Ameda Resources for Breastfeeding - Questions, Issues and Advice

PROFESSIONALS:

Your first resource for breastfeeding issues/questions should be your own, or your infant's, primary care providers. By asking a few questions of your obstetrician/gynecologist, pediatrician, family practitioner, or certified nurse midwife, you can learn their opinions and involvement in breastfeeding. For instance:

• What percentage of his/her practice is breastfeeding?

• Has the medical practitioner been trained in breastfeeding evaluation and management?

• Does your medical professional have an LC (lactation consultant) on staff, or will they refer you to one?

If unable to offer support, they should refer you to a lactation specialist for help.

The International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA) can help you contact a professional certified lactation consultant anywhere in the world. Call ILCA at 919-787-5181 or visit their web site at www.ilca.org

OTHER BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT:

La Leche League International (LLLI) is a non-profit volunteer organization that provides encouragement, assistance, and educational materials to breastfeeding mothers. To locate a support group near you, call 1-800-LA LECHE or visit their web site at www.lalecheleague.org.

Doula is a term you may not be familiar with. It refers to a lay person trained to offer childbirth education, labor support, and assistance with breastfeeding after delivery. You can reach them at 801-756-7331 or visit their web site at www.dona.com.

Don't overlook the valuable support and advice of friends and family members, especially if they've successfully breastfed their own children. It's also important to enlist the support of your partner. Research shows that a father's attitude toward breastfeeding has a big impact on whether or not baby is breastfed and for what length of time.

Are you using a Baby-Friendly hospital? UNICEF established this worldwide initiative to recognize hospitals and birthing centers that promote, protect, and support breastfeeding. The number of Baby-Friendly hospitals in the United States is low, but increasing.

Breastfeeding books and periodicals are available at your local library, bookstore, and support organizations. They offer a great deal of guidance and encouragement.