Breast is best

For many women, the most sacred moment in their lives is when they first connect with their child.

Playing an integral role in that connection is how to nurture your child and Julie Moran Ocon, a board-certified lactation consultant for over 20 years, recently started Latchology LI, a private service to aid mothers in the unbreakable bond of breastfeeding.

Ocon herself became a mother in 1999 and again in 2001, where she said it was apparent that not a lot of support was available for new mothers in the way of breastfeeding services.

“While breastfeeding is natural, it doesn’t always come naturally to a new parent. As the lactation coordinator at the hospital, I was limited as to the amount of time I could spend with each patient. It has always been a dream of mine to have a private practice, where I could work one-on-one with the patient and not feel rushed,” said Ocon.

“Whether a mom nurses a few days, a few months, or years, each drop of breast milk is a gift,” said Ocon. “I believe in empowering families with information and encouragement so they can make choices that feel right for them.”

Latchology LI services include prenatal breastfeeding classes as well as post-delivery lactation consultations with in-person and Zoom options.

“I must admit, I prefer going to a mom’s home, where she is most comfortable, and I feel I can provide better service,” said Ocon.

In European countries, breastfeeding is quite common and usually occurs until the child is an older toddler.

“Here in the U.S., because of the sexualization of the breast (thanks a lot, Hugh), many women are not as comfortable nursing. We have come a long way in normalizing breast/chest feeding, but we have a pretty long way to go,” said Ocon.

In addition, European parents are eligible for a generous maternity/paternity leave (typically a year), which may be taken any time before the child’s 18th birthday.

“In this country, mothers must exhaust all of their PTO time before they can then use paid family leave. Many moms are very stressed with the thought of having to pump enough milk during the workday. Part of my consultation teaches new moms how to use their breast pump, ensuring they are using the correct flange size, and proper expression and storage of milk,” said Ocon.

The beauty and advancement of Latchology LI is to customize every family’s unique breastfeeding journey.

“A one-size-fits-all approach will never work. My job is to tune in to each family’s individual story—considering that breastfeeding doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Stress, mental health, previous trauma, family dynamics, and cultural beliefs need to be carefully considered. I meet families where they are without judgment and offer compassionate care,” said Ocon.

In her practice, Ocon found that many families are unaware that breast milk changes its composition in real time to meet a baby’s specific needs—even during a single feeding.

“For example, the milk a mother produces when her baby is sick contains more antibodies and immunoglobulins to help the baby fight off illness. Breast milk can change in consistency, fat content, and hydration level throughout the day, based on babies’ needs. It’s like magic, I always like to say! A custom-made superfood that evolves in real time,” said Ocon.

Empowerment is the goal Ocon has created for herself and her clients.

“I would truly hope that they feel heard, seen, and supported. The postpartum period is such a vulnerable time for new parents. If they walk away feeling relieved, reassured, and confident, I know I have done my job well. Most of all, I hope my patients feel proud. Because to me, success isn’t measured in ounces or perfect latches, but rather in a parent knowing, deep down, ‘I’ve got this!’ said Ocon.

Currently, Ocon is working with the Bayport-Blue Point Public Library to offer free breastfeeding classes.

A “fabulous” baby shower first, Ocon offers two ways to go about payment including: 1) paying the free upfront and a super-bill being sent to the insurance company or 2) in cooperation with Lactation Network, Ocon can accept many insurance plans.

“If the patient cannot afford my fee, I will work with them by giving a discount. I accept Venmo, Zelle, or Apple Pay,” said Ocon.

The typical price is $300 for 90 to 120 minutes.

“Every time a baby gains another ounce, every time a baby latches well, or a mom or dad sends me a picture of their baby with those cute chubby thigh rolls, I am reminded how lucky I am to get to do this work. Because breastfeeding isn’t just about the baby—it’s about building confidence, nurturing connection, and supporting good health from the very beginning,” said Ocon.