| Although
not every breastfeeding mother and baby
necessarily require the help of an IBCLC,
it has been demonstrated that �breastfeeding
education and access to a lactation consultant
can be critical to the successful initiation
and continuation of breastfeeding .�
The only health care professionals specifically
trained as breastfeeding specialists are
International Board-Certified Lactation
Consultants (also called IBCLCs).
WHAT
IS AN IBCLC?
The
IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation
Consultant) is a health care provider trained
to focus on the needs and concerns of the
breastfeeding mother-baby unit and to prevent,
recognise and solve difficulties that may
arise during breastfeeding. She is a breastfeeding
and lactation specialist whose approach
is respectful of the unique needs and goals
of each family, and fosters parental autonomy
and growth.
The
Lactation Consultant has completed comprehensive
training and accumulated extensive clinical
experience to acquire and perfect skills
in breastfeeding management and counselling,
including problems and special situations.
This multidisciplinary training includes
knowledge of:
maternal
and infant anatomy, physiology, and endocrinology
growth
parameters and developmental milestones from preconception to
beyond twelve months
maternal
and infant nutrition, biochemistry, immunology, and infectious
diseases
maternal
and infant pathology, pharmacology, and toxicology
psychology,
sociology, and anthropology
reading
and interpretation of scientific research
ethical
and legal issues related to the practice of lactation consulting
technology
related to breastfeeding
public
health issues surrounding lactation
Mandatory
recertification every 5 years assures that
all IBCLCs keep their knowledge and skills
current and up-to-date.
The
IBCLC credential is the only internationally
recognised accreditation for lactation consultants.
What
situations require the help of an IBCLC?
•
Prenatal breastfeeding education and preparation
•
Difficulties with latching; baby refusing
the breast
•
Painful breastfeeding; sore, damaged or
cracked nipples
•
Severe engorgement
•
Blocked ducts, mastitis, yeast
•
Milk supply issues (over-supply, low supply)
•
Slow weight gain in baby
•
Special maternal circumstances (previous
breast surgery, hormonal disorders, etc.)
•
Special infant circumstances (cleft lip/palate,
hospitalised baby, reflux, etc.)
•
Breastfeeding premature babies/multiples
•
Mother-infant separation, going back to
work, etc.
•
Advice on renting or purchasing a breast
pump or other breastfeeding equipment
Note
that situations that contra-indicate or
require interruption of breastfeeding are
rare. With skilled help, the breastfeeding
relationship can be maintained for the mutual
benefit of mother and baby.
Stephanie
Dupras, IBCLC, RLC, Doula
is a private practise certified lactation
consultant, birth
doula and
childbirth educator, in addition to being
a mother of four and student midwife. Her
philosophy of care fosters respect, gentleness,
confidence and autonomy. She offers support
during pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum
in a climate of trust and confidentiality.
Her combined skills result in a unique approach
to helping new parents become informed,
empowered and confident in the choices they
make, ensuring the best possible start for
their new baby.
To
schedule a consultation in Montreal and its
surrounding areas, please call (450) 661-6629.
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