It seems to me that, the issue of recognition of eating disorders is one
that needs to be addressed in the LC population, along with appropriate
referral resources for when we see that a client is likely to have one.

I see this as a real opportunity for collaboration among LCs and other
members of the health care team.

If a woman tells you that she isn't going to breastfeed because she is
going on a liquid diet, the issue at hand is much more serious than whether
a liquid diet can support breastfeeding. Women with eating disorders are at
very high risk for post-partum depression and even psychosis related to
distorted body image.

I believe this will be an up and coming issue for all maternity health care
providers. The reason I was at the Eating Disorders workshop in the first
place was that the State of Ohio STRONGLY recommended it at our last
hospital review. These were the same reviewers who insisted on MD education
related to circumcision anesthesia.... so they are on the ball and up to
date with current issues!

My suggestion is that it is time for us to address this as a profession....
with education at ILCA and in our LC prep courses. Within the next few
years we should be seeing questions related to this subject on our exam.
After all, we are in key positions to recognize what may not be apparent to
the OB or RN staff.

Susan Keith-Hergert RN, MS, CPN, IBCLC
Mercy Health Partners
Cincinnati

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