Thanks to all who have contributed to this discussion.  I have enjoyed
hearing the variety of ways many of you have chosen to work out the roles
of being an LLLL and an LC in your daily lives.

I was disturbed to hear from some that they felt resented by local LLLLs
for having "turned traitor" or for daring to accept fees for service.  On
the one hand, some may not appreciate the very real expense of obtaining
and maintaining IBCLC credentials.  After spending so many hours and
dollars on accreditation, an LC would naturally hope to see some return
on his/her investment.

On the other hand, I suspect some people are just generally wary of what
could be perceived as an undue medicalization of breastfeeding and
breastfeeding support.  Although I myself am interested in the
possibility of becoming an LC some years in the future (I like the
subject, the goal of mother and baby advocacy in the face of an
unfriendly medical establishment, and the idea of having a home-based
business), I am sometimes uncomfortable with the idea that only those
with "credentials" are qualified to give breastfeeding advice.

For example, one recent post (sorry, I lost the name of the poster)
described a new father noticing the LC's IBCLC certificate, and telling
his weeping wife "I think we came to the right place, honey."  How
heart-warming to be able to offer such reassurance to troubled new
parents--and how sad that they are only reassured by a certificate
suitable for framing.  The LC went on to describe how the baby was
sucking well within 2 minutes "with minimal assistance."  Surely this was
a situation where IBCLC credentials were not essential to solve the
problem.  And yet, in the absence of finding an IBCLC, those parents
might have thought their case hopeless, and weaned their baby prematurely.

I know that my fellow Lactnetters would NOT agree that credentials are
essential to solving many problems, but I worry about a general public that
increasingly believes in the cult of the expert, and discounts all else.
Advocates of midwifery, homeschooling, etc. are still fighting battles to
prove that a college degree and a certifying exam are not needed to
deliver babies, educate children...

Just some thoughts (sorry if I've rambled too long).  Any feedback would
be appreciated.


Penny Piercy, LLLL, MOM (Patrick 2 1/2) from Bloomington, IN