03/07/2025
This statement will be helpful in both clinical and advocacy work. The complete statement can be found here:
https://www.bfmed.org/assets/DOCUMENTS/PositionStatements/SupplmentationStatement.pdf
The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (ABM) just released a new position statement on exclusive breastfeeding. The statement recognizes the critical role of exclusive breastfeeding in ensuring optimal maternal and infant health outcomes. Overfeeding through unnecessary formula supplementation is discussed as well as the challenge of underfeeding. Emphasis is placed on accurate assessment for identifying and intervening for underfeeding to avoid unwanted outcomes. The IBCLC® is spotlighted for referral in situations leading to underfeeding.
“Health care professionals caring for mothers or lactating parents and infants after birth need to be skilled in the assessment, via direct observation, and management of breastfeeding and/or have the ability to refer to a professional expert in breastfeeding support, such as, from a medical doctor or Internationally Board-Certified Lactation Consultant.”
