Hi! I’m Natassia.
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC)
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist
Welcome to Little Sprout Lactation Care! I’m delighted to offer a unique integration of lactation consulting and oral function expertise, driven by my passion for holistic health and the profound connection between oral health and overall well-being.
My journey began in the field of dentistry in 2012, sparking my interest in the intricate links between oral health and systemic health. With a foundation as a Registered Dental Hygienist and a bachelor’s degree in Health Care Sciences from Nova Southeastern University, I’ve built a solid base in clinical care and health sciences.
I pursued further education in lactation studies at UC San Diego, earning my certification as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). A key focus of my practice is tethered oral tissues, such as tongue ties and lip ties, where I’ve undergone extensive training to provide specialized support in this area.
In addition to my lactation and dental training, I have studied myofunctional therapy, which complements my work as a lactation consultant. Myofunctional therapy helps address and manage oral muscle function issues that can impact breastfeeding. This additional training enables me to offer a comprehensive approach to support optimal breastfeeding outcomes.
This holistic approach allows me to thoroughly evaluate and address oral restrictions that may affect breastfeeding success. My goal is to empower families with personalized education and support tailored to their unique needs, ensuring a positive and successful breastfeeding experience.
I look forward to partnering with you on your breastfeeding journey, providing expert care and guidance to support your family’s goals.
Hi! I’m Heidy.
Registered Nurse (RN)
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC)
Hi, I’m Heidy Pena, and I’m a Mother and Baby Nurse with six years of experience and an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) for the past year. As a mother of two, I understand the challenges and frustrations many mothers face, especially when it comes to breastfeeding. I chose this career after experiencing the struggle to find the support I needed with both of my children. It was through that personal journey that I realized how important it is for mothers to have the right guidance and support during their pregnancy and postpartum stages.
My career began as a Breastfeeding Peer Counselor with the WIC program, where I built a strong foundation in supporting mothers. That experience inspired me to pursue further education and become a Mother and Baby Nurse. After completing my nursing education, I was thrilled to earn my IBCLC certification last year, which allowed me to continue supporting mothers and babies, especially in the hospital setting.
I’m truly passionate about breastfeeding support, and it’s an area I’m excited to dedicate more of my time to. I believe empathy, knowledge, and commitment are key to overcoming the challenges that mothers often face on this journey. I’m here to provide the care, support, and encouragement you need to feel confident and supported as you navigate this incredible, yet sometimes overwhelming, time with your baby.
