MyLacta

I am sad to announce that I am no longer accepting new clients. I am moving to Missoula, MT in the beginning of August and must fully focus on preparing.

Over 65 families have invited me into one of the most vulnerable times in their lives and have graciously allowed me to support their parenting journeys. The display strength and raw emotion that I have witnessed is incredible. I wish that no parent has to experience the blood, sweat, and tears that often comes with raising babies, but from the pain and frustration blossoms a transformed person, moving from an individual to a Mother or Father. This path has been humbling and I am so very grateful.

Thank you to everyone who has accepted my guidance or helped spread the word about my services. I am also very thankful for the health professionals at Broadway Family Dentistry, Premier Chiropractic and Pearson Chiropractic who frequently offered collaboration to ensure that clients experienced the best care possible! Serene Circle also generously allowed me to speak to expecting mothers and share knowledge (and delicious food!) about breastfeeding and babywearing. Bosom Buddies of Minot - Breastfeeding Support Group was my first introduction to breastfeeding during the last month or two of my first pregnancy! My role has grown from new meeting attendee to a guest speaker over the years, and I am grateful for the support they have offered.

For future breastfeeding assistance, it is important to know that the standard training for nurses and doctors does NOT include an adequate amount (only a couple hours, if that much) for breastfeeding management in normal or atypical situations. Going to someone trained in breastfeeding is critical to best resolve challenges. Unfortunately, Minot has limited professional breastfeeding support. The nearest breastfeeding resources are as follows:

Williston: Upper Missouri District Health Unit, Liz Bustad- International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (90 hours of training, at least 400-2000 clinical hours in breastfeeding management, board certifying exam and required continuing education). 701-774-6412

Williston: CHI St. Alexius Health, Barb Overland- International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (90 hours of training, at least 400-2000 clinical hours in breastfeeding management, board certifying exam and required continuing education). 701-774-7400 (ask for OB unit)

Bismarck: Dr. Stephanie Nishek- Certified Lactation Educator and Counselor (45 hours of training) and Naturopathic Doctor- (701) 258-9418

Minot: Nurses at Trinity- Certified Lactation Counselors (45 hours of training). (701) 857-3748
*Some parents have reported negative experiences ranging from blatant misinformation to poor bedside manner. I am not targeting any specific nurses, and I'm sure their intentions are good, but it is important, as consumers and as parents, to require excellent, evidence-based healthcare. Find a second opinion if the guidance you received doesn't match your intuition and never be afraid to change nurses or physicians if you feel that you are not being listened to or are being disrespected.*

Minot AFB: New Parent Support Program, Linda Miller- Certified Lactation Counselor (45 hours of training). (701) 723-5096