Flourish Lactation

04/20/2026

Between cluster feeding and leaky breasts, the fourth trimester is wild enough without uncomfortable gear. I’m a lactation consultant, and these are the top postpartum accessories I actually recommend to my clients.

🔹nursing cover: I love a stretchy, comfortable, breathable nursing cover. It's multipurpose-use it as the name implies, or use it to cover up when pumping or as a cover for your car seat when out for a walk or to keep unwanted attention on babe in the grocery store. The stretchy covers are perfect for nursing because they'll keep you covered, even if baby starts their kickboxing routine or a wind picks up when you're feeding outdoors (no fashion emergencies here!)
🔹passive milk collectors: nursing pads have their place (see below), but if you find that you are leaking milk more often than not, these collectors will allow you to save that milk rather than losing it to your pads. And the best part is, they are completely passive (when used correctly)-they sit in your bra and collect what is already leaking. No additional stimulation that may cause oversupply, just protection from leaking and a milk saver. It's a win-win.
🔹combo nursing/pumping bra: if you have a combination nursing and pumping bra that is supportive and allows you easy access for feeding and pumping, you are ready for anything.
🔹reusable nursing pads: ditch the scratchy disposables for these comfy and soft nursing pads. Save your outfits from leaks and keep your breasts and ni***es comfortable. I find 100% cotton options to be the most comfortable!
🔹ni**le cream: ni**le creams are not always one size fits all. You may find that you need to try a couple of different brands before you find something you love. Pay attention to ingredient lists-some ingredients may feel better on your skin than others.
🔹 breastfeeding pillow: there are so many different options on the market for nursing pillows. For the early days of cluster feeding with a newborn, I love something that provides good support all around your body. You're already doing a lot of work-you want to have a pillow that's easy and supportive, not another thing you have to worry about.

You may be asking yourself, do I really NEED all of this? Absolutely not! But, if you have a registry to create or something you have isn't working quite right, some of these suggestions may be a good second option for you!

I would love to support you from your prenatal consultations to weaning. If you have any questions or would like to book a consult with me, click the link in bio! 💖

04/08/2026

I'm very excited to announce a new collaboration with Pelvic Pro Physical Therapy. We will cover basic breastfeeding education as well as good body mechanics to support YOU in your breastfeeding journey!

If you would like more information, please DM me!

02/03/2026

There are some new faces here, so it might be time for an updated introduction!

My name is Katarina, I am a registered nurse and IBCLC and I am the owner of Flourish Lactation. I offer lactation consultations in your home as well as private pre-natal breastfeeding education, baby care education, and CPR for parents and families. My practice accepts several kinds of insurance, which makes it easy to get lactation care covered!

If you're expecting this spring or summer, now is a great time to prepare for baby with pre-natal education! More details available on my website! ❤️

01/24/2026

There is a lot of great information for those with young children and infants in this post, beyond just breastfeeding information. Happy to answer any questions by post, DM, or by contacting me through the channels listed on my website! www.flourishlactation.com

https://mailchi.mp/breastfeedingcenter/october1-5125401?e=673defcef3&fbclid=IwVERDUAPhy8xleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAwzNTA2ODU1MzE3MjgAAR6xpSrqatFRsyFcMFeK8hvwpvUFU5SreSKOYAl7Ll2g3qne9oghwRbCi3Kjwg_aem_YcOg4-Vm9-OgA1k99ElizA

The Breastfeeding Center will close an hour early tomorrow so that our staff can stay off the roads, and prepare themselves for the weather:

01/04/2026

Come out and say hi at these free mama chats with FIT4MOM-Alexandria in January!

11/22/2025

Need a holiday outing hack for parents? This is it! 👇

The holidays are here, and if you're planning more trips out with your little one, we have a vital tip! 🎄 Did you know many major spots now offer dedicated, well-equipped Lactation Spaces?

We recently visited the National Children's Museum in Washington, D.C. and were so impressed by theirs!
It had everything we needed for a smooth visit:

* 👶 Comfort: Private, comfortable seating.
* 🔌 Pumping Made Easy: Electrical outlets for breast pumps.
* 🧼 Clean Up: A sink and changing area right inside.
* 📍 Location: Quick access near the main museum action!

It truly made our visit stress-free. Finding a clean, accessible spot shouldn't be a challenge!

What's the best parent-friendly space you've ever used while traveling or out?
Tell us your favorite spots in the comments! 👇

09/12/2025

Feel more prepared and confident for your new arrival! Flourish Lactation and the New Parent Network are excited to partner on a comprehensive "New Baby Care" class.

This class covers all the basics you'll need for the first days and weeks at home:

Diapering & swaddling

Bathing & feeding

What to expect in the early days

Taught by two experienced registered nurses (who are also moms!), you'll have the chance to ask all your questions and leave feeling ready for this new chapter.

Enrolling now for October classes in Old Town Alexandria. Secure your spot and get all the details at the link below!

08/30/2025

Looking for a little extra support during your breastfeeding journey? 🤱 A breastfeeding pillow can be a game changer!

These pillows help you find the most comfortable position for both you and your baby, reducing strain on your back, neck, and arms. They bring your baby up to the perfect height, which can also help with a better latch. This is one of the first things I check for in consultations--good positioning! And a good pillow can make a world of difference!!

Whether you're a new parent or a seasoned pro, a good nursing pillow can make feeding time more relaxed and enjoyable.

08/21/2025

Did you know your insurance might cover lactation support? 🤔 It’s a game-changer!

Many new parents receive great lactation support in the hospital, but what happens when you get home and new questions pop up? That's when you need to know your options.

Here's the good news: Many insurance plans cover up to 6 visits with a lactation consultant, whether it's in their office or even in your home.

Companies like Wildflower Health and The Lactation Network are making it even easier to connect with a local IBCLC.

I'm in-network with both of these amazing companies in the DMV area!

Ready to find out what's covered for you? Check your eligibility instantly at the link in my bio. ☝️

08/18/2025

To conclude our recent series on breastfeeding while out and about, we're going to discuss the Mamava app. Stop the endless search for a private, clean place to pump or breastfeed when you're out and about. Mamava has you covered! ✨

The free Mamava app is a lifesaver for nursing and pumping parents on the go. It helps you:

📍 Find thousands of vetted lactation spaces, including Mamava pods and other rooms—never a bathroom!

🔓 Unlock Mamava pods with a single tap.

⭐ See details and reviews of each space, like outlets and a changing table.

💖 Get a little uplift with "Words of Support" from other parents.

And did I mention it's completely free!?!?

Download the app today and find your next peaceful pumping or nursing spot!

08/03/2025

🎉💖✨Happy World Breastfeeding Week!!! ✨💖🎉

This year's theme is all about sustainability in breastfeeding. Whether that's increasing support for lactating parents or highlighting the sustainability factor of breastfeeding.

Many parents struggle with breastfeeding long-term due to societal pressures. With changes to maternity leave, dedicated pumping spaces, flexible work hours, better access to lactation support and increased awareness of the effects of long-term breastfeeding, change can be affected. But the first step is advocacy and awareness.