Whether you’re a first-time parent or a seasoned pro, navigating the world of breastfeeding can be both rewarding and challenging.
That’s where lactation consultants come in!
These experts can be a total game changer when it comes to guiding and supporting you through your breastfeeding journey.
Today, we’re chatting with Jacquelyn Aldrich, RN, BSN, IBCLC, a Lactation Consultant at Mysticalcaves Milkiways in Westerly, RI. She’s sharing how she created the kind of supportive, connected motherhood experience she once needed herself.
Tell us a little about yourself: what inspired you to become a lactation consultant, and what’s your favorite part about helping families?
I had so many times in motherhood where I felt I was drowning (If you’ve felt that too, you’re not alone). Guilt for not being a perfect mother and wife. Overwhelm at breastfeeding. Sometimes isolation and depression. I needed to be in community with other mothers. Motherhood was meant to be shared, so I created a safe space to explore the connections from pregnancy to birth and breastfeeding that I did not get.
One of my favorite parts is praying for the families I serve and watching them grow in confidence.
What’s the most common “huh?” moment moms have when they start breastfeeding, and how do you help them through it?
Sometimes they do not realize all that goes into breastfeeding. The level of commitment. But it’s so much more than that. It’s a sacred connection. I hope to connect them to that. Then they can feed with more ease when I teach them how to touch their babies, hold them, maximize connection to their body & baby.
If a new mom isn’t sure when to reach out for help, what signs tell her, “Yep, time to call Jackie”?
Oh so many reasons! Sometimes it’s physical, like sore nipples or baby not gaining weight. Other times it’s just needing a friend for reassurance.Whether it’s clicking at breast or bottle, stiff baby, reflux, breast preference,weaning, starting solids, shallow latch, compressed nipples, flange fittings, pumping guidance, supply issues, and more…you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Every breastfeeding journey is different. How do you help moms find their flow, whether it’s latch issues, low supply, pumping, or a baby who just marches to their own beat?
We explore many things together. Sometimes we even meet before baby arrives for a prenatal visit where I help moms prepare with classes, hand expression and simple ways to improve breastfeeding outcomes.
By taking a full history, we often uncover small things that can make a big difference. I continue to support families through the early months. Often they like having ongoing reassurance. That’s a big part of why I host weekly Milk Circles where moms can come for free baby weigh-ins, support, and connection with other mothers. It’s a beautiful thing.
When mothers have information and community, they become more confident to make the choices that suit them best. Find their flow. I’m just a tool. Maybe like training wheels.
Do you have any favorite little tricks, rituals, or tips that make life easier for new parents at home?
I love teaching parents about craniosacral fascial therapy. CFT is a gentle, light-touch technique that helps babies relax and feed more comfortably. Watching parents make more connections and have these moments of clarity helps them connect the dots. Just working on touch and bringing about newborn instincts helps mamas create theirs. We often work on latch positions and basics to start.
I can’t give away all my secrets here but when I work with you, you’ll learn them all!
For parents who feel like “I’m just not a breastfeeding person,” what’s your go-to encouragement?
I think everyone is, we just don’t always hear about the correct tools or advice. We connect to our babies through breastfeeding in such divine ways.
Even knowing all this I understand life is hard…there is the possibility it is not for some. We speak about goals. Have they changed…because life changes. Our minds may need to change too. Mental health is always something I try to stay present about.
With the right support I feel mothers can do anything, it just may look different from someone else and that’s ok.
Where can families find you if they want a little more guidance, support, or just a safe place to ask questions?
I have an IG account @MysticalcavesMilkiways and my personal cell is on my website ( I think the whole town has it 😉) My office is located inside Oceanside Chiropractic with the wonderful Dr Heather Hunscher. We make a great team.
Many mothers just drop in or shoot an email or a text and we start to build a relationship. That’s how all good things begin.
When you meet Jackie, you’ll quickly feel how passionate she is about her work and the families she supports. As photographers, we have had the chance to work with some her families and witness the confidence and connection that grows with the right guidance.
Motherhood is not meant to be done alone, and Jackie has created a space where moms can feel seen, supported, and confident in their journey.
Click here to learn more about services offered
Click here to learn more about Newborn & Family Photography in RI.