Portland Lactation Support
Birthing Stone is so excited to partner with Lotus Lactation in offering private, in-home, and virtual lactation support. Throughout the years we’ve watched Megan grow from a lactation student to a Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) offering her lactation services to the Portland area. She’s led classes and parent groups in the past and is excited to bring them to the Tualitan area in 2024.
In 2016 we interviewed Megan so parents could learn more about her- and so much has changed. So, we thought it was time to interview her again.
My name is: Megan Maltby
My profession is: I am a Board Certified Lactation Consultant!
How did you get started as a Lactation Consultant?
The birth of my daughter in 2012 sparked my interest in the birth community. I found myself struggling with breastfeeding and finding the support I needed. Like many parents, I worked through many challenges alone and really didn’t know what kind of support was out there.
After learning the definition of Lactation Consultant, I spiraled into constant research on how I could get that title for myself and help those like me.
In 2013 I applied for the IBLCE pathway 2 program at a private college in Portland where I then spent the next 1.5 years of classes and practicum. I graduated with an education in Human Lactation and I was eligible to sit for the IBCLC board exam in 2016. At this time the exam was only offered in the spring and fall so after completing my education and clinical training, I spent the next 9 months studying and working as a CLC or Certified Lactation Counselor before sitting for the exam. I passed!
What I want people to know about the service I offer:
I currently own Lotus Lactation where I offer in-home prenatal and post-natal consultations as well as telehealth visits.
I teach classes and am working on offering a new parent group again!
I’m also excited to announce the opening of my Tualitan office, which will allow me to offer in-office appointments beginning mid to late January, 2024.
Collaboration and ongoing learning are important to me. I work closely with many health providers in the Portland-Metro area as well as Vancouver Washington, and am always working toward expanding my knowledge and understanding of breastfeeding, labor, and birth.
Soon, I will also be enrolling in school again with the ultimate goal of a BSN. Along with my private practice, I work for Legacy Health 1-2 days a week where I see families in-patient and for outpatient appointments.
Many families see a lactation consultant in the hospital after the baby comes- in a few words, can you tell us the benefit of in-home lactation visits?
In-home lactation consults typically last significantly longer than what is standard at any given hospital. I spend around 1.5 hours per appointment at home. It allows me more time to answer breastfeeding questions and concerns and allows me to thoroughly assist with latch and positioning which eliminates discomfort and confusion. I provide close follow-up to ensure clients are continuing in their desired breastfeeding direction and can thoroughly and thoughtfully assess a feed.
A huge draw for parents is the elimination of prepping a newborn and a newly postpartum mama for another trip out of the house, especially with how many appointments follow the birth of a baby already. Parents in the comfort of their own home have access to their kitchen and bathroom during appointments and don’t need to do anything out of their normal routine.
One thing I have noticed in the time I have been providing lactation care is that infants typically tend to perform how they would normally at home as opposed to an office visit where they can get overstimulated.
Having gone through years of schooling and hands-on experience training, what’s one thing that has surprised you or that you’ve come to have a new perspective on?
I think I will forever continue to be amazed at the body of women and birthing persons. It births life and sustains life inside and outside of it for years. It is resilient, reliable, and tough. I have always valued the human body but being enthralled into the birthing community for the last few years has given me even more admiration in its processes and unrelenting beauty. Not only that but the mind of a birthing person who becomes a parent changes instantly and grows beyond measure. It is truly fascinating and magnificent to watch the transitions.
I support new families by: I support new families by offering unbiased, evidence based support. I am
here to help reach goals and provide information regarding the new breastfeeding research that
comes out each day.
What are a few myths about breastfeeding and lactation?
Myth #1A baby who nurses around the clock isn’t getting enough breastmilk.
FALSE! It is not uncommon for a newborn (or even an older baby) to want to nurse often. Along with sustenance, being at the breast offers them warmth, heart rate regulation, state regulation, and bonding.
Myth #2: Lactation Consultants are only ‘pro-boob’ and won’t be supportive of my feeding choices
away from the breast.
FALSE! I support families throughout their entire feeding career, no matter what that looks like. I am here to offer unbiased support, evidence-based knowledge, and thoughtful alternative care.
1-2 things I’ve learned from being a parent:
- Have a sense of humor, no matter the situation. Being a parent is messy, tiring and wonderful; sometimes all at the same time.
- My babies will not be babies forever! I remember taking the time to cuddle my daughter when she fell asleep on me, take pictures to remember the days, and cherishing the smiles and laughs wholeheartedly.
- My favorite place to go, or thing to do on vacation: My family and I enjoy camping throughout the PNW! Most weekends you can find us kayaking, fishing, swimming, or hiking.
An important thing I want you to know about me is:
I am constantly striving to better myself as a person and within my career. I enjoy research, case
studies, and peer-reviewed articles to keep up to date. I enjoy meeting new dyads and creating
relationships with care providers in the area to gain a better understanding of their
practices and how they may support the breastfeeding relationship.
Random fun fact: I enjoy kickboxing in my spare time.
Links to research that supports moms and babies: