If your Pediatrician is only giving lip service to "breast is best", then s/he is going to recommend formula at every sign of difficulty, when formula is very rarely needed when you are experiencing challenges. What is needed is accurate breastfeeding information and support. Ask around at an LLL meeting, breastfeeding class or Mom's group for recommendations for a health care provider who is *truly* supportive of nursing. You can also search the Holistic Pediatric Association’s Provider Directory at: http://www.hpakids.org/state_search.html

The same principle is true when speaking about your Obstetrician or Midwife. Ask your Doctor or CNM how she feels about breastfeeding and what she would recommend if you ran into challenges. Listen carefully to her response to gauge how passionate and knowledgeable she is about the topic.

Also- be aware that not everyone who calls herself a breastfeeding counselor has ever actually nursed a baby. They may not even have more knowledge than a couple of hours of instruction in basic breastfeeding management. If you need a Lactation Consultant, find one with the initials IBCLC after her name, meaning that she has been certified by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners. Or contact a La Leche League leader, who is herself a nursing Mom (or has been a nursing Mom) and is skilled in helping mothers through common breastfeeding challenges. LLL leaders have gone through an accreditation process with La Leche League International and are qualified to give information and support to nursing Moms.

And one other point about Lactation Consultants: Sadly, I have heard from several Moms that their experience with their LC was less than satisfying. Some have even been given very bad advice. Like any other health professional, L.C.s make mistakes and also are influenced by personal feelings. If you get advice that doesn’t feel right, do get a second opinion. Call another L.C. or La Leche League Leader.

Developing a relationship with an LLL leader or L.C. means that you won't hesitate to call her when you have a problem, for example, sore nipples or if you're concerned about your baby getting enough milk. Or, if you need to take medication and want to know if it is compatible with breastfeeding.

As a general rule, most medicines are safe to use while breastfeeding, and even if they aren't, they often can be administered in such a way so as not to disrupt the breastfeeding relationship unnecessarily. If your Doctor tells you that you must stop breastfeeding to take a medication, call La Leche League and get more information, consult Medications and Mother's Milk, considered to be one of the most important reference books for nursing Moms, and get a second opinion. Let your Doctor know how much breastfeeding means to you and your baby, and ask if there are alternatives.

Getting your health care team on your side means you and your baby will enjoy a happier and healthier nursing experience!

Helpful Resources: 

The International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners: Find a board certified Lactation Consultant at: http://www.iblce.org/US%20registry.htm