Abbie Bridges

Accept insurances
Verified
Lactation Consultant
Gaithersburg, Maryland
About me

I am an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) with experience in assisting breastfeeding in all stages, from pregnancy to introducing solids to weaning. I graduated in 2021 from the University of Maryland with my Masters in Public Health and have been working ever since to advance community health through education and advocacy. During my first pregnancy, I found the idea of breastfeeding to be overwhelming and despite my background in public health, I felt entirely unprepared for what to expect. Because of key support figures like my lactation consultant and my mom, I was able to work through the challenges and breastfeed my daughter for over two years. Breastfeeding is often framed as something stressful, stifling, and painful. While it can be all of those things at times, with the right support I have found it to be joyful and rewarding. I believe it is time to step aside from the useless debate of breast is best vs. fed is best (which ignores the unique context of every individual), and instead focus on supporting parents and infants through individualized approaches to the goals and environments of each family. My goal is to help you find joy in your own feeding journey and succeed in a breastfeeding relationship that is mutually beneficial, enjoyable, and meaningful for both you and your little one. I can’t wait to work with you!

Education

Masters in Public Health (MPH) (2021)

Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology (2019)

Certification and training

UCSD IBCLC Pathway 2 (2024)

Memberships and affiliations

International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA)

United States Lactation Consultants Association (USLCA)

Credentials
CLC IBCLC MPH
Specialties
Breastfeeding Assistance and Support Breastfeeding Consultation Breastfeeding Support Nipple and Breast Pain Returning to work (pumping, breastmilk storage, etc)
Languages

English

Accepted insurances
Anthem Blue Cross Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) Cigna Multiplan PHCS UnitedHealthcare
Service introduction

Home Visits - Discuss your breastfeeding questions and concerns while remaining in the comfort of your home! This visit will include a thorough medical history of you and your baby, evaluation of your baby’s feeding at the breast, breastfeeding education, and assessment the condition of your breasts and baby’s oral anatomy. We will work together to create a plan of care that is reasonable and mutually beneficial for both you and your baby. I can travel within a ~20 mile radius of the 20879 zip code in Gaithersburg, MD. I am willing to negotiate further distances for an additional travel fee. Virtual Appointments - For parents who are outside my travel radius, virtual visits are an excellent way to discuss your breastfeeding questions and concerns over encrypted, HIPAA-compliant video chat. We will work together to create a plan of care that is reasonable and mutually beneficial for both you and your baby. I recommend this option for pregnant parents interested in preparing for their breastfeeding journey. Text Support - Unlimited text support with less than 24 hour response time in normal business hours. Please note that this text advice does not substitute for a clinical plan of care.

Packages
Initial Home Visit
Average 1.5-2 hrs
$250.00
USD Flat rate
Follow-Up Home Visit
Average 1 hr
$150.00
USD Flat rate
Initial Telehealth Visit
Average 1-1.5 hours
$150.00
USD Flat rate
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Frequently asked questions
Do you offer sliding scale services?
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