My dream as a young girl was to be a midwife. I trained in Scotland and achieved that dream in 1999. Since then I have had the privilege to work in many midwifery settings over the last 22 years, both in the UK and Australia. I have worked with low risk and high risk pregnancies, in hospitals and the community and love the journey of being “with women” through the most incredible transition from women to mum.

Midwife means “With Woman”. An integral part of midwifery is not only caring for women, but also their babies in the postnatal period. We are the first contact for men and women as they become “parents”. We educate, teach about the early days of parenting, support and build confidence. We also have a huge role in helping new mums achieve their breastfeeding journey.

My desire to support women in pregnancy and postnatally became stronger after I had my first son. My focus was on birth, I didn’t really think too much about breastfeeding – it happened naturally right?

My experience… A preterm baby who couldn’t attach well, cracked, bleeding nipples, low supply, a baby who didn’t put on weight, conflicting advice… and I quickly learned there is very little support out there for new mums! That’s when I became passionate in providing a service to new families in the community. As a mum who had a tough start to breast feeding, I understand how critical good support and continuity is to help families succeed in establishing breast feeding.

As an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) I have the skills and knowledge to provide the best care and advice to you and your baby through your feeding challenges. It is my passion to work with you to help you achieve realistic goals that work for your family and to achieve the best start on your journey together by facilitating the unique bond that is developed through breast feeding.

Hi, my name is Emiko. I was born in Japan but Australia has been my home for the last 20 years.

I am a Registered Nurse, Midwife and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). My university education and professional experience have been acquired here in Perth, Australia.

I have worked in Tertiary settings, in the community as part of the Visiting Midwifery Service, and in the Breastfeeding Centre of Western Australia, providing new mums with support to help them establish breastfeeding, and navigate common challenges that present in the first few weeks. I also have experience with complex feeding challenges, and am here to support you through any breastfeeding challenge you may encounter!

I commenced my studies when I was still breastfeeding and juggling the transition to being a mother. This was probably was the most challenging time of my life but equally very rewarding.

I worked as a nurse for five years before studying Midwifery, and subsequently Lactation Consultancy. It was through my own experiences of having children and breastfeeding that my interest in midwifery and lactation started to grow.

I am a wife and mother to our 3 girls and 2 boys all of whom I breastfed with some initial challenges. All my breastfeeding years add up to be over 10 years and like most parents, I do miss those special years. I also tandem fed my first two babies for 6 months. It is this experience that helps me day in day out to assist and empathise with women going through their breast feeding journey.

When I’m not learning more about breastfeeding, I love baking, learning new languages and watching my kids play sport.

Throughout my career, I’ve witnessed the profound impact that breastfeeding can have on families as well as the intense ups and downs this journey can have. 

Recognising a gap in education and information regarding breastfeeding- both for midwives and the families in our care, I was inspired to further my training and complete my IBCLC certification. This deepened my commitment to empowering families with the knowledge and support they need for a positive breastfeeding journey, however that may look for them.

I believe that education and preparation are key to overcoming challenges and fostering an empowering breastfeeding journey. I am dedicated to providing personalised guidance and resources, ensuring that each family feels confident and supported every step of the way.

When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my (still boisterous) 13 year old Husky- Stella, and our cat Pip. I enjoy spending time at home and growing my own veggies, which keeps me grounded and connected. I look forward to working with you and helping you achieve your breastfeeding goals!