Chelsea Clark, RN, IBCLC

10/15/2025

Ireland’s breastfeeding rates are among the lowest in the world. However, this 2025 retrospective cohort study found that simply learning and practicing hand expression in the last month of a low-risk pregnancy resulted in more mothers starting and continuing breastfeeding. Read about it here: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0266613825003419?via%3Dihub

11/26/2023

Unfortunately, in our profession, the term "lactation consultant" is used broadly to describe anyone who "helps moms with breastfeeding."

Support is certainly needed in all settings and at different levels, but it is important to know the distinctions that exist.

As you are searching for answers or referring others to a "lactation consultant", take a look at their credentials to determine what kind of help is the best fit for the situation.

Here are some titles you might see associated with each group:

Peer Supporter: BCBC, BC USA, HC One, LLL, Rose CT, WIC BFPC
Breastfeeding Educator: BEC, CBE, CLE, CLEC, LEC
Lactation Counselor: ALC, ANLC, BC, CBS, CLC, CLS
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant: IBCLC

Hope this helps!

10/05/2023

Very exciting news for pregnant people with VT Medicaid! 😊🤍

08/10/2023

There is a comment period for the proposed breast pump policy change (increasing access!) if you would like to submit a comment:

https://humanservices.vermont.gov/sites/ahsnew/files/doc_library/23-074-P-GCR-Expanded-Breast-Pump-Coverage.pdf

Please share widely!

In gratitude,

Chelsea

03/01/2023

Happy IBCLC Day!

07/04/2022

06/23/2022

We know more about cow’s milk than human milk. But new research about the makeup of breast milk and the factors influencing its production could change the lives of millions.

05/16/2022

Unfortunately there is a formula shortage in the US right now and VT families are affected. This can be very scary for families, if you have the means to donate please do. Due to shortages some families are not able to find formula covered by WIC and have to pay out of pocket. For some families this can mean choosing formula over food for the rest of their family. No family should ever be in that position.

Here are some tips:

For most babies it is ok to change to any available formula, including store brand. No need to slowly change formulas, a hard switch is ok. Most babies tolerate this change easily, some may have gassiness or p**p changes with a brand change. Call us to discuss comfort measures for your baby.

If your baby is on an extensively hydrated or amino acid formula please talk to us first as there are few alternatives for specialty formulas.

It is ok to use pasteurized donated breastmilk from a donor milk bank such Vermont Donor Milk Center]

DO NOT make your own formula, these are not safe or nutritious

DO NOT dilute or water down formula, this can be very dangerous to babies.

If your baby is close to a year call us to talk about changing to milk or milk alternative. If your child is eating a wide variety of foods and getting iron in their diet this is likely a safe option. Call us to discuss.

Toddler formula is not the same as infant formula. Toddler formula can be a short term option for kids over 9 months if you are unable to find formula.

Donate to your local food bank or Vermont Donor Milk Center if you can

05/13/2022

If you are pregnant and planning to breastfeed, I offer prenatal visits to help you to be as prepared as possible for your baby’s arrival.