Heidi Thomson is a registered nurse and Lactation Consultant. Over her nursing career, Heidi has developed a passion for supporting patients and families in what can be their most challenging times. With this in mind, she has aimed to create a career that builds upon what she has learnt working with cancer patients and their families, and now working closely with parents and their newborns. She feels that her skill set, specialist knowledge and compassion enables her to provide this care at a high standard. 

Heidi is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and has also completed her Post Graduate Certificate in Child and Family Health. She endeavours to combine the skills and knowledge she has learnt from her acute nursing practice with the specialist skills and knowledge she has received through her postgraduate and lactation studies.

What led you to a career as a Nurse and Lactation Consultant? 

Since my early teens I knew I wanted to be a nurse. Whenever I found myself in a situation where someone was sick or injured, I wasn’t happy until I knew what to do. Working in a tertiary neonatal unit has enabled me to pursue my passion for helping families navigate the newborn journey. This has then led me to become a Lactation Consultant as I knew I wanted to help mothers establish beautiful breastfeeding relationships with their babies.

What is the most rewarding thing about being a Nurse and Lactation Consultant?

Being there for women in the best and worst moments is extremely rewarding and I feel honoured that families allow me to be a part of that. Nothing makes me happier than seeing women and families overcome obstacles to have a successful and enjoyable breastfeeding journey. When I am working as a nurse in the NICU, the moments where I am able to facilitate a first cuddle or share in the joy of the babies medical miracles, are extremely rewarding and humbling.

What attracted you to be part of Western Obstetrics?

What I love most about Western Obstetrics is their dedication to providing thorough and holistic care to mothers and their families. Their continuity of care model is so effective in ensuring women feel well supported and empowered. I knew I wanted to be a part of such a caring group of people.