Frequently Asked Questions
General Information
What does Lacto Labs do?
Lacto Labs provides services to analyze the nutritional content of breast milk. By doing so, they help mothers understand what nutrients their baby is receiving and offer advice on how to enhance milk quality through dietary adjustments.
Why should I test my breast milk?
Testing your breast milk gives you insight into the nutrients your baby is getting, which can help you make informed decisions about your diet and supplementation. It can also identify any potential deficiencies or contaminants in your milk that could affect your baby’s health.
Shipping
What does the breast milk testing involve?
Breast milk testing involves collecting a small sample of your milk, sending it to the lab using the kit provided, and receiving detailed results that highlight nutrient levels, including fats, proteins, and vitamins, as well as screening for possible toxins and allergens.
How do I use the testing kit?
Once you receive the testing kit, follow the provided instructions to collect a milk sample over a day’s (24 hours) worth of pumping. The kit includes prepaid shipping, making it easy to return the sample to Lacto Labs for analysis.
How long does it take to get my results?
After sending your sample, it typically takes 5–7 business days to receive your results for most standard tests. More advanced tests, which include screening for environmental toxins, may take up to three weeks.
Subscription
What happens if the test finds a nutrient deficiency?
If the results indicate any nutrient deficiency or increased levels of a nutrient, Lacto Labs offers personalized dietary recommendations to help address the issue. You may also share the results with your healthcare provider, lactation consultant, or dietitian for further guidance.
Can I track changes in my breast milk over time?
Yes! Many moms choose to test their milk multiple times through our subscriptions or by purchasing additional tests during their breastfeeding journey to monitor how dietary changes or other factors impact their milk’s nutritional profile.
What should I do if my milk test results show elevated levels of toxins?
If your results indicate higher-than-normal levels of contaminants such as lead or mercury, it's crucial to consult with your healthcare provider. They can recommend strategies to reduce your exposure to environmental toxins and suggest dietary changes that may help.
Are the results confidential?
Yes, all results are private and secure. You can choose to share them with healthcare providers, but the information will not be disclosed to any third parties without your consent.
Account
Is this test covered by insurance?
Breast milk testing is not always covered by insurance. However, some mothers have been successful in getting reimbursements through health savings accounts (HSAs) or flexible spending accounts (FSAs).
Can I use the service if I’m supplementing with formula?
Absolutely! Even if you are supplementing, testing your breast milk can give you insights into the nutritional content your baby is receiving, which can help in planning a balanced feeding routine.
How often should I test my breast milk?
There is no strict guideline, but many mothers choose to test their breast milk periodically—such as after major dietary changes, during different stages of their baby’s growth, or if they notice any changes in their baby’s health or feeding patterns.
Can I test my milk if I’m exclusively pumping or only breastfeeding part-time?
Yes, the test works whether you're exclusively breastfeeding, pumping, or doing a combination of both. It offers valuable insights into your milk’s nutritional profile regardless of your feeding method.
Health and Nutrition
Can I test my milk if I have a preexisting condition or if I am on medication?
Yes, you can still test your breast milk even if you have a preexisting condition or are on medication. However, it's important to inform your healthcare provider about any test results so they can provide you with tailored guidance.
Is breast milk testing helpful if my baby has allergies?
Breast milk testing can be particularly beneficial for mothers of babies with allergies. By understanding the specific composition of your milk, you can make dietary adjustments that may help minimize allergens or irritants passed through your milk.
Do I need to change my diet before testing my breast milk?
No, there is no need to alter your diet before testing. In fact, testing your milk while following your usual diet provides the most accurate reflection of the nutrients and other compounds your baby is receiving.
How does diet impact the quality of my breast milk?
Your diet can influence certain elements of breast milk, particularly fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. However, breast milk naturally adjusts to provide your baby with essential nutrients, even if your diet isn't perfect. Testing helps identify specific areas where you can optimize your nutrition for your baby’s benefit.
Additional Support
Can I use breast milk testing to support weaning decisions?
Yes, some mothers use breast milk testing to help them decide when and how to wean their babies. Understanding the nutritional content of your milk can offer insight into when supplementation or other feeding changes might be necessary.
How can I contact customer support?
For any questions or concerns, you can contact Lacto Labs at info@lactolabs.com or visit their website for more information on how to use their services.