ILCA Conference Report- Mary Jo Reynolds
Taboo Topics 1-2-3
A discussion of three topics that may be considered “taboo”. (methadone, lesbian couples, adult couple relations and breastfeeding)
A look at these situations with emotional, technical and ethical perspectives
Objectives were to have the participants challenge their prejudices, use the information to deal with different situations and identify ethical issues related to a situation which may be very different to their own values.
IBCLCs from Quebec, Canada
Presented the cases with IBCLC Code of Ethics to help us find a way to work through the situations when values are challenged
Sharing of the groups personal experiences
Methadone and Breastfeeding
What are the current recommendations? What have we seen with our Moms?
Mom and baby both on Methadone?
Baby remains in the hospital?
Question: Is mother on methadone able to safely breastfeed her baby?
Big support issue for Mom. Programs available.
Recommendations are based on assumption that the mother is in a structured drug treatment program (monitoring of maternal urine to detect other drugs)
L3 per Hale, AAP approved “usually compatible with breastfeeding”
Lesbian Couples and Breastfeeding
What does the lesbian couple think about this?
Is breastfeeding recommended?
Can both woman breastfeed?
Lesbian views vary of course, like everyone else.
Traditional roles
Alternative roles
Induced lactation
What have you done in this situation?
Adult couple intimate relations and breastfeeding
Oxytocin in the hormone of love!
Perceptions for most:
-Breastfeeding is perceived as maternal and not sexual
-Pleasure is not acceptable
-Sexual, because it involves sex-organs and sex hormones
Question: Is it a sexual deviation if a man/partner likes to suckle the breast during sexual relations?
IBCLC Code of Ethics (Tenets 1,2 &9)
#1. Provide professional services with objectivity and with respect for the unique needs and values of individuals
#2. Avoid discrimination against other individuals on the basis of race, creed, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age and national origin.
#9. Recognize and exercise professional judgement within the limits of her/his qualifications. This principle includes seeking counsel and making referrals to appropriate providers.
How do you deal with a mother that you are not able to help her because of your personal limits or beliefs? How do you deal with this?