and/or consultations?

    Absolutely yes! If at all possible your main support person for birth or breastfeeding should attend. If you have more than one support person (e.g. your mother or doula) they are also welcome to attend should you wish. 

  • What issues can an IBCLC help with?

    Any breastfeeding issue can be supported by an IBCLC. A list of common Breastfeeding Problems and how I can help can be found here.

  • Whats happens during a home visit lactation consultation?

    During a home visit we will talk through your pregnancy, birth and relevant medical history. We will discuss the challenges you are having and what your goals are. A feeding assessment will be completed and if necssary and oral assessment and weighing will be done also. You will be given suggestions on how to overcome your challenges and afterwards you will be sent a detailed plan. For more details see below.


What Happens During a Home Visit

1. Complete Intake Form

Let us know where you are struggling and what you hope to achieve. This helps us plan for our visit.

2. Tell us your detailed

History

At the start of the home visit Niamh will take a detailed verbal history of puberty, fertility, pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period to date.

3. Physical & observational assessments completed

These may include assessment of latching, pumping, baby's oral cavity, breast shape and nipple anatomy. 

4. Advice, information and practical support given

This may include trying different positions, fitting nipple shields or checking flange sizes for example. 

5. Lactation Support Plan with Resources

After the visit you will receive a typed Lactation Support Plan with resources including links, videos and handouts depending on your specific challenges. 

6. Follow support through dedicated client portal on the contents of the plan available

Our dedicated client portal allows you to easily communicate with your lactation consultant with any follow up questions.

7. Follow up appointments available on request