I’ve been an IBCLC since 2007 and interested in human lactation long before that! So many resources out there and my bookshelf is packed! Thankfully moving toward Kindle copies as I purchase new books and I love being able to take my resources on the go. I have a few favorites that are always my go-to and many have had several edition updates since first published. The field of lactation is constantly changing as evidence-based practice evolves. As professionals, it’s so important to stay current and continually update our knowledge base. If you read my blog post “My Top 5 Resources for New Parents”, you’ll recognize some of these books and I love that they’re appropriate for parents and professionals! I have expanded the list to include my favorite classics that I refer to time after time!
1. Breastfeeding: A Guide for the Medical Professional – Comprehensive, evidence-based resource for issues beyond basic breastfeeding support
2. Supporting Sucking Skills in Breastfeeding Infants – The science of sucking is fascinating and I love the clinical strategies to support breastfeeding babies through all stages of lactation.
3. The Breastfeeding Atlas – I’m very much a visual learner and, when studying for my first IBLCE exam in 2007, this was my go-to! I highly recommend for all exam candidates and you will continue to use as you practice.
4. Making More Milk: The Breastfeeding Guide to Increasing Your Milk Production – This is a great guide overall and is my go-to for guidance on lab work investigation for low supply.
5. Breastfeeding and Human Lactation – Packed with information and a great study resource for the IBLCE exam.
6. Tongue Tied: How a Tiny String Under the Tongue Impacts Nursing, Speech, Infant Feeding and More – Detailed, comprehensive and research-based to help you support families of babies with oral tethers.
7. Breastfeeding Without Birthing: A Breastfeeding Guide for mothers through Adoption, Surrogacy, and Other Special Circumstances: A must-read if you support families inducing lactation!
8. Continuity of Care in Breastfeeding: Best Practices in the Maternity Care Setting – a classic from 2008 but a must-read for hospital IBCLCs!
9. Breastfeeding after Breast and Nipple Procedures – The essential guide for supporting parents with a history of breast surgery
10. Hale’s Medications and Mothers’ Milk – Regularly updated resource for information on safety of medications in lactating parents and babies.
Bonus Recommendation: The Motherfood series by Hilary Jacobson
Have fun reading and I hope you find something new to add to your collection! If you have another must-have resource to add, please share in comments!
Jennifer Gerard, APRN, FNP, IBCLC