Specialist breastfeeding, infant feeding and early parenting support in East Sussex
With Alicia Cole, IBCLC Lactation Consultant & Health Visitor
Hello, I’m Alicia.
I am an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), Health Visitor, and Registered Paediatric Nurse. I bring over a decade of experience working with babies and supporting parents through some of the most vulnerable and important moments of their lives, I am honored to be a trusted partner on your unique parenting journey.
I offer specialist in-person support to families in East Sussex and the surrounding areas, as well as virtual consultations for those further afield.
As a mother of two young children, I understand firsthand the challenges that can arise in the early weeks and months, especially when it comes to breastfeeding. I offer not only extensive professional, evidence-based knowledge, but also personal understanding and empathy. My approach is grounded in individualised and inclusive care, ensuring that every family feels heard, supported, and empowered to meet their feeding and parenting goals.
You know your baby best.
Babies don’t come with a manual, and I’m not here to give you one. Every baby and family is different, there is no such thing as 'one size fits all' in parenting. I’ll listen to your concerns, offer gentle, evidence-based guidance and practical tips, and help you make informed decisions that work for you and your family.
How can I help you?
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Antenatal Education
At your home, by video call, or over coffee in town - this appointment is designed to support expectant parents in feeling informed, confident, and empowered as they prepare for their feeding journey. We’ll talk through your individual feeding goals, expectations, and any previous experiences. We’ll cover the basics, including newborn care, discuss what’s normal in the early days, and explore how to set realistic expectations.
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Breastfeeding Support
Whether it’s day 2 or day 2000, breastfeeding can come with questions, challenges, and changing goals. As an IBCLC, I offer expert breastfeeding support that’s grounded in up-to-date, evidence-based practice and shaped around your unique experiences. From sore nipples and latch issues to supply concerns and nursing strikes, we’ll work together to find solutions that feel right for you.
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Bottle & Combi Feeding Support
Whether you have chosen to bottle feed from the start or have found yourself needing to combine breast and bottle at any stage, your feeding journey deserves support and clarity. I offer non-judgemental, evidence-based guidance to help you feel confident with paced and responsive feeding, choosing the right equipment, maintaining milk supply (if relevant), making and storing feeds, and meeting your baby’s changing needs.
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Early Parenting Coaching Support
As a Specialist Public Health Nurse I am experienced in supporting you in whatever way you need in your early parenting journey. Whether you've opted out of the NHS Health Visiting Programme, or in addition to - I offer flexible, tailored care that fits your family.
This can be a one-off visit or the beginning of a personalised support plan. I can provide growth monitoring, developmental assessments, emotional wellbeing support, and evidence-based guidance on a wide range of child health topics - all with a compassionate, non-judgemental approach.
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Introducing Solid Foods
Around 6 months of age, many parents feel overwhelmed by the idea of starting solids - especially when faced with conflicting advice and pressure from others. Whether you're preparing to begin or have already started and it’s not going as expected, I'm here to support you through this important milestone.
Together, we can explore different approaches to introducing foods, troubleshoot any concerns, and create a personalised, evidence-based plan that suits your baby and your family.
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Virtual Support
No matter where you are in the world or what feeding or parenting challenges you're facing, I’m here to help. Virtual support ranges from a quick 15-minute phone call to answer generic questions, to full infant feeding consultations.
I also offer WhatsApp packages where you can share photos, videos and voice notes. This service can be purchased for gentle guidance and peace of mind or included for free following a face-to-face appointment.
What Parents Say
“She gave me the confidence I needed and made my first breastfeeding journey (after two bottle fed babies) so much easier”
Kirsty
“Alicia was incredible. She took the time to provide clear, detailed advice and genuine support, making me feel heard and reassured at a time when I needed it most”
Lucy
“Her knowledge is next to none and I wouldn’t have fed as long as I did without her guidance. If you’re wanting to breastfeed but are struggling, Alicia will make it happen for you”
Emma
Arrange a consultation
I know how important it is to get the right support at the right time - I’ve even been known to visit within a few hours! In most cases, I can see you within 48 hours and in a lot of cases within 24 hours.
Please complete the form below and I will get back to you as soon as I can.