Linda -

I didn't read this as a rant - you make some very valid points, and your
concern for the well-being of the mothers we serve is evident.  I think
another component of this whole issue is the myth that seems pretty popular
around here: one cannot nurse a baby without a pump.  This is promoted in
some of the childbirth/breastfeeding classes at the hospitals.  Thus most
moms get a pump before their baby is born - even the most service-oriented
LC can't anticipate all the reasons a mom might need a pump once the baby
comes.  And, as you point out, they often get these "prenatal" pumps off the
internet, where there is no hands-on service.

I do refer to a local pump rental station, despite some philosophical
differences with their practice - the issue for me is more that I get people
who didn't go there are are using one of those weed-wacker pumps from the
big toy store to cover for 8 hour separations, or that they did get a good
one without the service and are using it incorrectly.

Morgan

On 1/20/03 12:03 AM, "Automatic digest processor"
<[log in to unmask]> wrote:

> Morgan, if you have a full-service lactation clinic in town, encourage your
> clients to get pumps there and do not refer to the discount places.  Believe
> me, the full service places would be happy to have you be a second set of
> eyes and ears to make sure the equipment works properly and, in general,
> would be happy to teach you how to evaluate the equipment as well.
>
> Linda Pohl, IBCLC
> www.eBESTFed.com
> hesitantly hitting send from Phoenix AZ

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