Years ago La Leche League Leaders and LLL mothers were basically the only people who thought breastfeeding was the best food for newborns, babies, and (gasp) toddlers. That was in the mid 50's. The average nurse or dr knew extremely little about breastfeeding at this time.


In 1985 a new profession was born as many experienced LLL Leaders and others took the first IBCLC exam. This step forward had been suggested by LLLI. These people knew lots more about breastfeeding than the average leader/nurse/doctor.

In 1993 a group of doctors, many of whom were IBCLC said it was time for medicine to get on board the breastfeeding bandwagon and formed the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine.

Each group has had it's own requirements (LLLL are moms, ABM members are doctors), with IBCLC being the most liberal and inclusive group (if you can pass the exam you can call yourself an IBCLC!)

Each group has so much to offer the others. Collaboration is the keyword. Being elitist doesn't help BF move forward. Inclusive is a much better word.. Pat in SNJ

             ***********************************************

Archives: http://community.lsoft.com/archives/LACTNET.html
To reach list owners: [log in to unmask]
Mail all list management commands to: [log in to unmask]
COMMANDS:
1. To temporarily stop your subscription write in the body of an email: set lactnet nomail
2. To start it again: set lactnet mail
3. To unsubscribe: unsubscribe lactnet
4. To get a comprehensive list of rules and directions: get lactnet welcome