The Value of Lactation Support: How It Transforms Your Doula Practice
Kassi Reyes 
How lactation support can set your doula practice apart and help you grow
You’ve seen it happen: the birth goes beautifully, but a few days later you get the text.
“Feeding is a disaster. I don’t think I can do this.”
In that moment, all eyes turn to you. And even though you’re not a lactation consultant, you’re the one they trust.
This is where many doulas freeze.
But it’s also where your support can have the biggest impact.
Because birthwork doesn’t end when the baby arrives, and lactation support doesn’t have to be out of reach.
In fact, it can be the most powerful part of your practice.
Most Lactation Training Leaves Doulas Hanging
If your training gave you a quick overview of latch, some hunger cues, and a reminder to stay in scope—you’re not alone.
Most programs mean well, but they don’t go deep enough to prepare you for the real questions families ask.
- “How do I know baby’s getting enough?”
- “What if it hurts when I latch?”
- “Can I start pumping right away?”
- “How often should I feed?”
- “Why does my baby nurse for five minutes and pass out?”
These are not textbook questions. These are real, messy, emotional moments. And families don’t just need facts, they need support from someone who can walk alongside them with both compassion and confidence.
That’s where you come in.
How Lactation Support Transforms Your Practice
Let’s look at how integrating feeding support can shift your work in big ways:
1. You become the steady voice families need after birth
Even the most confident parents are often blindsided by how tough feeding can be. When you’re able to walk in and say,
“Here’s what’s normal. Here’s what we can try. You’re not doing anything wrong,” it’s like oxygen to a drowning swimmer.
That kind of support builds trust that lasts.
2. You stop second-guessing yourself
No more wondering, “Is this in scope?” or scrambling to Google something under the table.
With the right training, you’ll know what you can do (which is more than you think), when to refer, and how to support feeding without overstepping.
This confidence changes everything.
3. You create real change in your community
The truth is, not every family is going to connect with a lactation consultant.
But they have connected with YOU.
You’re already there, already trusted, already in their corner.
When you’re trained to recognize issues early, offer solid support, and make strong referrals, you become the bridge between families and deeper lactation care.
That ripple effect? It matters.
You Don’t Need to Be an IBCLC to Make a Difference
Lactation support doesn’t have to mean certification. It just means being equipped.
The doulas I train are learning how to prepare families prenatally, support them postpartum, and guide them through common feeding challenges...all while staying in ethical, informed scope.
And they’re doing it with confidence.
You can too.
Ready to learn how?
👉🏽 Sign up for my free training: Confident Lactation for Birthworkers: Stand Out, Get Referrals, Grow.
You’ll walk away with practical tools you can use right away, a clear understanding of what’s in your lane, and a renewed sense of purpose in the postpartum space.
Save your seat here → https://www.birthworkinstitute...