Breastfeeding Medicine in Knoxville, TN

Mother breastfeeding infant, emphasizing the nurturing bond and connection in breastfeeding medicine context.

Care For You and Your baby

The Way It Should Be

The weeks after birth are beautiful and overwhelming. Between sleepless nights, physical recovery, and learning to feed and soothe your baby, the last thing you should have to fight is the healthcare system.

And breastfeeding care is rarely simple. Concerns about milk supply, latch and positioning, nipple pain, mastitis, pumping, tongue-tie, or feeding older infants often send families searching for answers, bouncing between a pediatrician, OB-GYN, lactation consultant, dentist, or therapist, each focused on only part of the picture. It’s confusing to know who to see, when, and why and even harder to get coordinated, evidence-based answers.

At FLOW:

We bring comprehensive breastfeeding medicine and lactation care under one roof

Combining medical expertise with compassionate, personalized support

Whether you’re navigating the first days postpartum or seeking help months into your breastfeeding journey

We provide expert guidance for every stage of lactation so your family can thrive

Discover Breastfeeding Medicine

Comprehensive Breastfeeding Medicine & Lactation Care

Have a question or need support? Reach out with any questions about our services, scheduling, or support.

About the Founder

Meet Dr. Eriksen

Dr. Sarah Beth Eriksen is board-certified in both pediatrics and breastfeeding medicine. Her own feeding challenges as a new mom sparked a decade-long mission to provide the kind of expert, compassionate support she wished she’d had.

With FLOW, she’s creating a place where every family is heard, every question is answered, and no one has to navigate breastfeeding alone.

Meet the Founder 

Dr. Sarah Beth Eriksen, founder of Flow Breastfeeding Medicine, smiling in a white lab coat, embodying compassion and expertise in pediatric care and lactation support.

Why Families Choose Us

The FLOW Difference

We believe healthcare should be clear, personal, and family-centered. That’s why we’ve chosen a model that gives you more time, transparent pricing, and direct access to your physician. You will not feel like "just" a patient. You and your family are our priority.  

Quick Comparison Table

Traditional Insurance Model

10–15 minute rushed visits

Phone trees & nurse lines

Surprise bills & complex coding

Fragmented, reactive care

Direct Specialty Care at FLOW

45-60 minute unrushed visits

Direct access to your physician

Transparent pricing

Personalized, whole-family care

Direct Specialty Care puts families back at the center of healthcare.
Simple, transparent, and built around you

See Our Pricing

Evidance-Based, Family-Centered Care

Walking Beside You

Your breastfeeding journey doesn't have to be a struggle. Here are common concerns we help to address.  

Baby Concerns

Newborn weight loss

Jaundice

Latch difficulties

Slow weight gain / poor growth

Tongue tie

Food protein intolerance

Oral function & sucking concerns

Jaundice & feeding management

Reflux-like feeding symptoms

Transition to bottle or combo feeding

Mother's Concerns

Nipple pain

Nipple injury

Breast pain

Low Milk Supply

Oversupply

Dysphoric milk ejection

Induction of lactation

Nipple injury

Breast inflammation (often called “plugged ducts”)

Mastitis & recurrent breast infections

Return-to-work support

Suppression of lactation

Breastfeeding during surgery

Breastfeeding with complex medical conditions

Weaning guidance

Clear, evidence-based care for mothers and babies with simple, up-front pricing

Make Appointment

Trusted by Parents

What Families Are Saying

Let’s be real… postpartum emotions can be intense and any little feeding or health thing can feel like it’s enough to push you overboard! That’s where we were the day we were released from the hospital with our third baby. She had enough wet diapers to be discharged. That day, we had our newborn check at our pediatrician office where everything looked good…. A few hours later we were heading into the weekend with a dehydrated newborn who had not peed in over 8 hours. I called our on call doc and he recommended we give her another hour and if things had not changed to take her to the ER (during RSV season).

I texted Dr. Eriksen for a second opinion. She gave me a call and calmly instructed us on what to do for our baby… she was caring and compassionate, as she knows the postpartum struggles, but she was direct and helpful. After following her recommendations, our baby was hydrated and pooping and peeing within the hour! She kept us out of the ER with our three day old and even went above and beyond by texting to check in on us throughout the weekend!
Hillary
Dr. Eriksen is an amazing resource for all things baby! I’ve connected with her virtually from Nashville for questions about everything from sounds baby was making, introducing formula after a pumping journey, and more. She is so knowledgeable and caring without any judgment. I would highly recommend her!
Haley
Dr. Eriksen was a lifeline during my breastfeeding journey. She helped me understand my delayed supply, guided me with expert compassionate care and supported me in choosing a supplemental formula I felt proud to give my babies. Because of her, I felt empowered instead of overwhelmed.
Megan
I am so grateful to have had a breastfeeding medicine provider who was also my daughter’s pediatrician, guiding us with both expertise and compassion. She helped us learn how to latch, build a healthy feeding routine to support my milk supply, and navigate weight gain concerns without pressure to use formula. Her support made all the difference in our breastfeeding journey and gave me confidence as a first-time breastfeeding mom.
Elisabeth
I’ve faced so many barriers in getting support for breastfeeding-related health issues. When I was diagnosed with an abscess by an IBCLC, local OBs refused to see me, claiming it was “out of their scope.” Later, when I developed symptoms of mastitis, I panicked—again, OBs would not see me past six weeks postpartum.

Thank the Lord for Dr. Sarah Beth Ericksen. She advocated for my care, made herself available, and quickly diagnosed and treated my mastitis. Within 24 hours, my symptoms were gone, and I could resume feeding and bonding with my baby without pain.

All mamas deserve this level of compassionate, timely care. Thank you, Dr. Sarah Beth, for bringing it to Knoxville!
Virginia
Dr. Eriksen was such a gift to me because she looked me in the eyes, listened to me and offered me hope in a time of deep distress when I couldn't feed my newborn
Bailey

Frequently Asked Questions

Mother breastfeeding newborn, emphasizing nurturing bond and support for effective feeding.

Still have questions? Feel free to reach out. We are happy to help!

Do you take insurance?

No. Flow Breastfeeding operates on a Direct Specialty Care model. That means we don’t bill insurance. Instead, you pay a clear, up-front fee at the time of service. Some families choose to submit a superbill to their insurance for possible out-of-network reimbursement.

Why should I see a breastfeeding medicine physician instead of a lactation consultant?

Lactation consultants provide wonderful support, but they cannot diagnose medical problems or prescribe treatments. As a physician board-certified in pediatrics and breastfeeding medicine, Dr. Eriksen can address both baby and maternal health — from tongue ties and weight concerns to mastitis and breast pain.

What should I expect at my first visit?

Your first visit is 90 minutes, unrushed, and focused on both you and your baby. We’ll review feeding history, perform a full assessment, observe a feeding, and create a personalized plan. You’ll leave with clear next steps and support resources.

Can my partner come to the visit?

Absolutely! Partners are encouraged to attend — we care for the whole family, and support at home is key to breastfeeding success.

Do you offer virtual visits?

Yes. Telehealth visits are available for follow-up support, pumping guidance, and many maternal breast concerns.

What ages do you see?

We support families from birth through weaning. That includes newborns, older infants, and mothers at every stage of their breastfeeding journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I schedule an appointment for lactation care?

Scheduling an appointment for lactation care is simple. You can easily book your session by visiting our website and using the online appointment scheduler, or by calling our office directly for assistance.

What services does Flow Breastfeeding offer for breastfeeding support?

Flow Breastfeeding offers comprehensive breastfeeding support services, including physician-led lactation consultations, evidence-based guidance for overcoming breastfeeding challenges, and educational resources tailored for mothers and their babies.

What challenges can a lactation consultant help with?

Lactation consultants can help with various breastfeeding challenges, including latch issues, low milk supply, pain during breastfeeding, and concerns about infant weight gain. They provide personalized support to ensure a successful breastfeeding experience for both mother and baby.

How does Flow Breastfeeding approach breastfeeding medicine?

Flow Breastfeeding approaches breastfeeding medicine through evidence-based practices led by experienced physicians, offering personalized lactation consultations and comprehensive support to address the unique challenges faced by mothers and babies.

What qualifications does the founder of Flow Breastfeeding have?

The qualifications of the founder of Flow Breastfeeding include advanced medical training in breastfeeding medicine, extensive experience in lactation consulting, and a commitment to evidence-based practices that support mothers and babies through their breastfeeding journeys.

What are the benefits of lactation consultations?

The benefits of lactation consultations include personalized support for breastfeeding challenges, expert guidance on techniques and positioning, improved breastfeeding success rates, and enhanced maternal and infant health outcomes, all tailored to meet the unique needs of each family.

How can I prepare for my appointment?

Preparing for your appointment involves gathering relevant medical records, jotting down any breastfeeding concerns or questions, and ensuring you have a comfortable environment for your consultation.

What should I expect during a lactation consultation?

During a lactation consultation, you can expect a personalized assessment of your breastfeeding challenges, guidance on proper techniques, and tailored support from a lactation specialist to enhance your breastfeeding experience and address any concerns.

How does Flow Breastfeeding support new mothers?

Flow Breastfeeding supports new mothers by offering physician-led, evidence-based lactation care, personalized consultations, and educational resources to address breastfeeding challenges effectively and empower families in their breastfeeding journey.

What educational resources are available for breastfeeding?

Educational resources available for breastfeeding include comprehensive guides, online courses, webinars, and support groups that cover topics like breastfeeding techniques, nutrition, and overcoming challenges. Flow Breastfeeding also offers personalized consultations and educational materials to empower families.

Can lactation consultants assist with pumping issues?

Lactation consultants can assist with pumping issues by providing guidance on proper techniques, troubleshooting equipment, and developing effective pumping schedules tailored to individual needs. Their expertise helps ensure successful milk expression and supports breastfeeding goals.

What is the process for scheduling an appointment?

The process for scheduling an appointment is straightforward: simply visit our website, select your desired service, and fill out the appointment request form. Our team will then reach out to confirm your appointment details.

How can I contact Flow Breastfeeding for support?

You can contact Flow Breastfeeding for support by calling our office directly or by filling out the contact form on our website. Our team is ready to assist you with any breastfeeding concerns you may have.

What breastfeeding challenges do mothers commonly face?

Mothers commonly face several breastfeeding challenges, including difficulty latching, low milk supply, nipple pain, and concerns about their baby's weight gain. These issues can lead to frustration and may require professional support for effective resolution.

How does Flow Breastfeeding ensure evidence-based care?

Flow Breastfeeding ensures evidence-based care by utilizing the latest research and clinical guidelines in breastfeeding medicine, delivered by experienced physicians who specialize in lactation. This approach guarantees that families receive the most effective and scientifically supported support for their breastfeeding journey.

What is the founders experience in lactation medicine?

The founder's experience in lactation medicine includes extensive training and practice in breastfeeding support, combining clinical expertise with a passion for helping mothers and babies overcome breastfeeding challenges effectively.

Are there any costs associated with lactation services?

The costs associated with lactation services can vary depending on the specific services provided. We recommend checking with our office for detailed pricing and potential insurance coverage options.

How can partners support breastfeeding mothers?

Partners can support breastfeeding mothers by providing emotional encouragement, assisting with household tasks, and facilitating a comfortable environment for breastfeeding, which helps alleviate stress and allows the mother to focus on her nursing journey.

What techniques do lactation consultants recommend?

Lactation consultants recommend techniques such as proper latch positioning, paced bottle feeding, and frequency of breastfeeding to enhance milk supply and ensure effective feeding. These strategies help address common breastfeeding challenges and support successful lactation.

How long do lactation consultations typically last?

Lactation consultations typically last between 60 to 90 minutes. This duration allows for a comprehensive assessment of breastfeeding challenges and personalized support for both mother and baby.

What follow-up support is available after consultations?

Follow-up support available after consultations includes personalized care plans, access to additional resources, and ongoing communication with our lactation specialists to address any further challenges or questions you may have during your breastfeeding journey.

Can lactation consultants help with latch issues?

Lactation consultants can effectively assist with latch issues. They provide personalized support, guidance, and techniques to help mothers and babies achieve a comfortable and effective latch, ensuring a successful breastfeeding experience.

What is the role of a lactation consultant?

The role of a lactation consultant is to provide expert guidance and support to breastfeeding mothers, helping them overcome challenges, improve breastfeeding techniques, and ensure both mother and baby are healthy and thriving.

How can I find a lactation consultant near me?

Finding a lactation consultant near you is simple. You can search online directories, visit local healthcare facilities, or consult your pediatrician for recommendations to connect with qualified lactation professionals in your area.

What are the signs of breastfeeding difficulties?

The signs of breastfeeding difficulties include inadequate weight gain in the baby, persistent pain during nursing, difficulty latching, and frequent fussiness or crying during feedings. Recognizing these signs early can help ensure timely support and intervention.

How does Flow Breastfeeding tailor care for families?

Flow Breastfeeding tailors care for families by offering personalized, evidence-based lactation consultations that address each family's unique breastfeeding challenges and goals, ensuring comprehensive support throughout their breastfeeding journey.

What types of breastfeeding education does Flow provide?

Flow provides various types of breastfeeding education, including personalized lactation consultations, workshops on breastfeeding techniques, and resources on overcoming common challenges, all aimed at empowering mothers and promoting successful breastfeeding experiences.

How can I access online breastfeeding resources?

Accessing online breastfeeding resources is easy. You can visit our website for a variety of evidence-based articles, videos, and guides designed to support your breastfeeding journey.

What is the importance of breastfeeding support groups?

The importance of breastfeeding support groups lies in their ability to provide emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community for mothers facing breastfeeding challenges, helping to improve confidence and success in their breastfeeding journey.

How does Flow Breastfeeding handle complex cases?

Flow Breastfeeding handles complex cases by providing personalized, physician-led assessments and evidence-based interventions tailored to each family's unique needs, ensuring comprehensive support for both mothers and babies throughout their breastfeeding journey.

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For Every Breastfeeding Journey

The Way It Should Be

At FLOW:

Comprehensive Breastfeeding Medicine & Lactation Care

Meet Dr. Eriksen

The FLOW Difference

Quick Comparison Table

Traditional Insurance Model

Direct Specialty Care at FLOW

Walking Beside You

Baby Concerns

Mother's Concerns

What Families Are Saying

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you take insurance?

Why should I see a breastfeeding medicine physician instead of a lactation consultant?

What should I expect at my first visit?

Can my partner come to the visit?

Do you offer virtual visits?

What ages do you see?

For Every
Breastfeeding Journey