I agree with Kathleen A.  It behooves us all to constantly look at our
practices to evaluate effectiveness.  I just finished teaching the UCLA
Lactation Educator class in Los Angeles.  During my introduction ,  I stated
that many of the techniques and trueisms I learned about breastfeeding
 thirteen years ago have changed.  For instance,  assisting attachment on the
breast,  length of feeds,  frequency of feeds,  and use of nipple shields.
 We must always try to review the literature and to question how we approach
the maternal/child dyad.  I also mention that many of the lecturers will
differ in their approach to breastfeeding.  I encourage them to listen and
then to question.  If they don't agree,   go back to the literature  look for
articles that support their own approach and then evaluate the effectiveness
when working with their clients.   Some  of what we learn and teach in
breastfeeding is not research based.  We must be cautious about quoting
practices as though they are the gospel.
If we can keep an open mind,  the profession of Lactation Specialty can only
improve.

Off my soap box for now.


Andrea Herron R.N., M.N.