Karen writes:
I like to think my practice includes the more expansive, interactive
concept of breastfeeding, which is far, far more than the physical function of
lactation. (In all fairness, later descriptions were better!)
Am I the only one who is bugged when our profession and the work we do
goes by the term "lactation" without the "consultant"? (Truth to tell, I've
never been thrilled by that title either, but it beats refs to "lactation"
only!)
~~~
No, you are surely not the only one. Loss of diverse entryways to this work
is a true loss, in my opinion as well. I have some wonderful LLL CoLeaders
who could be amazing LCs, but their path if not ended, has at least
derailed for a while. Also, I wrote to the Board the minute after I got out of
the IBCLC exam the first time. As a PT we had to pass both written and
practical exams. I was asked to role play with 2 different, randomly chosen
patient scenarios, in front of three seasoned PTs. To me this was the more
important part of deciding whether I should be called a PT ( which by definition
means a licensed PT, as opposed to anyone being able to say they are a
lactation consultant....) It seems the older I get, the farther off track
things get. Despite writing letters/ emails, and getting responses, nothing
changes. I just recertified by CERPS for this year, and I think that's a good
requirement. As a PT I have to do the same. But thinking about taking the
exam again at the 20 year mark makes me want to retire. If all working
IBCLCs who meet CERP requirements pass the exam anyway, why go through that? The
learning and networking that comes from taking courses exposes one to much
more important things than passing a multiple choice exam. The
"consultant" part is the heart and soul of what we do. The ability to be with a
struggling mother over time and help her figure out HOW to use the knowledge we
bring is something only we do. Knowing the fundamentals of lactation is
critical, but without the time and care and skills that are required to help
angry, annoyed, upset, sad, exhausted, shocked new mothers, the lactation
part will fail. ( This is true where I live at least, where birth is often
more of an assault to mother and baby than a transformative physical/emotional
journey.)
I find it very sad, actually, the way things are going.
Peace,
Judy
Judy LeVan Fram, PT, IBCLC, LLLL
Brooklyn, NY, USA
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