The Lactation Consultant's Inbox

The first hours and days of breastfeeding are so unique.A new baby, a new identity for a mother, and so many firsts.First latch, first cry, first wet diaper, first time skin to skin, and so on.Everything is intense and technicolor, and everything feels important to document and remember.For those of us supporting the new family, we sometimes struggle with our role: how hands-off can we be while still meeting our responsibility to keep them safe?How can we ever be sure breastfeeding is going well?We’re Evolving Lactation together - join me so you don’t miss a single post! This isn’t just a blog about breastfeeding.I’m here to support everyone whose role it is to support and nurture the breastfeeding family.This Substack is built to strengthen the connections between the practice of lactation support and the rest of the universe of health and well-being.More than twenty years of lactation care in multiple settings and from multiple vantage points have given me some insights, which I share here, along with ideas, inspiration, and resources designed to help you grow in your lactation career.Feelings of isolation, frustration, and a sense of working uphill are all too common in our space.Join me here for the boost you need to fulfill this role well - that we can work together to share what is important about breastfeeding, human milk, and the practice of lactation care.Please share this with someone else who will love it!Effective early lactation care requires the ability to remain focused on what CAN be affected or improved in the moment, what is normal, and what will need to be addressed going forward.In this episode, I’m sharing an overview of The First 100 Hours and what holistic early lactation care means because that’s a question I sometimes receive in The Lactation Consultant’s Inbox.I want it to be clear that this is a whole system of care that everyone can use. Take a listen and let me know how it lands with you.*You can read a transcript instead; look for the button underneath the box at the top.Hit Reply to this email and let me know your thoughts!As always, thank you for everything you do for babies and their parents!P.S. I wrote a book about the First 100 Hours!My Paid Subscribers have access to my Full Archive of more than 150 posts, an Exclusive Chat space here on Substack, and so much more - won’t you join us today? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ibclcinca.substack.com

This post is public so feel free to share it.Click to get YOUR question into The Lactation Consultant’s Inbox!In this episode, I discuss my recent experiences and upcoming speaking engagements related to lactation consulting. I reflect on the importance of addressing predatory formula marketing and the need for a shift in how breastfeeding is promoted. I also share insights from my book, 'Evolving the Modern Breastfeeding Experience,' and emphasize the significance of the first 100 hours after birth for successful breastfeeding. Additionally, I offer advice for those preparing for the IBCLC exam, highlighting key concepts that can aid in understanding breastfeeding practices and selecting the best responses to questions on the exam.TakeawaysThe podcast has received positive feedback from listeners.Christine has several upcoming speaking engagements focused on lactation topics.There is a need to change the narrative around breastfeeding promotion.Christine's book focuses on the first 100 hours of breastfeeding.The first 100 hours are critical for establishing breastfeeding success.Predatory formula marketing is a significant issue in the lactation field.Skin-to-skin contact is essential for breastfeeding success.Christine plans to write another book in the future.The importance of individualized support for breastfeeding is emphasized.Preparation for the IBCLC exam should focus on understanding breastfeeding fundamentals.Sound Bites"Thank you for the podcast!""My book celebrates its first birthday!""I will definitely write another book!"This podcast is created by Christine Staricka, IBCLC using Riverside.fm This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ibclcinca.substack.com

This post is public so feel free to share it.Click to get YOUR question into The Lactation Consultant’s Inbox!Links Mentioned in This EpisodeAcademy of Breastfeeding Medicine Position Statement on Exclusive Breastfeeding and Interview with One of the AuthorsLactation-Specific Clinical Practice CalculatorUS infant formulas contain primarily added sugars: An analysis of infant formulas on the US marketSound Bites from this episode:"Every connection really is exponential.""These are all based on relationships.""Visualize what is the question asking."Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Feedback04:52 Building Connections in Lactation07:27 Navigating IBCLC Exam Requirements10:09 Marketing Strategies for Lactation Consultants13:15 The Importance of Networking and Mentorship15:57 Addressing Clinical Practice Hours for Recertifying IBCLCs18:38 Recent Developments in Infant Formula Research20:13 ABM Position Statement25:05 IBCLC Exam Insight: A Global PerspectiveTakeawaysThe podcast aims to address questions and feedback from the lactation community.Connections in the lactation field can lead to exponential growth and opportunities.Obtaining clinical practice hours for recertification can be challenging but manageable.Marketing strategies should focus on building relationships with other healthcare providers.Networking with local breastfeeding organizations is crucial for success.Lactation consultants should advocate for better quality infant formulas.Preparing for the IBCLC exam requires a global perspective on lactation care.Visualizing diverse scenarios is key to answering exam questions effectively.This is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.This podcast is created by Christine Staricka, IBCLC using Riverside.fm This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ibclcinca.substack.com

SummaryIn this episode, Christine Staricka, an IBCLC, reflects on a pivotal road trip conversation with a colleague about the state of lactation support in their community. They discuss the lack of resources for breastfeeding support post-hospitalization and the need for more lactation support providers. This leads to the creation of a comprehensive training course aimed at empowering new lactation consultants. The episode emphasizes the importance of understanding personal lactation journeys and the context behind breastfeeding education. Christine also introduces the Lactation Consultants Inbox podcast, aimed at addressing common questions and sharing insights within the lactation community.TakeawaysThe in-between moments during conferences are crucial for collaboration.There is a significant lack of resources for breastfeeding support after hospital discharge.Creating a training course for lactation support providers was a necessary step.Personal experiences in lactation can deeply affect one's ability to support others.Understanding one's own lactation journey is essential for effective support.Communication is key in educating about breastfeeding.The podcast aims to provide context and answers to common lactation questions.It's important to address the myths and misunderstandings surrounding breastfeeding.The journey of lactation support is ongoing and requires continuous learning.Community engagement is vital for the growth of lactation support services.Chapters00:00 The Journey Begins: A Story from 201202:48 Identifying Gaps in Lactation Support05:50 Transformative Learning Experiences08:27 Understanding Personal Lactation Journeys11:17 The Importance of Context in Lactation Education13:51 The Purpose of the Lactation Consultants Inbox Podcasthttps://tinyurl.com/vxt2an96 to submit questionshttps://a.co/d/iVk2tBM link to my bookhttps://ibclcinca.substack.com/ read more and stay connected by subscribing to my blog on Substackhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/christinestaricka/ connect with me on LinkedInhttps://www.instagram.com/ibclcinca/ connect with me on InstagramThis podcast was produced on my own personal podcasting studio using Riverside.fm - learn how to set up your own right here https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_5&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=christine-starickaKeywordslactation support, breastfeeding education, IBCLC, lactation consultants, personal journey, community training, podcast, lactation advocacy, healthcare communication, breastfeeding resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ibclcinca.substack.com

Thanks for reading listening/watching/reading! Subscribe for free to receive new posts & episodes and support my work.Welcome to the Lactation Consultants inbox. I'm your host, Christine Staricka. I'm an IBCLC Lactation Consultant, Health Writer, and Public Speaker working to connect breastfeeding and human milk with their full context in the world. From the first day that I truly understood how my own mothering journey had been hijacked by predatory infant formula marketing to my recent foray into reading and integrating information about human lactation,with what we know about lifelong breast health and development, I've been driven by the need to continue learning and to stay in communication with others about breastfeeding, lactation, and health. On my new podcast, The Lactation Consultant's Inbox, we will visit my inbox together. You see, on a daily basis, I field questions about anything and everything lactation related, and I thought it was time that I shared that with you.I will walk you through my inbox answering questions and sharing insights on things like clinical lactation issues, research articles, questions about lactation training, education, and certification, what it's like to be a lactation consultant, how to build your experience and confidence as a lactation care provider, how to uncover your biases and practice from a neutral and ethical stance. What's being done to end predatory formula marketing?the Who Code, and so much more. I've had an unconventional career in lactation, and it's brought me countless opportunities to listen and be in conversation with people from all over the world. I've been a student, an instructor, an intern, a mentor, a volunteer, a paid employee, a nonprofit board member, an author, and a public speaker. I've held many roles, breastfeeding peer support group leader,Lactation Educator, IBCLC, Lactation Education Events Planner, Lactation Program Manager, Baby Cafe Facilitator, just to name a few. But this podcast will be about you. You will be the center of this podcast. You work or volunteer in lactation support, perinatal health and wellness, public health, nursing, medical care. You are a healthcare provider.an allied health professional, a student preparing for a career that elevates and facilitates health. You want to know everything you can about breastfeeding and human milk, breast health, how to educate about lactation, who's who in lactation support, who's doing what to change the landscape of breastfeeding in the world. You want to be sure you are thinking critically when you encounter lactation information or messaging out in the world.You have questions, ideas, opinions, and plans. That is what will shape the episodes of this podcast. If I don't have an answer for your question, I'll do my best to share my thought process on how we can find the best answers together. Check the show notes for this trailer and use the link to submit your questions for the Lactation Consultants inbox. I can't wait to hear from you. I'm so glad you're here with me on this journey. Let's talk soon.Click the Image Below to Submit Your Question! ⬇️This post is public so feel free to share it! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ibclcinca.substack.com

It’s nice to see you here!If you’re new, welcome. This is a positive and friendly space where you’ll find inspiration, connection, and resources for your pursuit of lactation confidence and knowledge. If you’ve been around, I’m so grateful for your support.I’m Christine, and I write and record this Substack and podcast myself.(I could use some help with some things, but that’s probably a story for another day!)I have been working in lactation care since 2001 and have been an IBCLC since 2009.I recently re-certified as an IBCLC for the third time. This was my first time using the IBCLC Commission’s new process and recertification requirements, so I learned a lot about how to prepare for them. If you’re interested in me sharing more about my re-certification process, let me know here!I entered this field from a breastfeeding support group background, and I believe in the power of group/peer lactation support as a foundational part of breastfeeding knowledge.I’m working on some resources for you on group support, how to integrate observing group support while you’re preparing for the IBCLC exam (especially if you’re on Pathway 1), and why I believe group support can be life-changing. I am very well-versed in the process of becoming an IBCLC, our Professional Standards, the Code of Professional Conduct, and the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes (the WHO Code.) I spend a lot of time reading, re-reading, reviewing, and applying these documents to real-life situations. I often share what I learn through this Substack and in speaking presentations for various organizations. Evolve Lactation is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.The ten years I spent working in the hospital were also foundational to my training and skillset as an IBCLC.In a perfect world, I believe every IBCLC would have experience working (or volunteering) in group/peer breastfeeding support, hospital postpartum, and in a clinic or private practice scenario. In the real world, we don’t all get every single kind of experience. But with a thoughtful and intentional approach, we can incorporate elements of each into our preparation journeys and integrate this concept into the mentoring we provide for future and aspiring lactation consultants. What I experienced in the hospital, alongside the tremendous sense of reward and appreciation that comes with helping others, was a growing sense of frustration that though I felt knowledgeable and prepared to provide skilled lactation care, sometimes I could not get the most important messages across to my patients or my hospital co-workers. So, I took what I learned from working in labor and delivery, postpartum, and the NICU, integrated it with what I knew from working in the outpatient, community, and group support settings, and developed a novel strategy for supporting the dyad.You may have heard me mention The First 100 Hours somewhere along the way. Let’s get into the details. I believe that every new parent deserves to get high-quality lactation care from someone who fullyunderstands the physiology of breastfeeding.Using the First 100 Hours lens and language has allowed me to explain better, evaluate dyads better, and create lactation management plans with my clients and patients that actually help them to meet & exceed their goals.This course is for every IBCLC, every perinatalprofessional, and every person who is interested in fully understanding the importance of breastfeeding and human milk, especially in the first 100 hours of life.Over the past 11 years, I’ve taught versions of this strategy to many audiences, and it was received so well. Here in 2024, I wanted to expand it and build a robust course that could be accessed online and used by anyone who has contact with people during the pre-conception, pregnancy, birth, and postpartum spaces of life. Holistic Lactation Care in the First 100 Hours: A Masterclass in Early Lactation Care is a comprehensive and focused approach to understanding how best to teach about and support (both clinically and practically) the earliest days of breastfeeding.Through the relatively narrow lens of The First 100 Hours of life, we can also see the many elements of how human lactation is established, what needs to happen in the surrounding environment, and what information everyone needs to know about it. The course examines this critical but small sliver of time and takes into account a multitude of factors impacting the dyad as a whole. Sometimes, people say to me, “But I already support breastfeeding!” Wonderful! Thank you. Your work matters.You’re working hard to support breastfeeding in all the ways you have been taught in the past.Yet, you still sometimes feel frustrated and ineffective when you think about how hard it is for so many new families to get breastfeeding off to a good start. This training course is designed to offer you a transformation: the knowledge AND the competency-based mindset required to support expectant and new parents in the First 100 Hours of their baby’s life. Here’s what I know is true: Educating, supporting, and caring for the postpartum dyad is easier when we adopt a mindset of simplicity.That’s exactly what this training sets up for you and, ultimately, for your clients when you use it.If you like the idea of feeling more confident and leaving behind the sense that you are “missing something” in your work with pregnant, birthing, and postpartum patients/clients, learn more about the course here. ⬇️* You can earn 8 CERPs for this course.* The short videos make it easier to take in all the information.* You can listen to the audio on your favorite podcast player if you prefer to learn that way.* You can download a whole workbook of forms to use as you apply The First 100 Hours approach to your work.* The course cost is $197* If you need an invoice so that your employer or organization can pay for you to learn, just email me at [email protected], and I’ll take care of that for you.If you have any other questions at all, please reach out anytime. Thank you again for everything you do to support breastfeeding - every single action makes a difference for our future!* Additionally, I am actively seeking a partner to assist me with accrediting this course for continuing education for registered nurses. If you know of anyone who can help, please reach out! I appreciate it. Thanks for reading Evolve Lactation! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ibclcinca.substack.com