You know I have to pipe in here.... my site sells some of the "stuff"  that
you guys are referring to, and as a nursing mom I appreciated it when I
found a business with a knowledgeable LC that had this "stuff" available to
me so I didn't have to run all over town.  I never pressure my clients to
buy, in fact when I see someone (I have a clinic in my home) I don't even
talk about the "stuff"  we talk about their bfing concerns.  If it's a new
mom we discuss the need for a good bra and I tell them what I recommend but
tell them that they are under NO obligation to buy from me and I tell them
that they may want to look at kmart or target if they are worried about
cost.  My books sell cheaper than at local book stores, but I also have a
library, if someone is a client of mine they are welcome to check a book out
from my library instead of buying, or to read before they buy.  I think this
also makes it a no pressure appt.  And I sell cloth diapers, and some cloth
menstrual products... those things hit a specific market and I do more of
that type of business on the web than in person.

I think it is a very fine line that we have to watch daily when it comes to
advocating certain products, we have to keep in mind the end result.  If a
mom asks me "do I need a nursing shirt in order to nurse?"  I always tell
them NO!  But in the same breathe I will say that they may want to think
about one down the road, it makes public nursing easier for some women.
Again, I would tell them that there are plenty of sewing patterns on the
market and many companies that sell these things and that they should shop
around... I cite Walmart and their nursing section, however small it is!

I think we would all agree with we didn't become lactation educators to get
rich!  I never expect to send a mom home with more than advice when she
comes to see me or when I go on a home visit, that is why I became a
counselor, to help, not to sell.  Selling is a side thought.

Melisa
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Did you hear? Breast is Best!
Certified Lactation Counselor
IBCLC Exam Candidate
Homeopathic Counselor in training
www.nurturingmama.com

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