Breast and bottle feeding support from an independent expert in London, UK

Hi, I am Cathy Sage, an experienced baby feeding specialist (IBCLC) based in Putney, London.  I have helped thousands of parents overcome their breast and bottle feeding challenges through video consultations and home visits.  I am friendly and empathetic, offering non-judgmental and practical support.  I have over 18 years experience of working in my busy private practice, for the NCT and as a volunteer on the postnatal wards of two London teaching hospitals.

Eighteen years experience in NHS and private practice | Qualified Lactation Consultant IBCLC | Pragmatic, calm, empathetic approach

Baby feeding consultations in person and on video call

I am delighted to offer home visits in London.  This is a wonderful way to practice breast and/or bottle feeding in your own environment.  I provide tailored, empathetic support around all your feeding questions and concerns.  I aim to leave you feeling informed, cared-for and relieved.  Visits tend to last 1-2 hours (we work on baby time) and cost £120. For live availability and to book, click here

“Cathy’s warmth, compassion and expertise were evident immediately and she made me feel both understood and at ease straight away. Her practical advice and reassurance made such a difference in overcoming our initial problems and are the reason that I am still breastfeeding my little girl today.”

If you prefer to connect with me by WhatsApp Video, Skype and Zoom, we arrange a time when your baby is likely to be hungry. Payment can be made by bank transfer, for the reduced fee of £95. Book here.

Discussing breastfeeding with a stranger over video might seem like an odd idea. Please rest assured that I will not be embarrassed and I hope that you will be relaxed in my virtual company. 

“I never thought I would feel comfortable enough to talk about breastfeeding via camera (!) but Cathy makes you feel at ease from your first interaction”

 “Video calling with Cathy saved my breastfeeding journey in the early weeks. She was so reassuring and the video made it feel almost like a face to face appointment.”

Almost all babies are offered a bottle, either as their primary way of feeding or alongside breastfeeding.  I am trained to work with your family on confident and comfortable bottle feeding.  You might be struggling with bottle refusal, we can work together to understand why this is happening and build your baby’s bottle skills.

Everyone deserves support.  If you are in financial difficulties, I will help for a donation of any amount to Medecins Sans Frontieres.

 

 

About me

Here are answers to some of the questions you may have on your mind:

 

What are your qualifications?

I am a qualified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), Certified Breastfeeding Specialist and experienced NCT Breastfeeding Counsellor. I have trained with UNICEF, lactation organisations, specialist midwives and other baby feeding professionals. My bottle feeding education is built on work by Rachel O’Brien, a specialist based in the US.

Over 18 years I have also worked with many hundreds of breastfeeding and bottle feeding mothers. Interestingly, not all midwives, GPs and health visitors are extensively trained in baby feeding. My approach is often different to the standard advice you will have heard, because it is tailored to you and your baby.

Are you inclusive?

Yes! I want all parents to feel as comfortable and supported as possible. For example, I help parents with chest feeding, re-lactation, co-lactation, those who have had breast surgery, people with all kinds of tattoos and piercings, two Mums, two Dads and those having a baby with the help of a surrogate. 

Are you affiliated with the ABM, La Leche or any of the breastfeeding groups?

Each of these organisations does great work. However, I prefer to remain independent. I am careful not to promote a particular way of doing things. It saddens me when mums are sometimes made to feel guilty and inadequate if they are not exclusively breastfeeding. 

Why do you do this job?

I was lucky and had great support with feeding my children. However, so many women are repeatedly told that “breast is best” without having the vital postnatal help they need.  Some go through unnecessary pain and trauma, others live with years of guilt.  Bottle feeding parents struggle to find any sensible and impartial support. 

I love helping families through this special time.  It can be a huge relief for parents to talk through what is going on for them and their baby, and find practical solutions that work for their family. 

Tell me about your style – how do I know if I will be comfortable meeting with you?

Clients say that I am warm and empathetic.  Consultations are super friendly and supportive.  We will probably have tea (I am British, after all). Most breastfeeding mums are comfortable showing me their baby feeding within a few minutes and without a second thought. 

As a person, I am very open. For those who rate Myers Briggs, I am an ENFJ.  I am likely to be a bit late, super cheerful, and I will really want you to like me 😊. I will typically go out of my way to support you.

I have two kids of my own, both grown up.  When I am not working, I love nature and the outdoors.  I am a hill walker, I am happiest in the Lake District in my boots and waterproofs.  I’ve practiced yoga for years but can’t do a headstand.  As a science geek I read about babies, neurology, human behaviour and philosophy.   

 

 

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Please feel free to get in touch on 07720 425 897 or send me a message