16/01/2026
Things that make being an IBCLC hard (and still so worth it):
• Having to convince families that lactation support is worth the cost.
I’ve spent years in training, education, mentorship, and practice. I know paying out of pocket can hurt — and I also know I’m really good at what I do. It’s hard when support is needed most and systems don’t make it accessible.
• Not being able to fix everything in one visit.
Sometimes it takes 3–6 visits. I’m skilled, but I’m not a miracle worker. Bodies, babies, and feeding journeys are complex — and progress isn’t always linear.
• Being the bearer of hard news.
Telling a parent their baby transferred very little milk at the breast never gets easier. My heart breaks every time. But it’s also the baseline — and from there, things can only improve. Truth allows us to move forward.
• Graduating families.
Saying, “I’m so proud of you — you’ve got this now,” is beautiful and bittersweet. Letting go is part of the work, even when relationships are built in such tender moments.
• Holding space for emotions no one prepared you for.
Fear. Guilt. Grief. Relief. Hope. I often sit with families in some of their most vulnerable moments — and I carry that with deep care.
• Advocating in systems that don’t always listen.
Fighting for referrals, coverage, and recognition while still showing up fully for families can be exhausting.
And still — I wouldn’t trade this work.
Because being trusted with someone’s feeding journey is an honor.
Because small wins matter.
Because families deserve skilled, compassionate support.
This work is heavy — and it’s sacred.
