Jennifer,
I think that a non IBCLC doula should know at least
the 18 hours that is required for staff of the baby
friendly hospital initiative. In a condensed form
this would include but not be limited to:
1. Health benefits to mom, baby, and society.
2. Postiion and assessment of the infant at breast
(alignment, areolar grasp, areolar compression, and
audible swallows - the 4 A's).
3. Length of time at breast for each feeding (none,
but make sure there is milk transfer) and frequency as
supported by the AAP (at least 8-12 times in a 24 hour
period).
4. Intake and output (what goes in must come out in
the form of poops- between 2-5 the size of the babies
fist in 24 hours, or the cumulation of this amount in
24 hours).
5. How to maintain lactation if separated (manual
expression)/ lactation support groups/ community
resources for help with breastfeeding support and/or
problems(LLL, IBCLC).
I think that ALL mothers/families should have this
information and I think a doula should teach all of
these things to each of her couplets. Anything less
would be a cheating the new family. How can one
mother the mother without knowing breastfeeding? The
mother support is only 1/2 completed at birth. This
is one area there can be no skimping for educating of
the person providing the service. I have been
impressed with most doula's I have been in contact
with because of their support for breastfeeding. I am
usually shocked at the 2 I have met in 22 years of
nursing that really gave minimal support at best.
Good luck on your poll!
Theresa Johnson RN IBCLC
Heidelberg Germany
--- "Linda Pohl, IBCLC" <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
> Jennifer Davis asks: What should a (non-IBCLC)
> doula know about
> breastfeeding?
>
> These would be my top ideas:
>
> 1. Babies should go to breast as often as they show
> feeding cues but at
> least 4 - 5 times every 12 hours for the first few
> days.
> 2. Babies get thirsty as well as hungry, it is ok
> for babies to drink often
> but they should come up for air and sleep too.
> 3. What goes in comes out.
> 4. How much should be coming out.
> 5. While minimal discomfort is within normal limits,
> if it hurts, it is
> wrong. No matter how good it looks, mom needs help
> from a professional.
> 6. If the doula cannot help in a VERY short period
> of time (a couple of
> feedings, maximum) refer mom on before mom is too
> overwhelmed to accept
> help.
> 7. If mom is worried, she is probably right.
> 8. Who are the IBCLCs in your area who can help.
>
> Linda Pohl, IBCLC
> Phoenix AZ
>
>
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