Blog
Attention: Recall Notices and Update
There have been several recalls of formula due to contamination. Encourage families to share their stories of formula contamination. ILCA and IBFAN will present these to the World Health Assembly in May. “Right now, advocate for change…with your support we can urge action on a global stage.” (ILCA). Read on.
Paid Leave Begins May 1st
Paid Family and Medical Leave allows twelve weeks paid time to heal, recover and care for family. In Maine, Paid leave begins on May 1st, 2026. You need to apply 30 days before your anticipated leave time.
Challenges and Community
Triple feeding was a 75-minute process: every three hours, 24 hours a day. I doggedly followed an intuition about what was right for me and my family in the moment.
Power Outages and Pumping
It’s likely we will have a power outage during this very cold weather. Plan ahead for breastfeeding, pumping and/or formula feeding. Keeping things clean is most important.
Diets, Lactation and Breastfeeding
A healthy diet is one that respects what your body needs, especially in the time of postpartum.
Diets and Breastfeeding
Our bodies are designed to provide the best nutrition through breast milk. What are these current trends and what is a good diet for a lactating parent?
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.