When you come home from the hospital, make sure you arrange a visit from a midwife or a lactation consultant. Even if you think everyting is going well! The first days are crucial if you want to breastfeed successfully. It's invaluable to have an expert over at your place, to see how everything goes and advise you if necessary.
On the website of Vlaamse Organisatie van Vroedvrouwen (VLOV) (Flemish Midwives Organization) you can search and find a midife specialised in breastfeeding in your neighbourhood.
You'll find a similar tool on Belgische vereniging van Lactatiekundigen (BVL) (BVL) (Belgian Association for Lactation Consultants).
Some national health services even encourage new moms financially to breastfeed. Have a look at this brochure of Liberale Mutualiteiten. Make sure you're guided by the best experts!
SOS Boob - in house lactation consultants !
All of you who have questions regarding nursing, are welcome in our stores each Friday from 11 am to 1 pm to visit our lactation experts. In Antwerp, Laurence De Backer will be happy to help you, in Dilbeek, you will be assisted alternatively by Dorien Daems and Hildegarde Op De Beeck. All 3 are certified IBCLC lactation consultants. No need to make an appointment, just walk in! Of course, in case of urgent issues, like e.g. a breast infection, please don’t wait until Friday to look for professional help. You can always call us if you need help finding lactation consultants in your area.
Home support doesn't have to be expensive
Midwife or lactation consultant visits are reimbursed by your national health service (up to 12 times per child), you only have to pay for mileage (sometimes). You'll find an example of rates and reimbursement at CM and of complete refund at Liberale Mutualiteiten. Contact with your own national health service to obtain more details.
