Two Frustrated LCs Compare Breastfeeding Support Disparities in the UK vs. USA

“You wouldn't go to a dermatologist when you need to seek support from an oncologist, you wouldn't ask a gynaecologist for support if you really need to speak to a urologist. These are all specialists that have studied their area specifically and have a bank of knowledge so extensive in their area.”  -J'Nel Metherell, IBCLC

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This might sound like common sense to most of us, but for some reason, International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) are not getting the same treatment. In the US, we’re often finding pediatricians referring their patients to a cardiologist when there is a heart murmur, but instead of referring families to an IBCLC who can help with breastfeeding, they’re attempting to give their own advice. It is very possible that some of these physicians are well versed and knowledgeable in breastfeeding, some even obtain their IBCLC after medical school so they can add a level of support to their practice. However, most do not. Most of them are OUTSIDE of their area of expertise when attempting to give breastfeeding advice.

On our most recent podcast episode, we have TWO guest IBCLCs who work in two different countries and yet are both struggling with the problem mentioned above. We are so lucky to have J’Nel Metherell, IBCLC who will be joining us from Milton Keynes, England and our very own Allison Alexander, IBCLC based out of the USA. Both of our guests will be discussing what it’s like to work in private practice in their own countries and discuss some common disparities.

You’re not only going to learn WHY it’s so important for medical professionals to stick to what they specialize in and be able to recognize when to refer patients elsewhere, but also WHY IBCLCs are the experts in breastfeeding support. You might have heard about them, but have you ever wondered how much training actually goes into becoming one to make them so qualified? I’ll give you a small hint: I’m currently on a path to become one and it’s going to take me YEARS.

Disclaimer: Nobody is saying you shouldn't listen to your pediatrician or midwife or whoever. HOWEVER, we are saying you should seek support for breastfeeding from who is actually trained and specialized in lactation. Ahem, lactation consultants.

TAKE ME TO THE EPISODE!

If you’re interested in learning more about J’Nel Metherell and read her blog that inspired us to collaborate, you can go here: https://www.breastfeedinghelp.co.uk/post/when-shit-gets-real

Have you struggled with getting proper breastfeeding support? Let us know in the comments below.

Author

My name is Kaitlyn and I'm one of the team members at Successful Breastfeeding. Before I had my son, I signed up for the prenatal class and got SO MUCH HELP as a client. Then I fell in love with the community, saw all of the moms and babies Successful Breastfeeding was able to help,  and practically begged to work for them. Now I'm the keeper of the things, professional commiserater, AND working on becoming a certified lactation counselor. For real though, I love working for this company because I get to work from home, be with my son, AND help women with their breastfeeding journey. Get virtual breastfeeding support when you need it and your back to work support when it's time to go back. Your breastfeeding journey is the #1 priority here.