What do I need for my appointment?

Please have ready everything that you typically need for a feed: nursing pillow, pump supplements/ top ups etc. Please arrive for your appointment a few minutes early. We recognize it is difficult to time your babies feed with your appointment (especially with younger babies) but ask you to try your best to bring baby neither very full nor very hungry. If we are running behind, which happens sometimes as babies are unpredictable, feed just enough to keep everyone comfortable.

Please have a record of your baby’s most recent weights, and the date of the weight.

We encourage you to include a support person in the appointment. Infant feeding involves the whole family and we welcome the opportunity to answer everyone’s questions. For virtual appointments, it is helpful to have someone else present to hold the camera for you during a feed.

I don’t want to breastfeed, but need help with pumping or bottle feeding, can you help?

We are here to help you meet YOUR feeding goals. This could mean exclusive pumping, bottle feeding, formula feeding etc. We specialize in all forms of infant and young child feeding, not just latching. We will ask you about your goals at every visit because we recognize that goals can evolve over time.

Why does this website use the term breastfeeding/chestfeeding?

Inclusive care is important to us. Not all individuals who birth and feed their baby from their body identify as having breasts. Chestfeeding / bodyfeeding is a more accurate terminology for transgender and nonbinary parents to describe how they feed and nurture their babies. Language around birthing and infant feeding is evolving to become more inclusive and we are continually working to update the language that we use. You may also be asked about your pronouns and parenting language before or during your appointment.

What region do you serve?

We accept referrals from across British Columbia. Appointments can be In-Person at our Penticton office, or virtual from the comfort of your own home. We recognize that not every community has breastfeeding/chestfeeding medicine specialists. We are happy to collaborate with your care team in creating a management plan.

How do I choose between virtual and in-person appointments?

The best appointment type for you depends on many factors: where you live, what you need help with, and your physical recovery. We encourage in-person consultations whenever possible, however virtual visits are also available and have become a popular way of accessing care. Please call the clinic for more information regarding your particular circumstances.

I do not have MSP, can I still see you?

We strive to support all families to meet their infant feeding goals. We may be able to offer private pay options or refer you to other care providers. Please call the clinic for more information regarding your particular circumstances.

My baby is over 6 weeks, can I still see you?

We strive to support all families to meet their infant feeding goals. We may be able to offer private pay options or refer you to other care providers. Please call the clinic for more information regarding your particular circumstances.

Do I see you instead of my Midwife/Doctor?

Appointments at The Milk Clinic provide infant feeding support and are not a replacement for routine pregnancy and postpartum care.