This is a very interesting thread.  I can only hope that most LC's foster
independence in their clients and support the notion that women need to learn
to trust their bodies.  This said, I am sure there are people (LC's, docs,
nurses) that tend to "take over" a woman's plan of care.  Breastfeeding used
to be a skill handed down from mother to daughter and learned as a normal
part of living.  Sadly, we all know this is a rare incident in our modern
times.  I am always so thrilled when a grandmother tells me that she nursed
the now new mother and is supportive of breastfeeding.  Some new moms and
dads are actually surprised that their baby cries and sometimes is difficult
to console.  This is when I often see nurses offer to take the baby to the
nsy. so the parents can rest.  Actions like this can encourage dependence and
disempower the new parents.  Many times, this is when the baby gets
supplemented w/ formula and can be very frustrating for those of us that
support breastfeeding.
I get very strange reactions from people when I tell them what I do.  Some
people don't understand that there is a specialty area just for lactation and
it is something that needs to be taught and supported.  If they only knew!
Well, after the 12-HR. day I am a little punchy and I hope my rambling made
sense.
S. Bowes RN, IBCLC

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