Jennifer,
This is a fine line you have to walk. I struggle often with being the pt
advocate and trying hard not to alienate any staff and physicians. I
always want to stay in everyone's good graces, if possible, as I feel I
make slow baby steps in progress with them and get referrals from the
docs.
As to the herb question, I approach it thus: "Many mothers find herbs to
be helpful etc etc. I have some articles and handouts for you to share
with your doctor about this. Find out if there is any reason why you
shouldn't be taking these. These articles do not give any
contraindications etc etc." Then I leave it to her to share with her doc
or decide on her own (I can't help it if she just goes out and buys the
herbs) to take it anyway.  I do the same, btw, with yeast/thrush. I give
lots of articles, handouts including the options for OTC treatment like
lotrimin AF (sorry don't have the generic) and GV. I can't be
responsible if the mom just goes home and gets and uses the GV. I
advised her to check with her doc. So far, so good with this approach.
BTW, I also suggest ibuprofen if engorgement is a real problem, along
with the cold therapy, but I always say something like "as long as the
dr says you can take it" or "as long as their is no reason why you
shouldn't be on this." In my report to the dr, in my recommendations, I
state e.g. #1 pump with xxx Q3H, #2 check with dr re herbs and/or
metoclopramide (see articles) etc, etc. So the dr sees that I gave a
suggestion and readings to be discussed with her own or baby's dr. Hope
this helps
Laurie

Laurie Wheeler, RN, MN, IBCLC
Hosp LC
Louisiana Breastfeeding MediaWatch Campaign
Violet Louisiana, USA
mailto:[log in to unmask]


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