Getting to Know Your IBCLC
Why I Started Shoreline Lactation & Beyond
By Lindsay Leighton-Smith, APRN, NNP-BC, IBCLC
After years of supporting families in the hospital, I started to notice a pattern—new parents arriving with high hopes and detailed feeding plans, only to be met with frustration, confusion, and, too often, unnecessary readmissions. They were doing their best, but so many felt like they were failing. I knew then: something was missing.
I created Shoreline Lactation & Beyond to fill that gap. Families need more than just a few rushed check-ins before discharge—they need community, continuity, and compassion from the very beginning. I wanted to offer that support from the prenatal period all the way through weaning and beyond.
With over two decades of experience as a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner and IBCLC, I’ve cared for some of the tiniest, most vulnerable babies and walked alongside their families through intense, emotional beginnings. But I’ve also lived it myself.
Each of my four children had a different start—and each feeding journey reflected that.
My first was born at 39 weeks, and she just wouldn’t latch. I was inexperienced, had no access to an IBCLC, and ended up relying on a nipple shield. (I had shields everywhere—in the car, the diaper bag, my purse—you name it!) Eventually, I gave up trying to latch altogether and became an exclusive pumper for six months. Let’s just say…I had a full-blown affair with my breast pump. We went everywhere together. It was a committed relationship—just not the one I’d imagined.
My second was also born at 39 weeks, and we faced new challenges—she had a facial droop and low tone, which made latching incredibly difficult. Once again, I didn’t have IBCLC support, and after struggling with pumping, we ultimately switched to formula feeding. It was the best decision for us at the time, but it left me wishing I’d had more guidance.
By the time I had my third, I was more determined—and more informed. She was born at 37 weeks—an early term baby (and I have lots to say about these tricksters!). This time, I met with an amazing outpatient IBCLC who guided me through the process. With her help, I was able to breastfeed for a full year. That support made all the difference.
Then came my youngest, born prematurely at 36 weeks due to preeclampsia. He had a tongue-tie (ankyloglossia), which required treatment, and we also worked with a craniosacral therapist. Even with all my experience, we struggled. But we made it—breastfeeding for a full year with the support of a skilled team and a whole lot of perseverance.
I share this because I want families to know: even with years of experience and clinical training, I still needed help. Feeding isn’t always easy, and that’s okay. You don’t have to do it alone.
Whether you're preparing for baby, navigating early feeds, managing challenges, or looking ahead to weaning, my goal is simple: to walk beside you, every step of the way.
Because feeding your baby shouldn't be a battle—it should be a bond.
