Jen Deshaies, IBCLC

Owner of Syracuse Lactation 

I love Birth.

I love Breastfeeding. 

I find myself saying these things over and over; they are part of me. This is who I am.

And now I am living my dream- helping families during the birthing process and make milk for their babies. I am honored to do this work, to be a part of so many families at such an important time in their lives.

My whole life, I wanted to be a mother.  I was thrilled to be pregnant, and my experiences during my transition to motherhood shaped me. I quickly found that helping others through their personal journey to parenthood was my calling, and I have spent many years learning about birth and breastfeeding to professionally help other families.

I feel called to this work, and I feel grateful that I can follow this dream. As a wife and mother of a daughter & son, my family is on this journey with me. They too believe in this work for me.

My philosophy is to support my clients in any path they choose, and keep giving options so they are informed of their decisions. I am often reminded how much goes into a breastfeeding/chestfeeding relationship, and the countless small and big things that impact feeding. Every family is different, and I deeply feel that each family should make the decisions that are best for them. 

Thank you for allowing me into your life and to be a part of your journey into motherhood, if it is for the first or fifth time. With every child, you are birthed again as a parent.  I am grateful to be a part of this experience with your family.

~ Jen Deshaies, IBCLC

she/her

Kelly, RN, BSN, CBS (she/her)

My journey towards lactation looks similar to a squiggly road map. I have a bachelors in nutrition science from Syracuse University and a bachelors in nursing from Le Moyne College. While studying for each program, there were lectures dedicated to lactation and the science of breastmilk. I remember being amazed (still am!) by the intricate properties of breastmilk and the long list of benefits for both lactating parent and baby. 

Fast forward to September 2021, I became a new mom and that awe and amazement quickly turned to frustration as I tried to latch my hours-old son. Thankfully, my sister insisted I see an IBCLC, specifically Jen, ASAP. The morning after I was discharged, we were in Jen’s office. From that moment on, my passion for lactation was reignited.

As an intern at Syracuse Lactation, I strive to support families in whatever their feeding goals may be, approaching each parent-baby dyad in an unbiased manner. 

Thank you for the opportunity to learn alongside you!