No. 2 | Beth Lisauskas

Lactation Consultant in Chicago, Illinois

Disclaimer: The insights shared in this article reflect the personal experiences and professional perspective of Beth Lisauskas exclusively. They are not intended to replace medical advice or represent the views of any healthcare system. If you have specific questions or concerns, please consult your doctor or a licensed healthcare provider.

Beth Lisauskas has spent nearly four decades guiding new families through some of life’s most tender transitions. As a longtime registered nurse and board-certified lactation consultant, she’s supported thousands of parents as they navigate the confusing, emotional, and deeply human experience of feeding a newborn—offering not just clinical expertise, but compassion, calm, and the occasional well-timed laugh. In this edition of Silhouette: Profiles on Women, she opens up about everything from the evolution of breastfeeding culture to the realities of milk production, myths that won’t die, and what it means to truly support a new mom—not just with information, but with empathy. She shares her top tips, her most trusted product recs, and her personal journey through motherhood, breast cancer, and beyond.

Oh—and she also happens to be my mom!

So, let’s begin.

Lauren | For the last thirty years, you’ve been “Mom”.  I’ve obviously known you were a nurse, and then became a lactation consultant, but I really never asked you questions about what that entire, large, longstanding part of your life and identity are like! I am so sorry it’s taken this long, but I’m thrilled it’s finally happening nevertheless. Tell us a little bit about your credentials to start this conversation.

Beth |  I began as an RN 37 years ago at the same Chicago teaching hospital I am still at today! My first day was actually June 27, 1988, which seven years later would be your birthday!  When I first began, I did a brief stint in Oncology. However, I soon realized I wanted to experience another facet in healthcare, bringing new life into this world! I transitioned into postpartum, normal newborn, and also worked in labor and delivery and occasionally in NICU. I also simultaneously worked at a teaching hospital in Michigan for one year in 1991 while Dad was getting his MBA. I worked weekends at the Chicago hospital and a few weekdays in between at the Michigan hospital. Eventually, in 2018, I earned my International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (“IBCLC”) credentials, and “officially” became a lactation consultant!

What inspired you after three decades of “floor” nursing to seek out a new certification and transition your career to exclusively lactation consulting?

When I was a staff OB RN, I always enjoyed the part of helping my patients get set up for success regarding their feeding goals. As a staff nurse, I often found I did not have the time to devote to solely breastfeeding and feeding support when I had so many other tasks that needed to be addressed and completed. I always held great appreciation for our lactation consultants and I finally decided that this would be a great segue at this point in my career to be able to focus more on my passion. 

The credentialing to be IBCLC certified was not a walk in the park - I am required to have 500 hours of direct breastfeeding assistance with patients, and I have to have 75 hours of continuing education specific to breastfeeding every 5 years. Upon initially meeting those requirements, I then studied and sat for my first IBCLC exam, and was so excited when I met the score requirements to receive my licensure. I recertify every five years so I am always up to date with current research and practices.

Speaking of staying up to date, how has the field of lactation consulting changed since you began as a nurse in the 80s?

You know, women have been breastfeeding since literally the beginning of time! The mechanics of breastfeeding haven’t really changed all that much, but our societal relationship to it and technology of course are impactful. 

For example, years ago it was more common to formula feed, and formula companies actually gave every single patient at my hospital a diaper bag with free formula and coupons when they left.  In contrast, today, formula companies are generally prohibited from providing free formula and gifts to postpartum patients in healthcare facilities, largely due to regulations hospitals have in place. A lot of people don’t realize that the World Health Organization (“WHO”) actually has in place an International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes, which is a set of recommendations to regulate the marketing of breast-milk substitutes like infant formula, the spirit of which many U.S. institutions follow. 

I would also say I have noticed a resurgence in normalizing the natural aspect of breastfeeding a baby for nutrition in public places, and I am really encouraged to see that women are receiving protected pumping time and private spaces in the workplace. I even see pumping stations in places like airports and sports venues these days! 

From a research standpoint, there also has been increased knowledge around breastmilk physiology and actual newborn needs for the first few days, as well as improved support from medical teams as to the benefits of breastmilk for newborns, including fragile populations such as premature and medically challenged NICU babies. Breastmilk provides beneficial fats and antibodies that enhance and protect neurologic tissues, brain and gut development, and immature immune systems, so it’s very beneficial for all babies, but, in particular, babies in NICU.

Let’s get to it - what exactly do you do as a lactation consultant? When do you begin to play a role in the entire newborn experience?

My role actually begins before a baby is born! If you’re feeling anxious or just eager, you can always communicate with a lactation consultant preemptively about your goals, your health history, and your anatomy if you have any concerns. Then, immediately following birth, I can assist with hand expression and latching - especially during the important “golden hours” right after delivery when the baby is alert and still has mama’s glucose on board for breastfeeding energy.  Then, in the days and weeks following birth, I can help assess latch and milk supply, as well identify and provide solutions to problems that either have arisen or look like they might arise.

What about if a Mom or family already knows they don’t want to breastfeed? Are you still a worthwhile resource for them, or should they just “opt out” of a visit?

We are definitely still a worthwhile resource and I highly recommend moms not interested in breastfeeding still meet with a lactation consultant! We can often assist with breast issues that can happen to any new mom, like engorgement treatment, mastitis prevention, and even supplemental volume guidelines according to newborn’s hour of age and stomach capacity.

Are lactation consultants able to support mothers of premature babies or newborns in the NICU? 

Absolutely! With these families, I will discuss NICU pumping and storage guidelines, along with preterm expectations. I try to provide these families with concise, written plans on how to help support a full breastmilk supply, along with how to make sure their newborn is getting their necessary calories.  I try to emphasize especially with these parents how important it is that they have patience and give themselves grace as they work in unimaginable conditions and encourage them that, though it may look different and take time, they can still achieve ultimate feeding goals like every other family. 

I am curious- what about if both parents of a baby are gay or were assigned male at birth? Can you help these parents play a direct role in breastfeeding? 

Yes - thank you for asking this question! We can assist with chestfeeding in which the parent can feed newborn donor breast milk or formula through a device called a SNS by Medela.  This allows the parent to mimic feeding at the chest and provide skin to skin and bonding opportunities while doing it. Each situation is distinct, so working with a lactation consultant is very beneficial. 

I can imagine a lot of parents are overwhelmed when they first meet with a lactation consultant, because they literally have just brought a baby into the world. Talk about being taken to the physical and emotional limits of humanity! How do you recommend a new parent prepare to meet with their lactation consultant? Are there any questions they should have ready to ask in advance?

I definitely say make sure there are “another set of ears” present, ideally the parenting partner, to listen and take notes.  You will want to be prepared to speak to what your feeding goals are so that can be addressed first.  Then, it’s helpful to confirm what the best breast pump for your situation will be, how to be set up for success in your home environment, and how your partners, family, and friends can help support.  Finally, make sure to ask how you can contact your lactation consultant if other needs arise. 

I’ve buried the lead long enough.  Do you think “breast is best”?

People are shocked to hear that as a lactation consultant my answer is a definitive “no”!  My job is not to push an agenda of breastfeeding on patients. Instead, I emphasize that the most important priority is a happy family unit, one that is mentally, physically, and emotionally healthy.  The feeding method that achieves those priorities in any given situation is what is “best”. 

Okay, let’s stay on the topic of misconceptions.  What other myths do new parents seem to believe? Are there any common mistakes that you often see? 

The most common myth is that breastfeeding is easy! (laughter) I often say that if it was “easy” I wouldn’t have a job! 

As for common mistakes, there’s no such thing as “too much” skin to skin! It’s so important to practice with parents and other family members. Being bundled in an open crib across the room is a very unfamiliar environment for a new baby! Skin to skin promotes bonding, allows parents to observe early hunger cues, assists the baby in regulating heart rate, blood sugar, and temperature, and some research has even indicated an increase in brain neurons during skin to skin!  Also, there is no such thing as “overfeeding” a breastfed baby. They instinctively will eat what they need, and the more “demand” the baby provides, the more milk supply the mama will make. On demand breastfeeding means the baby’s demand - not ours! (laughter)

Now that misconceptions, myths, and mistakes are out of the way, let’s turn to the positive! What are your ultimate top tips for successful breastfeeding?  

First, take as many classes (and read) as much as you can on breastfeeding and newborn care! Typically, there are courses offered at your delivery hospital.  Education and retention is best done prior to finding yourself in the “newborn trenches” when no one has had sleep or can see straight! (laughter) 

I also recommend that you meet with a lactation consultant for the first time prior to delivery and then again sometime within the first seven days after delivery.  I encourage new parents to start by calling their insurance companies, ask how many lactation visits they are covered for, and ask for names of in-network IBCLC groups. I would recommend calling them and setting up that  first visit prenatally and the second one sometime within the first seven days after they come home from the hospital.

A common challenge I hear from new moms is the challenge of dealing with low milk supply. Any solutions or recommendations for moms that find themselves facing this obstacle? 

There can be several reasons a parent may have a low milk supply. 

Generally (not in every case, but generally), breastmilk supply is basic economics; supply equals demand. We need at least eight times of “demand” or stimulation at the breasts per 24 hours  to ensure a full milk supply. “Demand” can be achieved by the baby latching, by using a breast pump, or both.  Lactation cookies and galactogogue herbs can sometimes slightly help  with supply, but I call those ‘cherry on the top’ - not the dealmakers. 

New moms need 500 extra calories per day during lactation to make food for an ever growing baby, along with at least eight glasses of water per day. It is also ideal to continue taking a prenatal vitamin as long as you are making milk.  

That being said, mothers with a medical history of diabetes, infertility, thyroid disease, obesity, PCOS might face difficulties even after trying all the above tips, as these conditions all relate to hormonal issues and can impact milk supply. Breast surgeries can also impact supply, as well as anatomy such as insufficient glandular tissue. In these instances, it may be advised to do some additional “insurance pumping sessions” beyond the eight times every 24 hours in combination with allowing the baby to breastfeed on demand to ensure a good milk supply. If you have any of these conditions, I recommend addressing them proactively during your first meeting with a lactation consultant so you can start to work on specific solutions.

You mention that breast surgeries can impact supply. Tell me more about this! 

Breast surgery involves dissecting the ducts and glands, and, in the case of reductions, removing glandular tissue. Augmentations don’t always lead to low supply, and often we will see full supply in these moms, especially with the ‘newer’ techniques the  surgeons are using.  But, in my experience, reductions often can result in at least a reduced supply.  Incorporating pumping sessions can provide the best chance at the best supply, but it is also important to discuss with your lactation consultant what the best approach is.

Breastfeeding I’m sure can feel like a ton of pressure to a new mom because it’s a task only she can technically do. What can husbands, partners, grandparents, or other support do to best assist a new mom in her breastfeeding journey? 

Provide the new mom in your life with as much support as possible so they can focus on the literal full time job of feeding their newborn - I’m not exaggerating, a breastfeeding mother spends 25-40 hours a week feeding her newborn baby for its first few months of life! Help her get physically set up for success in the home with a nursing station, a water bottle, back support, a breastfeeding pillow. Then, take care of the newborn tasks that she doesn’t have to do - change and burp the baby, offer skin to skin contact naps, provide nutritious meals, assist with cooking, cleaning, errands and such.  Unless the new parents decide otherwise, the early days and weeks are not for entertaining guests. Help them set respectful boundaries for well-intentioned visitors drop-in!  Being a new parent is like being on an airplane. In turbulent times, it’s important to put on your oxygen mask first, then you will be able bodied to take care of your child’s needs.  

In that same vein, if you could tell every new mom just one thing, what would that be? 

We are all doing the best that we can, and that is good enough!  Give yourselves and your new baby patience and grace as you navigate this new territory together.  Breastfeeding is a new skill - it’s just like pickleball or mahjong! (laughter) It requires time, patience, and lots of practice! 

Are there any other resources on breastfeeding that you recommend? 

Kellymom.com, ILCA.org, and bfmed.com are trusted sites. I also highly recommend the Dr. Jane Morton, Stanford University, YouTube video on hand expression. It’s excellent.  When you choose your pediatrician, make sure to ask them if they offer lactation support in their office. 

Finally, I cannot emphasize enough how much I encourage parents to call their insurance companies a few months prior to delivery and specifically ask how many lactation visits they are covered for, as well as for the names of in-network lactation providers and groups. Once you select a provider, set-up a meet-and-greet before birth, and then once you’ve delivered, have your partner or a family member contact them to schedule a follow-up visit during your first week at home with the baby. 

So, amidst all of this ground we’ve covered, is there anything about breastfeeding or your job as a lactation consultant that you think people would be surprised to learn? 

No two babies are the same! No two deliveries or situations are the same! I will have parents that have five children meet me and have new questions, saying things like “None of my other babies ever did” this or that!  And I tell them “That’s because this is a different baby!” (laughter)  In other words, no two days of my job are ever the same, which always keeps the workflow interesting and fulfilling.  Plus, I achieve such satisfaction and gratitude from helping someone during a lifechanging period. 

If you’re comfortable, Mom, would you share a bit about your personal breastfeeding experience? 

I was twenty-five in 1992 when we had our first child, Nick. I remember thinking that I would like to try breastfeeding, but that the free formula I received in a gift pack could be a back up since he was late preterm! I wasn’t emotionally or mentally “set” on one or the other, and there was definitely less societal pressure in my opinion to breastfeed exclusively.  

Candidly, breastfeeding went well for me for both of you guys - even despite the fact I had to go back to work just four weeks after my c-section with Nick! Yep, FMLA wasn’t even enacted at that time, let alone paid maternity leave.  Even though I did pump breastmilk as I could, you guys got formula if I didn’t have enough stored.  My coworkers were very understanding and helpful when I needed to pump at work too - back then, there was no legally protected right to have a private place or the time to pump! Times have changed thank goodness. 

That said, supplementing with formula from the early days wasn’t a big deal to me because I knew you two were loved and, most importantly, I knew you two would be fed if breastfeeding didn’t work. I just didn’t put the same pressure on myself that I see new moms do these days (again, mostly because society wasn’t placing these pressures on me). And I think you and Nick turned out alright! (Editor’s note: I agree).

I remember those days and their challenges so well, and so new parents always hold a special place in my heart. It ain’t easy in those newborn trenches!!!

I also find it so compellingly ironic that you literally work with breasts every single day at work when you yourself are a breast cancer survivor who underwent a double mastectomy in 2021.  Has that experience influenced your work as a lactation consultant at all? 

I have a renewed sense of gratitude for my breasts and what they did to help me feed my newborns 30 years ago. But, when they were no longer useful and trying to “off me” it was time for them to go!!! (laughter) 

Unfortunately, we see more and more young moms with a breast cancer diagnosis today, but we can devise a plan to work around chemo, a radiated breast, or a single mastectomy in which the baby just nurses on one side, to name a few situations. I think my experience allows me the unique ability to lend an empathetic ear and have first-hand knowledge of what someone is going through.  I am grateful that it encourages my patients to open up and discuss their fears and concerns with me. 

We’ve covered such heartfelt, informative, and serious topics, so let’s end on a fun note! It’s become uber popular to bring in little gifts for your nurses when you give birth. What do you guys actually want to receive? What items fall in the category of “it’s the thought that counts” but please pass? 

Everyone does honestly appreciate the thought, but homemade sweets, pens (hot commodities in the hospital!), badge holders, a basket of snacks or drinks to grab on the go, or Starbucks gift cards are definite favorites to name a few.  A handwritten card and a positive comment on the patient survey is extremely appreciated too!

And, of course, to close, I need to ask - where are you having your dream french fries & champagne? 

On a beach in Hawaii, specifically this upcoming February 2026 when me and Dad go to celebrate our 35th wedding anniversary!

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