Today is IBCLC Day, and we are celebrating the International Board Certified Lactation Consultants who make such a difference in the experiences of families throughout their feeding journeys with their babies.

What is an IBCLC? An IBCLC is a professional who has undertaken rigorous training in health sciences and lactation education, obtained clinical experiences to develop a breadth of knowledge across varying situations, has completed a certification exam, and actively maintains their certification through ongoing continuing education. With these tools in hand, an IBCLC provides lactation education, partners in problem solving, and supports families in their feeding relationships with their babies.

At Bridgetown Baby, we’ve created a unique model that integrates whole family care and feeding support, because feeding - at breast/chest, by bottle or cup, early in infancy or through toddlerhood - is such a huge part of the equation in the postpartum period. Through our years of practice in the Portland Metro area, we’ve seen countless times how support from a lactation consultant can tip the balance from struggle toward a sweet and successful feeding relationship - and that nourishes everyone in the family.

So, we celebrate lactation consultants every day! We have been so grateful to be able to grow our team of IBCLCs - and, over the last year, develop a suite of in-person and virtual services to support families through the COVID pandemic.

Since our Bridgetown Baby IBCLCs inspire us every day, for this year’s IBCLC Day, we asked them what inspires them. Read on to learn what motivates the talented, dedicated lactation consultants on our team.

If you’re inspired, too, please share your words of thanks or special feeding stories with us!

I think one of my favorite parts of being an IBCLC is just being present with a new family at such an important time in their lives.  It’s truly an honor.

-Alimah

I fell in love with being around other nursing parents after my first daughter was born. I went to all the groups and then would stay for hours after if others did, too. I just couldn't get enough. When it was time to go back to my job, I knew I had to listen to this voice calling me to stay in this space. I went back to school, had another baby and five years later, started Bridgetown Baby, my third baby.

-Merriah

I came to this work after seeing first-hand how new parents struggle when it comes to feeding their babies. I wouldn’t say it was easy, but I had a pretty uneventful feeding journey with my daughter; however many of my friends and loved ones had difficult experiences, and finding appropriate support seemed to be a challenge. We live in a culture that doesn’t support breast/chestfeeding - insurance coverage is hit or miss, we have no parental leave, and there is conflicting information everywhere you turn. I love this job and I wish the support we provide was more accessible for all.

-Robin

My favorite thing about being an IBCLC is how it combines so many of my favorite activities: learning about science, solving puzzles, opportunities for personal reflection and growth, filling in genuine support gaps in holistic care for new families, and - of course - all the sweet babies!

-Sarah

I don't know her personally but Linda Bryant-Daaka was an inspiration for me. I heard her talk at a meeting of the Oregon Washington Lactation Association and was blown away by her presence and how hard she works.  She inspired me to become a doula and lactation consultant. 

-Sasha