Complementary and Competing Roles of Volunteers and Professionals in the Breastfeeding Field

Virginia Thorley

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DOI: 10.2190/J34G-YBBR-F4KL-0GW0

Abstract

The roles of professionals in the breastfeeding field, particularly the relatively new profession of lactation consultant, may seem to compete with that of vol-untary counselors. This article examines past areas of misunderstanding and suggests that the roles of the volunteer and professional are, in fact, complementary. Good communication is increasingly enabling both parties to work together for the benefit of all, especially the mother and baby.

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