About Linda
Linda Merli, RN IBCLC CEIM
Registered Nurse
International Board Certified Lactation
Certified Educator of Infant Massage
Linda Merli, RN, IBCLC
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 11th year of business and I offer non-judgmental, clinical, evidence-based counseling through private home visits.
In addition, I teach prenatal breastfeeding classes at two locations throughout the year in Charleston. Check the website for dates and times at Charleston OB/GYN at their West Ashley office and the Lowcountry Pregnancy Center in North Charleston. Classes at Charleston OB/GYN have not resumed since the global pandemic started in the Spring of 2020. As soon as the masks are eliminated I hope to start teaching there again.
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.
I am a member of the following associations:
- International Association of Lactation Consultants
- Lactation Consultants in Private Practice, LCinPP
- South Carolina Breastfeeding Coalition
- South Carolina Perinatal Association
Federal HIPPA rules and regulations followed.
Service Areas
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