Basics of Lactation Management for Doulas

As a trusted, continuous presence in the birth space and beyond, doulas are uniquely positioned to support families through one of the most meaningful and transformative experiences of early parenthood: feeding their baby.

This course, presented by TaKiesha Smith, certified birth worker, Certified Breastfeeding Specialist, Certified Lactation Counselor, and Certified Community Health Worker, gives you the knowledge, language, and practical tools to step fully into that role.

Covered in this course:

• The doula's unique, non-clinical role in lactation support, including how to provide emotional encouragement, early latch and positioning guidance, and non-judgmental care without overstepping scope of practice
• Infant feeding fundamentals, including hunger cues, feeding positions, latch assessment, hand expression, and how to recognize whether a baby is getting enough to eat in the first days of life
• The journey of milk production, including what clients experience at each stage and how doulas can normalize and support the process
• How birth type (vaginal, induced, or cesarean) affects feeding initiation, and what doulas can do to help
• Common lactation challenges such as sore nipples, engorgement, and perceived low supply, with clear referral pathways to IBCLCs and physicians
• Sensitive topics including feeding after loss, lactation suppression, and milk donation
• Practical tools for the doula toolkit: resource lists, handouts, pacifier guidance, and an overview of pumping options

Whether your clients are hoping to continue nursing through a new pregnancy or simply want to know what to expect, this course gives you the knowledge to meet them with up-to-date information, validation, and practical tools.

Whether your clients plan to exclusively breastfeed, combination feed, pump, or are simply undecided, this course equips you with the knowledge, language, and resources to meet every family where they are, with compassion, cultural humility, and evidence-based support.

This course awards a certificate of completion.

Price 17.00