This discussion about test weights continues to be interesting. I still 
feel this is a valuable tool (when used judiciously) in our culture where 
a large percentage of our pediatricians do not trust breastfeeding and/or 
are grossly mis-informed. This lack of knowledge is then often transferred 
over to the mothers and there goes Mom's self-confidence.

I know that in the hospital setting, I have found test weighing to be an 
extremely valuable tool in proving something to the pediatricians. When 
they can see a milk transfer, they back off a bit. They begin to trust the 
process a bit more. When I don't see milk transfer (in concert with other 
red flags)it alerts me to have to take things a bit further.

I am fortunate enough to follow many mothers in the community and I will 
do anything it takes (including test weights in the hospital) to buy the 
mothers some time while breastfeeding is getting established.

This doesn't have to be all about fat content of milk and all we have 
discussed. I am just talking about using this valuable tool to give Mom 
that extra reassurance that things are going in the right direction while 
she and the baby adjust to life and breastfeeding. I know I have seen a 
couple of our more doubting pediatricians become far less anxious when 
they can "see" a milk transfer.

Betsy Riedel RNC, IBCLC
Connecticut

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