In> Date: Tue, 19 Dec 1995 17:13:07 GMT In> From: Jeanne Fisher <[log in to unmask]> In> Subject: Lactation Assistants In> accredited La Leche League Leader. Leaders have been through an In> application process that qualifies them to represent LLLI. We are In> not baby LCs, we are accredited Leaders fully qualified to give In> accurate information and offer support to a nursing mother. While it's true that in LLL we have almost unlimited access to breastfeeding information, to become a Leader we are required only to have *basic* breastfeeding information. In addition, we are never tested on our knowledge before becoming a Leader. Many Leaders I know are extremely well educated on the subject of lactation; however this is something they have done beyond the requirements of LLL. I would feel very uncomfortable calling myself a Lactation Consultant unless I had those letters, IBCLC, to put behind my name. As an LLLL, when I refer a mom to a lactation consultant she will be an IBCLC too, for my own peace of mind. If she's not that, then I might as well help the mom myself because those letters are the only way I know an LC is qualified. The title of Lactation Assistant appeals to me. There is a need for a link between the IBCLC and the LLLL. Some women are uncomfortable contacting a volunteer organization and would prefer to pay; others (sadly, IMHO) are put off by what they perceive LLL philosophy to be. Jo Clark (3 shopping days to Christmas and I haven't even begun!)