Breastfeeding Support from Local Lactation Specialists

As many of you know, breastfeeding can be a difficult journey. It’s up to each family to decide what is best for mom and baby, and there are no wrong choices! In honor of August being National Breastfeeding Awareness Month, we're featuring moms who are lactation specialists to talk about the challenges, misconceptions and words of wisdom about breastfeeding. Check our blogs below for all of the interviews.

*Please keep in mind - we understand that not all women are able to choose between formula and breast milk feedings, and we will always support our patients choosing what is best for their babies and lifestyles. We provide this information so that patients who are able to choose can make the most informed decisions.

Ashley Fore, MSN, RNC-MNN, IBCLC.

Ashley is a local mom and lactation consultant, who founded Flow Lactation to help moms reach THEIR breastfeeding goals with both virtual and in-home consults in Charlottesville/Crozet that cover latching, pumping and prenatal prep.

Sarah Bedford

Sarah is a local mom and leader of La Leche League of Charlottesville (LLL of Charlottesville). LLL of Charlottesville is part of La Leche League International, a nonprofit, nonsectarian organization. They offer breastfeeding support, education, and encouragement for parents and expecting parents.

Marion “Lou” Lamb, RN, MS, IBCLC

Lou is a local mom and founder of Breastfeeding Blues & Bliss, a lactation support consultant. Lou shares #HERstory about how motherhood led her to create Breastfeeding Blues & Bliss.

Penny Merrel, IBCLC

Penny is a Lactation Consultant at Martha Jefferson Hospital and have been in this role for 10 years. IBCLC are available to new parents every day from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Their lactation consultants also provide one-on-one outpatient lactation consults to assist you and your baby with successful breastfeeding after you’ve gone home.