Breastfeeding Medicine
Breastfeeding gives babies the best possible start in life, and can be an incredibly healthy and rewarding experience for mothers. However, sometimes mothers and babies struggle or have medical problems that get in the way of breastfeeding.
The Breastfeeding Medicine Program at Inova aims to make the breastfeeding journey as successful as possible for both mother and baby. Our program combines expert clinical experience with dedicated, personalized care to allow each mother to find the best version of breastfeeding success for herself and her baby.
PATIENTS: Download printable brochure 
PHYSICIANS: Download referral pad
We help mothers with all breastfeeding concerns
Breastfeeding Medicine can assist with many breastfeeding related issues that mothers may face, including:
- Latch difficulty
- Infant slow weight gain
- Tongue-tie assessment and frenotomy
- Low milk production
- Oversupply, engorgement or plugged milk ducts
- Nipple pain or injury
- Breast and nipple infections
- Prematurity
- Feeding of twins/multiples
- Weaning
- Breastfeeding following maternal breast surgery
- Pumping and/or returning to work
- Inducing lactation for adoption
Meet our breastfeeding medicine specialist: Karen Bodnar, MD, IBCLC
Karen Bodnar, MD, IBCLC, FABM is a board-certified pediatric hospitalist at Inova Children’s Hospital. She earned her medical degree and completed her residency at the University of Florida.
Dr. Bodnar is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, as well as the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine. In addition, she is an Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).
Dr. Bodnar’s goal is to provide caring support to help mothers succeed at reaching their personal breastfeeding goals.
Contact Us
Inova Medical Group – Breastfeeding Medicine
500 N. Washington Street, Suite 300
Falls Church, VA 22046
571-419-5644