Irina Sukhanova is an international board-certified lactation consultant at Atrium Health Levine Children’s Suburban Pediatrics. Her clinical interests include establishing and maintaining milk supply, breastfeeding full-term and preterm infants, and therapeutic techniques in lactation.

Irina first learned about lactation as a NICU nurse while she was helping her little patients grow. “It was inspiring to hear from moms how lactation consultants were a tremendous source of help and comfort to them,” she says.

Irina says helping new moms overcome breastfeeding challenges and watching as breastfeeding becomes more natural to them is what makes her job rewarding. “It’s a great profession that allows me to play a part in the very special relationship between a mom and her baby,” she says.

One common misunderstanding Irina has noticed is that families think they should only see a lactation consultant if they’re having problems. “The best time to schedule an appointment with a lactation consultant is before the baby is born,” she says. “Prenatal consultation can help to avoid common mistakes and give the best start to your breastfeeding journey.”

When she’s not working with patients, Irina enjoys traveling and learning about new cultures, spending time in nature, and trying new dishes using whole-food, plant-based ingredients.