Hi, my name is Ruth Berkowitz and I am a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor
and an IBCLC.  This is my first response to LACTNET after reading the
archives for a long time and then finally joining.  So this is my soapbox:
IMHO we should all be supporting each other in getting information out to
women about the benefits of breastfeeding.  Hospitals can be good.  Maternal
& Child Health Centres (in Australia), WICs, and other types of clinics can
also good.  And so can the volunteer groups like LLLI and NMAA.  We all have
something to offer the pregnant woman and the mother.  Wouldn't it be better
to share and work together than get too possesive?  However, we do all have
to watch our wording--especially in widely published pamphlets, news
broadcasts, etc.

I have an acquiantance who is a midwife and has done a great deal of work
with breastfeeding.  She is very possessive of her qualifications which is
fair enough.  Unfortunately, she can't always understand that I do have a
great deal of information and `hands on' experience.  I will spend the time
with mums in their homes or in mine.  However, I will refer mothers to
health professionals if that is needed.  In return, it can be very useful
for mothers to have a contact in the local community where they can meet
other mothers who are breastfeeding.  Why not support and promote all
sectors of the health community that will help mothers learn to breastfeed?

Thanks for `listening' to my .02 worth.

Ruth Berkowitz, Nursing Mothers' Assoc. of Australia Breastfeeding Counsellor
and IBCLC