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 Only
an IBCLC has completed the rigorous training and passed the exam
given by the International Board of Lactation Examiner. This exam
is given once a year and candidates must have completed all the
requirements to be eligible to write the exam. The IBCLC must
also be recertified every 5 years to maintain current status.
Lactation consultants are trained in maternal and infant anatomy,
physiology, pathology, and biochemistry, as well as technology
related to breastfeeding and clinical management of breastfeeding.
Lactation consultants work in a variety of settings, including
hospitals, clinics, physicians’ offices and private practice.
During
consultation, the lactation consultant gathers information, which
may include a medical history of the mother and baby, a breastfeeding
history, and an observation of the baby nursing. This information
will be used to formulate a plan of action to help the mother.
Depending on the situation, the lactation consultant may also
communicate with the primary healthcare provider or make referrals
to other health professionals, community services, and support
groups.
Contact
a lactation consultant to help you succeed in your breastfeeding
experience.
Reasons
to consult an IBCLC
Prevention
is always key!! Some patients like to consult a lactation consultant
before the baby is born to make sure they understand the basics
of breastfeeding. This is also a quiet time to address any questions
the mother may have regarding breastfeeding.
Some
situations that may require the use of a lactation consultant:
-
difficulties
latching on; baby is refusing the breast
-
painful
breastfeeding; sore, cracked nipples
-
inverted
or flat nipples
-
engorgement
-
blocked
ducts or mastitis, yeast or thrush
-
over
supply or under supply
-
slow
weight gain
-
breast
reduction
-
premature
baby
-
multiple
birth
-
mother
infant separation; back to work or hospitalization
-
advice
on pumps for rental or purchase
-
questions
about medications
-
adoption
Remember,
even if you did not succeed in breastfeeding the first time around,
a lactation consultant can help you this time. If you are
tired or feeling discouraged with breastfeeding, call a
lactation consultant now!
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Chiropractic
and breastfeeding
When
babies are not well positioned in the womb or the delivery has
been difficult, breastfeeding can be negatively affected. A chiropractor
will be able to identify the areas of your baby’s spine which
are impeding effective sucking. By performing very gentle adjustments,
your baby will be able to revert to breastfeeding without creating
any pain for you. If your baby is clamping onto or biting the
breast, refusing to nurse on one side, taking the breast “cross
cradle” on one side and only “football” on the other, he or she
is showing signs that the neck and jaw are not working properly.
During the examination, I will be able to identify exactly what
is causing the problems. My experience as a lactation consultant
allows me to understand the mechanics of nursing and to locate
more effectively the baby’s chiropractic problems.
Together,
a lactation consultant and a chiropractic doctor make a winning
health team!
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Services
available
Individual
consultations are available by appointment either in a clinical
setting or privately in your home. Please call 514-244-0100 for
more information.
I
also offer prenatal services to help you prepare to breastfeed.
Parents who seek help before the baby arrives usually get off
to a good start and avoid stressful situations. During the visit,
we will discuss how milk is produced, how to recognize whether
baby is getting enough, and how to know if you have a good latch.
If
you are experiencing difficulties while breastfeeding, we will
review the cause of pain or discomfort. I will help you obtain
a correct latch by showing you proper positioning for baby and
mother, and make sure you understand the breastfeeding relationship.
Additional
services include helping mother in special circumstances such
as adoptive nursing, slow weight gain, premature birth or multiple
births. I can also help you customize a personal plan for
your return to work that will still allow you to keep your breastfeeding
relationship.
I
am also available for lectures and presentations. Please contact
me for more information.
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