A lactation consultant is often the difference between happy breastfeeding and frustrated cessation. The first days of breastfeeding are complicated, painful, and confusing — and many mothers stop simply because they had no one to ask. A professional lactation consultant comes to your home (or via Zoom) and solves the problem in one or two sessions: incorrect latch, sore nipples, low milk supply, sudden refusal by the baby, or a combination of pumping and returning to work.
The consultants on this page are divided into two main groups: internationally certified lactation consultants (IBCLCs) — the gold standard in the field, with hundreds of hours of training and an international exam; and Israeli lactation consultants (mostly graduates of LeLaM courses) — also very professional, sometimes more available and at more accessible prices. Both groups help, and the difference is mainly in the theoretical depth and the complexity of cases they handle.
Lactation consulting often integrates with other areas — such as postpartum mother guidance which helps the mother understand all the first days and not just breastfeeding, or with baby and child sleep consultants who accompany the weaning from night feeds. Many mothers also start with baby and child nutrition consulting when it's time for solids.
At Vanilla Market , each consultant presents their qualification (IBCLC or other), service areas, whether they offer home visits or only clinic/Zoom, and prices. Send a message via WhatsApp — most consultants respond within 24-48 hours, and this is the difference between success and failure.
Tips for choosing a professional
Don't wait until you're injured — find a consultant within the first 72 hours even if everything seems "fine."
Prioritize a consultant who comes home in the first two weeks — leaving the house with a newborn is an expedition.
Record a video of the feeding before you call — it saves a tremendous amount of time during the session.
Don't buy a pump before a consultant recommends it — the wrong type can harm milk supply.
Ask the consultant for a written plan at the end of the session — at 3 AM you won't remember what she said.
Keep the consultant's phone number on speed dial — short WhatsApp questions help between sessions.
If the consultant doesn't accommodate you for a session — go to another. The first days are too precious for compromises.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a home visit from a lactation consultant cost?
Between 350-700 NIS per session, depending on experience (IBCLC costs more), area, and session duration (1.5-2.5 hours). A Zoom session is 20-30 percent cheaper.
What is the difference between an IBCLC and an Israeli lactation consultant?
IBCLC is an international certification with hundreds of hours of study and an international exam. An Israeli consultant is a graduate of a local course (LeLaM, Medical Corps, etc.) — very professional but with local certification. For complex cases, prefer an IBCLC.
Does online consulting really work?
For simple cases (latch, positions, low supply) — yes, absolutely. For complex cases (severely sore nipples, suspected tongue tie in the baby, multiple issues) — a home visit is preferable.
Will a lactation consultant encourage me not to stop breastfeeding?
A professional consultant will respect your choice, whatever it may be. Their role is to help you — to breastfeed, to switch to bottles, to combine the two, or to wean with dignity. If you feel pressured — you are with the wrong consultant.
What is Triple Feeding and when is it used?
This is a short-term protocol of breastfeeding + supplementation (bottle or SNS) + pumping — for babies not gaining weight. A consultant will build a 7-10 day plan with you to return to regular breastfeeding. Do not implement it alone.
How do I choose the right consultant?
As needed: for an urgent case — whoever is available fastest; for a complex case — an experienced IBCLC; for a second mother — someone who knows your area. Send a message via Vanilla Market to 3 consultants simultaneously, see who responds first.