Linda Merli, RN IBCLC
Linda Merli, RN, IBCLC CEIM
Professional Experience
As a Registered Nurse for over 40 years, I have worked with mothers and babies for the last 16 years. As an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, I am committed to providing the care and support that every nursing mother deserves. I am in my 12th year of business and I offer non-judgmental, clinical, evidence-based counseling through private home visits.
Personal Experience
I understand what mothers go through when breastfeeding their infants not only because of my education and training, but also because of my personal experience breastfeeding my 2 sons. My first son had respiratory issues at birth, we were separated and I pumped my breasts like it was my job. He barely came to the breast until day 5 and then he and I went onto have a wonderful breastfeeding relationship that lasted a year. I stopped breastfeeding him at that time because I thought that was what I should do. Although it was not difficult for him, in hindsight I wish I would have continued until it would have been a more natural wean for both of us.
My second son was born 2.5 years later and it was wrought with problems. I gave up breastfeeding him when he was five months old because I thought I had no other choice. Had I contacted a lactation consultant at that time, she could have identified some of the problems we were having and more than likely we would have been able to set up a pumping and feeding plan that would have enabled me to nurse him longer or give him more breast milk.
My Goals
Thus, it is my strong belief that a Lactation Consultant can help mothers nurse their babies as long as they wish and with fewer issues. The support and experience I bring to each of my mothers helps them achieve these goals. It is so important to seek help EARLY for some reasons you may not even be aware of.
Service areas include:
- Awendaw
- Charleston
- Daniel Island
- Folly Beach
- Goose Creek
- Hollywood
- James Island
- Johns Island
- IOP
- Ladson
- Moncks Corner
- North Charleston
- Mt Pleasant
- Ravenel
- Sullivans Island
- Summerville
- West Ashley