Helping NICU, Preemie & Complex-Needs Feeding Support in Tucson
Your baby's start didn't go to plan, and feeding feels like one more thing you're supposed to master under fluorescent lights. You don't have to figure it out alone. I'm Melissa Furrier, an RN and IBCLC with 18 years in maternal-child nursing, including high-acuity neonatal care. I help families feed babies whose bodies need a little more help.
Who I Help
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Babies born early, or who spent time in the NICU or special care nursery
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Babies with heart defects, low muscle tone, or genetic conditions such as Down syndrome
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Babies with cleft lip or palate, tongue ties, or other oral challenges
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Babies with slow weight gain or feeding fatigue
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Babies fed by tube, bottle, or a mix, whose parents want to add or keep breastfeeding
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Parents exclusively pumping or protecting their supply while baby is still in the hospital
How I Can Help
Pumping plans that protect your supply. Whether your baby is in the NICU or home and not yet nursing well, we'll build a pumping schedule that fits your life, check your flange fit, and plan for the weeks ahead.
Moving toward the breast, at your pace. Many babies who start on tubes or bottles can learn to breastfeed gradually. We'll set a realistic goal, whether that's full nursing, some nursing, or pumped milk by bottle.
Feeding plans that fit your baby's medical needs. I work alongside your pediatrician, specialists, and feeding therapists, not instead of them. Your plan will account for weight goals, fluid limits, and fatigue.
Support once you're home. The first weeks after discharge are often the hardest. In-home visits and phone and text follow-up mean you're not waiting days for answers.
Why this work matters to me
My daughter was born at 34 weeks and spent 28 days in the NICU before she was diagnosed with a rare genetic condition. Low muscle tone and a heart defect made feeding a long road: pumping, bottles, tube feeds, and practice at the breast. We got there with the help of skilled lactation consultants. Now I get to be that person for other families.
What parents say
"My 1st daughter was born with a critical congenital heart defect, had open heart surgery at 10 days old, and nursing was very challenging as she was tube fed. I exclusively pumped and Melissa helped with creating a schedule... She is so empathic and compassionate in her approach." — Stacy L.
Common Questions
Can you help while my baby is still in the hospital? Yes. I can help you set up a pumping plan, protect your supply, and prepare for discharge through in-home visits and phone or text support.
Is it too late to breastfeed if my baby is used to a bottle or tube? Often it isn't. Many babies transition gradually, and partial breastfeeding still counts. We'll set goals that make sense for your baby and your family.
Do I have to exclusively breastfeed to work with you? No. Whether your plan includes pumping, donor milk, formula, or a combination, you'll get the same support. The best feeding plan works for everyone in your family.
Will you coordinate with my baby's doctors? Yes. With your permission, I'm happy to share notes with your pediatrician and specialists so everyone is working from the same plan.
Do you take insurance? I don't bill insurance directly, but I provide a superbill you can submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement. Check with your plan about its lactation coverage.
