Blog
The Good Work of the Coalition
Emily Elting, President and Kara Kaikini, Executive Director of the Maine State Breastfeeding Coalition. The September conference was a motivating review of the Coalitions’s mission, an excellent program of topics and a good time to connect in person.
Meeting Colleagues at a Conference
Every IBCLC needs a network of trusted professionals. The Maine State Breastfeeding Conference is an excellent place to learn, meet and discuss details with colleagues.
More IBCLC Support for Families
The original impetus for this legislation came from MItchell Kohls, IBCLC. With the co-operation of many others, on a tight deadline, they accomplished something important.
Being Lactation Friendly
We celebrate the Town of Brunswick. They have implemented Lactation Friendly policies in thier municipal offices.
Patchwork of Parenthood
The ‘Patchwork of Parenthood’ storytelling event is an occasion to recognize parents as they learn, change and find resilience.
MaineCare and IBCLC Support
Kara Kaikini, Mitchell Kohls, Paula Norcott, Robin Snyder-Drummond, Nicole Hart, Anne Marie Van Hengel and Lisa Sheer: six IBCLCs and one OB-Gyn testified in support of a LD 865. That would require MaineCare to reimburse IBCLCs for home and private practice visits.
Pelvic Floor Health and Breastfeeding
Dr. Meag is a Physical Therapist who helps women with strengthening their pelvic floor. This is especially important for postpartum recovery.
Generous Milk Depot Donation
Elizabeth and her happy son Liam met Robin the IBCLC at the Milk Depot in Ellsworth. Elizabeth is a generous donor of Human Milk, donating over 500 ounces to the Mothers’ Milk Bank Northeast so far. That will reach many babies.
Safe Feeding In Emergencies
In an emergency like a severe storm, there is a risk of water contamination. Contaminated water can lead to diarrhea and dehydration in babies. Whether breastfed, bottle fed or formula fed, a few simple steps can avoid this serious problem.
Breast Milk and TSA Policies
Having food for our babies while we’re travelling is important. TSA lists specific foods as “medically necessary liquids”. The policies for handling these foods and breast pumps needs to be consistently enforced.
Be an Effective Advocate
“There are so many different ways to be involved and they’re all really important.” Brooke Barron reviewed the basic steps of legislation. Learn about important dates and ways to communicate with your legislators.
Breastfeeding After Breast Cancer
This story and these resources will help you understand and plan for breastfeeding after breast cancer. There are also several resources for support and information that she shares.
Recognition of WIC Support
Congratulations to this WIC office in Ellsworth, Maine! They won a Gold Award from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). This crew has offered practical support and resources to many families in the Downeast region of Maine.
Pumping & Storing Milk at Work
We recommend creating a scheduling and experimenting with your pumping routine, and be sure you have the right equipment to make it a bit easier.
Stocking Up On Milk
Start preparing to pump at work about 6 weeks before your return date by pumping and freezing milk. You really only need enough milk for the first day you and your baby are separated, plus some extra as a cushion!
Your Back to Work Plan After Having a Baby
Creating a back to work plan and discussing it with your supervisor before your return to work can greatly increase the likelihood of a positive return-to-work experience for both you and your employer.
Productive Advocacy
The Maine State Breastfeeding Coalition has partnered with other organizations to accomplish some important policy changes. Maine Paid Family Leave and the Tool Kit for Employees Returning to Work are two important gains.
Making Milk, Providing Milk.
There are several ways for us to better provide more Human Milk to more babies. When every baby receives human milk, we will be a healthier Maine. Help close the gap in access to breast milk. Learn about what you can do and celebrate World Breastfeeding Week August 1-7, 2024.
Pride Celebration
I have seen changes happening in lactation spaces…more terms being used.. more research… more trainings being offered that focus on 2SLGBTQIA+ lactation.