Alicia Farina, BA, RN, IBCLC
I’m so excited you are curious and interested in breastfeeding. Human milk is a gift of a lifetime. One that only you can give, Uniquely made for your baby alone. Maybe you were not breastfed, or perhaps you are hearing such comments from friends and family like, “I gave my baby formula, it’s not that big a deal.”
Like you, I am a mother. I have three daughters, one who is adopted. Each one of them received my milk, because that’s what we do. And the milk can’t do what it does, unless you give it to the baby. As my family grew, I knew I wanted to continue doing “Happy Nursing” (See above - even the girls loved nursing their dolls!) in an environment that was more flexible and conducive to my lifestyle. So I told Cedar Sinai goodbye, and enrolled in the University of California, San Diego’s International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Program. My coursework required competency in knowledge and management of breastfeeding at various stages of childhood. My education did not stop with passing of my International Boards. That was only the beginning. I continue attending Workshops and Seminars to maintain my level of knowledge and safe practice.
Many people are unaware of the importance of early intervention. With a International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) to help, a new mother can confidently build up and establish her milk production. Generally, one visit is all you need to get things going. In some cases, a second visit may be required. Compared to the alternative of spending up to $1,500.00/year on formula alone, I feel we can agree your baby is worth the investment.
