Essential Lactation
Providing support for lactation, infant feeding, sleep, and new parent education in Whatcom and Skagit counties
You Weren't Meant to Do This Alone.
Every family deserves to feel seen, heard, and deeply supported. Whether you’re looking for expert lactation care, gentle sleep guidance, or a holistic approach to both, my goal is to help your home feel like a sanctuary again.
I invite you to bring your village into our sessions. Partners, support people, and caregivers are always encouraged to join us if you would like them to be there. We’ll work side-by-side to build a care plan that respects your values and supports your new family bonding.
Helping families find their confidence from the newborn days through weaning is truly my favorite part of this work.
I’d love to hear your story
Fill out my contact form today and let’s connect!
Expecting Parents
Set up your fourth trimester support network before your baby arrives.
Baby is Here
Comprehensive lactation support for you and your baby when you need it most.
In home, office, or virtual
Holistic Sleep Support
Full spectrum sleep support for infants and children through preschool age.
In home, office, or virtual
Classes, Groups, & More
Community connection is so important in the early weeks and beyond of parenting. Whether you are preparing to welcome a new baby, have sleep and feeding questions, or are just craving community, check out my other offerings in partnership with providers from the amazing perinatal community in Whatcom county.
I am deeply dedicated to the wellbeing of families throughout Whatcom and Skagit counties. To ensure the highest level of safety for the newborns and postpartum parents I serve, I remain current on all clinical health recommendations, including seasonal flu and Covid-19 vaccinations.
As an added layer of protection for your home, I continue to wear a medical-grade mask during all in-home consultations. While families are not required to mask, your comfort is my priority, and I welcome any preferences that help you feel most secure in our partnership
Sara Manske RN BSN IBCLC
All Families Welcome Here
*Essential Lactation does not discriminate against employees, business associates, or clients on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, ancestry, creed, citizenship status, sex, gender identity, sexuality, sexual orientation, gender expression, religion, physical ability, appearance, age, family status, or marital status.
*Essential Lactation is an inclusive practice and acknowledges that not all lactating persons identify as female or use the word mother or breastfeeding. Families, parents, and caregivers identify and present in so many different and beautiful ways-so thank you for the trust you grant in working with me.
*Prioritizing continuing education on cultural competency, inclusivity, racial inequities, and LGBTQIA concerns in order to provide the best possible care to all families is at the core of my practice. If Essential Lactation is not the right fit for you, please get in touch so I can help you get connected with the right support for you! Your comfort and safety always comes first.
Please consider donating to the Essential Lactation Community Support Fund if you are financially able and would like to. Your donation helps support families in our community to receive lactation & sleep support they may not be able to on their own. Priority funding given to low-income families, those with disabilities and/or chronic illness, LGBTQIA+ families, BIPOC families, single parents, and those with insurance that does not adequately cover care. By donating, you are positively contributing to our local community. Any amount is so appreciated.