Where I practice the newborn weight loss at discharge is nearly universal
,as are many birth interventions. We definitely need to fix birth and that
will go a long way to improving breastfeeding. This is also why I believe it
is imperative for an IBCLC to routinely see all newborns at the first well
child check in the pediatric setting. This is why we need IBCLCs in all
pediatric settings, not just in the OB or NICU. After discharge is when the
problems arise. Carefully assessing the history of pregnancy, delivery,
mother’s health, neonatal problems and feeding will allow the IBCLC to give
the mother a good plan to make certain the baby gains weight. There is no
other provider on the health care team whose care encompasses every one of
these factors relative to infant feeding. I have worked in the same
pediatric practice for about 1 ½ years now and I get to follow my own
patients throughout their entire course of breastfeeding. I see almost all
breastfeeding newborns on day 3-5 of life. It has made my work, and the
mother’s experience, much easier because the small problems are prevented
and the big problems are managed early. This is why the USLCA is working
diligently on licensure and reimbursement for US lactation consultants. We
need to be part of the health care team and be easily accessible for the
sake of all the mothers and the babies!!! 

 

Judith L. Gutowski, BA, IBCLC

USLCA Licensure and Reimbursement Chair

Hannastown, PA


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