Pump It Up!: Supporting Exclusively Pumping Parents

Session Description

The first breast pump is credited to being invented/patented in 1854 by O. H. Needham. Since then, the pump industry has exploded, making breast pumps of some sort accessible throughout the Western World. But, while technology has transitioned with the times, the bias that exists within lactation has not. Clinicians are still drawing hard lines on what the “true” definition is. In this presentation, we’ll dive into why there’s still a debate and answer the age old question. Spoiler alert: Pumping is breastfeeding. Period.

This presentation will address the learners' understanding of the definition of breastfeeding and how to support parents in breastfeeding/chestfeeding via pumping.

Learning Objectives

Define breastfeeding/chestfeeding and the difference between “from the breast” vs. “at the breast”, using language that is mindful.
Discuss the importance of checking biases and how biases affect trust and respect when working with a dyad/triad.
Identify reasons why parents may utilize a breast pump.
Describe how IBCLCs can impact and facilitate proper use of breast pumps.
Explain how support networks affect the breastfeeding relationship, including initiation and duration of breastfeeding.
Describe what’s covered under WHO Code as it relates to pumping parents (and what is not covered).
Implement important counseling and active listening skills when speaking with parents/clients.

About the Speaker

Nichelle Clark is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), wife, and mom of two residing in Chesapeake, Virginia. She is the owner of SonShine & Rainbows Lactation Services. Born and raised in Upper Marlboro, MD, Nichelle joined the United States Navy in 2010 and served honorably for 7.5 years.

When she’s not spending time with family, she serves as a United States Lactation Consultant Association (USLCA) Advisory Board Member and Clinical Lactation Journal Social Media Editor. She also serves as the Virginia Breastfeeding Coalition Member-At-Large. In her spare time, she admins multiple online support groups for People of Color, providing breastfeeding support and lactation education to her community.

As an exclusive pumping mom herself, Nichelle is a champion for breastfeeding parents to write their own rules and breastfeed their way.

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