When Breastfeeding Fails

Counseling a parent who is facing a lactation challenge that could lead to the cessation of breastfeeding requires a storehouse of information, skill, wisdom, and empathy.

Few instructors are more gifted at sharing these elements than Margaret Sabo Willis, BA, IBCLC. Sabo brings 20 years’ experience helping lactating families as well as a true gift for communication and counseling to this sensitive topic. Whether you are a novice or experienced care provider, you will leave this course with a new toolbox full of perspective, insight, and techniques for handling the most difficult lactation challenges.

This course covers:

• Scenarios related to primary lactation failure (insufficient glandular tissue (IGT), endocrine disruption, breast surgery, infant anatomical or metabolic issues, and more);
• Scenarios related to secondary lactation failure (difficult birth/birth interventions, inaccurate information or advice leading to ineffective breastfeeding management, postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, and more); and
• the complex intersections between the two.

Language–the words and phrases lactation professionals use that matter so much–are explored in depth. Sabo presents hypothetical situations and role models gentle, insightful communication by sharing the exact words, phrases, and analogies she uses in a way that you can use right away with your own clients. Recorded interviews with parents add real-life richness to the course and enable you to hear Sabo in action.

By incorporating thoughtful insights from leading experts and authors (Diana Cassar Uhl, Diana West, and others) as well as the newest research, this course supports your practice with evidence-based information.

While “breastfeeding failure” is a concrete term, this course emphasizes that the scenarios lactation professionals encounter are never all-or-nothing. You’ll leave equipped to walk alongside parents and help them rescue the positives from even the hardest situations.