Thursday, March 26, 2009

Keeping Abreast!


I was offered the chance to take a lactation class this week. The last three days we went through a manual that was at least two inches thick. I have seen more nipples and breasts than anybody should in three days time. I have learned how to position a doll to latch correctly, and I have learned how to use almost any breast paraphernalia you could imagine.

I have always wanted to be able to help the NICU moms be more successful with breastfeeding, and I have nursed quite a litter myself, so I thought this would be interesting. Did I mention I got paid to go? Anyways, I learned quite a bit. I learned all the things I did wrong and that I would do differently if I had to do it all over again (please, no!).

I also learned some very funny names for lacation specialists. They aren't the favorite people in the hospital and they have been called nipple natzis for quite a while. I also heard, lactavist, boobologist, breastoppo, and titty twister.

That being said, I would like to think of myself as a lactavist. I really believe human milk is the gold standard and we should do all we can to help mothers achieve their goal of breastfeeding their babies. As long as it is their goal and we aren't "forcing" our agendas on them.

So to all my friends at work who may want to call me Sister Breast, go ahead. We can still be friends.

6 comments:

dbc said...

Can i call you Betty Boob? Oh please.

Tiffany said...

From one "lo lo" fan to another... way to go! Kudos for jumping all over that continuing education. Are you now a certified lactation consultant? Wish I could have done Mommy Moo Cow more than once. It was wonderful.

Kristen said...

You are so funny! Welcome to the club.

Diane said...

Yes Dantzel, You can call me Betty Boob if I can call you momma moo. Tiffany, I am not a IBCLC, but I can help out here and there. And Kristen, Thanks. We sure miss you!

BookwormMom said...

You are so funny! I'm actually glad that you're one of the ones who went through that class...You'll be really good at it.

Marianne said...

That post made me laugh out loud! I am sure it was a great education! I agree with you that if a mom wants to breast feed it is the best thing in the world and I think so many give up because they don't have good help to show them how to do it correctly so that it can be a wonderful experience! I am sure you will make a difference in many a life. Way to go!!!