Getting to know me
Dr. Karen Garcia, DO, FAAP, C-NABBLM, FAOBP, IBCLC
Pediatrician and Lactation Consultant
I have always had a passion for teaching, but over the years have become a dedicated breastfeeding advocate. As I became a breastfeeding mother myself, while working as a community pediatrician, I was humbled by the time, dedication and continued learning needed to successfully provide for my own children. I also noted the significant gap in knowledge and understanding of breastfeeding in both the public and health communities. There is both public and professional misunderstandings on the importance of breastfeeding. This is a major public health issue that I continue to champion for.
I am also a speaker in our local communities. I have had the honor of discussing teen health, infant mortality, breastfeeding inequities, maternal/pregnancy inequities, STDs, immunizations and Language barriers in the medical system.

García Consulting and Lactation Services’ Mission
García Consulting and Lactation Services was opened in 2023 to provide specialized care for more complex lactation related issues. Dr. García has been practicing pediatrics and newborn care in the Kalamazoo and Calhoun counties since 2012. Dr. García is hoping to support all of our communities that struggle with breastfeeding, and those communities with limited access to breastfeeding resources. Dr. García is collaborating with Milk Like Mine/Bellies Like Mine to further reach our Black, Brown and LBGTIA+ communities in Calhoun County.
Dr. García is Board Certified in Pediatrics through the American Board of Pediatrics and American Osteopathic Board of Pediatrics. She is also one of the first physicians Board-Certified by the North American Board of Breastfeeding and Lactation Medicine. She maintains her Board-Certification as a Lactation Consultant by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners. She is an ongoing member of the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Osteopathic Association and Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine.
