ABOUT ANDREA BLANCO
Andrea and her boys
AS A NEW MOM...
...of an adorable baby boy who wanted nothing more than to be in my arms, I remember how overwhelming those first few weeks were. Often times, the only thing that would calm him was breastfeeding, but I couldn't shake the feeling we were doing something wrong. It seemed like everyone was eager to help, but all of their tips and tricks conflicted, making me more confused. Back then, I didn't know international board certified lactation consultants existed, but, looking back, I realize how much easier those weeks would have been with the right kind of information and support. A couple years later and with another baby boy in tow, what started out as an irreplaceable bond between my babies and I, quickly turned into a mission to help other families sort through the huge transition that comes with having a baby and breastfeeding.
My career began...
In 2008, I began working with families as a breastfeeding educator with the Department of Health, Miami-Dade County. Working hard to improve breastfeeding rates in our local community, I later worked under a government grant with South Florida hospitals implementing plans and policies to improve breastfeeding initiation rates and really got an understanding of some of the barriers new parents face from the start. At the same time, I began transitioning from the public health sector to private practice, where I've been invited to hundreds of homes in our community, and have been lucky enough to help many South Florida families achieve their breastfeeding goals. After over 1000 breastfeeding specific hours working with mothers and babies and many hours of continuing education, I certified in 2010 as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. Our field is ever changing with new information and best practices being updated constantly. I've continued my education and training through the years and know breastfeeding should never be a “one size fits all” approach. The breastfeeding difficulties I am skilled to help in range from general breastfeeding concerns to complex issues, but listening to each family’s needs and goals, along with assessing the issues, and incorporating those into the expert level of care I provide is paramount. I am committed to providing each family with the professional, evidence based, individualized education, guidance and support they deserve along their breastfeeding journey.
““It was a long road to motherhood, but when I finally got to hold my little one in my arms, I knew I was determined to breastfeed him. Unfortunately, a tongue tie was making it difficult. Andrea walked me through the process and helped me get my supply up. She was my eternal cheerleader! My goal was to breastfeed for 6 months. Two years later, we are still nursing. Andrea kept me sane during those first tough months and has been by my side since. I couldn’t have done this without her help.” ~ Liz and Baby Anthony”
