Welcome to Summit to Sea Lactation.
I’m so glad you’re here.
Dana Kihoi, IBCLC, Postpartum Doula, and local mom.
MEET YOUR CONSULTANT
I'm a Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and postpartum doula with over a decade of hands-on experience supporting families through feeding, from the first prenatal question to weaning. My approach is evidence-based and deeply personal — I know how overwhelming those early weeks can feel, and I'm here to make sure you never have to navigate them alone.
I built my practice around one belief: feeding support shouldn't be a single transaction. Every family gets a real relationship and a planned course of care — scheduled follow-up built in from the start, not a one-time fix you're left to figure out alone.
How we're different
Lactation care, reimagined
Most lactation care ends when the visit does. I built my practice around a different model — one where support doesn't stop at the door.
The way it's usually done
- One visit, then you're on your own
- A generic handout that doesn't change as your baby does
- Hope you remember everything from a single hour
- Something new comes up? Book (and pay for) another one-off visit, with someone new
The Summit to Sea way
- A planned course of care, scheduled from your first visit
- A feeding plan that evolves as your baby grows
- Messaging support between visits, built into every package
- Someone who already knows your history when something new comes up
We’re here to help.
Summit to Sea Lactation supports you on every step of your journey.
Every area below is backed by a planned course of care — not a single visit and goodbye.
Feeding challenges
Latch + Nipple Pain
I watch a feed in real time and troubleshoot shallow latch or nipple damage on the spot.
Milk Supply
I help you build supply, manage oversupply, or navigate IGT with a plan built around your body.
Slow Weight Gain
I build a custom feeding plan — weighted feeds, triple feeding, and a clear path off it.
Pumping & clinical support
Mastitis + Inflammation
I offer fast, evidence-based support to help you feel better and prevent it from recurring.
Pumping + Flange Fitting
I make sure your flange actually fits — comfort and output both depend on it.
Oral Ties
I provide pre- and post-procedure support, plus referrals to trusted providers before and after a frenotomy.
Milestones & transitions
Starting Solids
I walk you through the milestones and methods so you feel confident starting solids.
Bottle Introduction + Refusal
I teach a respectful way to introduce a bottle, and troubleshoot when it's not going smoothly.
Return to Work Planning + Weaning
I build a custom plan for returning to work or weaning, paced to make the transition graceful.
Serving Santa Cruz and the South Bay
In-home and virtual visits available.
In-home visits are available throughout Santa Cruz County at no additional cost, with extended service to Los Gatos, San Jose, Sunnyvale, Palo Alto, Redwood City, and Watsonville for a distance fee. Telehealth is available everywhere.
Ready to get started?
FAQs
What services do you offer?
1
We offer breastfeeding and chest-feeding consultations, personalized lactation plans, postpartum support, and feeding education — from your first prenatal question through weaning. No matter where you are in your journey, we're here to meet you there.
Who is postpartum lactation support best for?
2
Postpartum lactation support is for any parent navigating feeding after birth — whether that means working through a specific challenge like pain, latch issues, or supply concerns, or simply wanting steady, experienced support as you settle into this new stage. It's especially valuable for first-time parents who want confidence instead of guesswork, and for anyone who's had a difficult feeding experience with a previous baby and wants this time to go differently. You don't need to be in crisis to reach out — planning ahead for support is just as valid as troubleshooting a problem.
Prenatal visits are about getting you ready before your baby arrives — not just in theory, but specific to your body and your goals. We'll talk through what to expect with feeding, look at any factors that could affect breastfeeding (like flat or inverted nipples, or a history of breast surgery), and build a realistic plan so the first days home feel less overwhelming. It's also your first step into continuous care — by the time your baby is here, you already have someone who knows your history.
What makes you different?
3
Earlier is almost always better than waiting it out. Common reasons families reach out include pain during feeding, a shallow or difficult latch, worries about milk supply — too little or too much — slow weight gain, engorgement, or mastitis, as well as getting ready to introduce a bottle, start solids, or return to work. You don't need a referral or a "big enough" problem. If something doesn't feel right, that's reason enough to ask.
At Summit to Sea Lactation, we believe support shouldn't stop after one visit. We stay with you — from pregnancy through every step that follows — offering care that's thoughtful, personal, and grounded in evidence-based experience. It's not just what we do. It's that we're here with you, the whole way through.
How soon after birth can I see you?
What does prenatal support include?
How can I contact you?
4
If we've already connected prenatally, you'll have priority booking for a visit within 3–4 days of birth — usually right around when you get home from the hospital or birthing center, which is exactly when feeding questions tend to surface. If we haven't met yet, reach out as soon as you're ready and I'll get you scheduled as quickly as I can.
When should I seek lactation support?
You can reach us anytime via our contact page or phone number. We aim to respond quickly—usually within one business day.