As lactation professionals staying up to date with current evidence, it has been known for a while that we see a connection between breastfeeding and a lower risk of infant death. A newer study published in August 2023 has affirmed breastfeeding linked to less infant death in the US. As certified breastfeeding counselors, we know […]
Can You Be a Breastfeeding Counselor As a New Mom?
At the International Breastfeeding Institute, it is not uncommon for us to see new moms registering to become a Certified Breastfeeding Counselor (CBC). It is often our own breastfeeding experiences which lead us to pursue becoming a lactation professional. Can you become a breastfeeding counselor as a new mom? Absolutely. While there are some challenges, […]
Supporting Breastfeeding Parents As They Introduce Solids
As a lactation professional, you support families through all stages of lactation. From prenatal advice, as they introduce solids, and even through fully weaning from breastfeeding, you can support all stages. While you are not an IBCLC, registered nutritionist, nor pediatrician, it is within your scope to provide education and support surrounding the introduction of […]
Supporting an Exclusively Pumping Parent
As lactation professionals, our support extends beyond basic initiation and latching support. There are times we will support an exclusively pumping parent. While some cases of exclusively pumping will extend beyond our scope of practice as a certified breastfeeding counselor (CBE), there are many situations where we can be the support provider. Exclusively pumping has […]
Breastfeeding Pressure – How to Support Clients Without Adding Pressure
In a time where we aim to improve breastfeeding outcomes, many facilities, providers, etc., have policies and procedures around feeding. While we know improving breastfeeding rates is an important public health issue, some new parents feel significant breastfeeding pressure. As a lactation professional, it is important to provide evidenced based information and support. However, there […]
World Breastfeeding Week: Nurturing Connections and Providing Support
From August 1st to 7th, the world celebrates a week of meaning and purpose: World Breastfeeding Week (WBW). This annual observance highlights the vital role that breastfeeding plays in the health and development of infants and emphasizes the importance of supporting breastfeeding individuals. It also brings attention to the significant role of well-trained breastfeeding counselors. […]