Everything you need to know before your Prenatal appointment

We are so glad you’ve chosen to schedule a prenatal appointment! Meeting with your lactation consultant before your baby comes is invaluable preparation that we find really assists in enabling you to meet your breastfeeding goals! Here’s what you need to know to so that you and your consultant can make the most out of your appointment time together:

  • Please make sure you’ve completed your Intake Form if this is your first appointment with THIS baby.

  • All prenatal appointments are by telehealth right now, so no need to change out of your pajamas, stay comfy! 

  • It’s helpful to have a partner or helper available who can hold the device with the camera and move it around as needed. Consultants may want to observe things up close or from different angles.

  • If you have specific questions or concerns, it can be helpful to have them written down so that you’re able to ask everything during your appointment time.

  • Your consultant will email you the Virtual Meeting invite shortly before your appointment, if you’re joining on a computer just click the link. If you’re joining from an iphone or ipad you will want to download this app (iphone/ipad) ahead of time.

  • Environment: You may also want to think about a space where you have relative quiet, and perhaps something to prop your device with. Also consider grabbing your snacks, drinks, and using the bathroom before your appointment begins! Please TEXT us at 202-293-5182 if you have any issues with logging in for your consult. 

  • For your records please read and print or save a copy of these forms for your records:

Insurance coverage - what to expect

We are currently in-network with almost all plans under Aetna, BCBS, and United. If your primary insurance coverage is through any of those companies, you can expect that The Breastfeeding Center will submit the insurance claim to your insurance company for you. You will only hear from us about payment if a patient responsibility is determined by your insurer.

If your primary insurance coverage is through any other insurance company, you will be charged for the consultation within 30 days using the credit card you put on file when creating your appointment. You will also be emailed a superbill which you can fill out and submit to your insurance company to attempt reimbursement.

Click here for more in-depth information on insurance coverage and here for information on our financial assistance program.

what happens after your appointment

Shortly after your appointment, you will be notified via email that your visit notes have been added to your patient portal. You can log on at any time to review notes and past appointments, and to schedule additional appointments.

We recommend scheduling your first postnatal appointment within one week of giving birth (and the sooner the better if you’re experiencing pain and/or if baby is losing more weight than anticipated). Meeting with a lactation consultant early (and potentially often) will be the best way to ensure a successful breastfeeding relationship - whatever that means to you and your family! Also know that our lactation consultants are well-versed in any and all concerns related to nursing - from latch and nipple pain to clogged ducts to pumping to elimination diets to weaning, and everything in between. We’re here to help you throughout your nursing/pumping journey!

We also recommend taking advantage of the other services we offer here at The Center, including:

  • Group classes: We offer classes ranging from childbirth prep through toddlerhood, and many are covered by insurance. You can see our full listing and register for classes here.

  • Support groups: Our support groups - whether for nursing or for mental health - are great for meeting other parents who are sharing some of the same experiences as you and your family, as well as to get support from the professionals leading the groups. All our support groups are free.

  • Hospital-grade pump & scale rentals: We always have hospital-grade pumps and scales available to rent. You can find more information here.

  • Breastfeeding/pumping boutique: Our shop is stocked with nursing/pumping essentials, as well as fun baby shower gifts. You can order online and choose shipping or same-day pick up!

  • Breastmilk depot: We accept donations of breastmilk through the Milk Bank at Austin. We also dispense donor milk through the same Milk Bank. You can learn about becoming a donor or a recipient here.

  • Workplace support: Our staff can work directly with your HR department to ensure your employer is in compliance with all state and federal laws around nursing/pumping, as well as helping set up a lactation program at your workplace. Click here for more information.

If you have any questions at all, please do not hesitate to reach out!