"As long as we stand divided on this issue, which we are now, with many
routes to various "competencies," and as long as the credential of IBCLC is
not seen as the basic minimum with which to practice lactation
consultation, we will have a weakened and diluted "profession,"  with
reduced ability to provide a standard of good care, and we will have less
chance to be  recognized and taken seriously in the field of health care
providers. Ethics, information, practice skill, and oversight of all of the
above are crucial.  My opinion only."

I am in complete agreement with those of you who are advocating regulation of 
credentials.  Of course we all want women/families/the general public to get 
the most current and correct information and thus further the good reputation 
that lactation consultants (IBCLCs) deserve.

I am currently a volunteer, teaching classes at a military installation where 
there is no one to do this.  I also teach classes to RNs, LPNs and MDs as 
there is no one to do this for this particular hospital (or no one to 
coordinate for the resources).  I am not certified, in fact I don't even work 
in the health care field at all.  I am working toward my IBCLC but am several 
years away.  I work with new moms and field calls from mothers with 
questions/problems.  I stress to everyone that I am not qualified/certified 
etc. and that they need to seek help from an IBCLC but I will be glad to pass 
on references, information and things that I have learned from extensive 
reading, your exchanges on LACTNET and from breastfeeding my two children.  
I have a totally unrelated full time job and two small children. I am not 
doing this for money, I do this because I believe every woman and child 
deserves an informed and supported start to breastfeeding.  I am desperately 
trying to put together resources in the local area; lactation consultants 
(not many), WIC, LLL, supportive PEDS and OB MDs and RNs, other moms.  
I think that the shortage of IBCLCs leaves a void that some of us feel 
compelled to fill, even unqualified.  I am fully aware of the risk I take 
when giving information to mothers and if I feel I am over my head b/c of the 
situation I tell them that.  I hope that I never pass on bad information to 
women or discourage them from finding other help.  I applaud all the other 
women who are trying to "fill the gap" the best way they know how.  Those of 
you who are IBCLCs; we who are not but are working toward that goal would 
love mentorship and guidance and an experienced person to turn to in order to 
make sure we are on the right track.  I have asked several organizations who 
offer "certification" courses but they will only back those who have already 
attended their courses, which is understandable.
If anyone knows of any resources in the El Paso area, please contact me off 
net.  Thank you.
Sincerely,
Christie Pillado


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