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From:
breastfeeding matters <[log in to unmask]>
Reply To:
Lactation Information and Discussion <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Wed, 31 Dec 2003 10:04:45 -0500
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Nancy asked:
> when giving advice to parents as a volunteer--where precisely
does the line between advice and medical advice fall ??  I am familiar with
the LLL concept of "mother-to-mother" advice--and frequently use that--ie
"when my first son had gained weight slowly (but, within the range of
"normal") and the grandmothers recommended cereal--this is what I tried
instead of adding solids before six months of age" .<

Actually, La Leche League Leaders do not give advice at all :)

LLL Leaders share information and help mothers decide what would work in their own particular circumstances. They encourage mothers to look at all the relevant facts, offer research-based suggestions and (when appropriate) provide references so that the information may be shared with the appropriate physicians.

But first they listen.

Showing empathy, listening attentively and asking open-ended questions elicits the information needed to clarify the situation. Very often, the *real* question or concern only comes after the mother feels comfortable in opening up and talking about her feelings, her fears and her concerns.

It is usually more helpful to use phrases like *some mothers have found...* than saying *this is what I did.* By using more generalized language we can avoid making the mother feel that she OUGHT to do something a particular way or risk our displeasure. When asked, Leaders strive to offer a number of ideas rather than suggesting that there is only one way to deal with a situation. Asking a mother *What do you think would work for you?* is often the most effective approach.

If you are interested in learning more, LLL's Communication Skills Courses are open both to Leaders and others, and are especially valuable to Lactation Consultants. Many of the counselling questions on the IBCLCE exam are based on this approach. Contact your local LLL Leader for more information:                                                               http://www.lalecheleague.org/WebIndex.html

You might also find this article to be of use:
What Do I Say after I Say, "Hello "?
http://www.lalecheleague.org/llleaderweb/LV/LVAugSep00p69.html

Norma Ritter, IBCLC
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