Happy IBCLC Day! Meet our Clinical Director, Gina Boling

Introduction

Happy IBCLC Day! Heres to all of our IBCLC at The Breastfeeding Center and all of the lovely IBCLCs out there. We recognize and celebrate you not just today, but all days! We are so excited to introduce a new segment here at The Center called, “ Meet an IBCLC” which gives our current/future clients and community a chance to know a bit more about our IBCLCs. If there’s an IBCLC in your life, we encourage you to give them a thank you for all of the great work they do! Today, Meet our Clinical Director and IBCLC, Gina Boling! Happy Reading.

What inspired you to become an IBCLC?

I was inspired to become a lactation consultant after overcoming nursing challenges of my own.  My first baby, now 18 years old, had some early struggles, including a tongue tie, which contributed to my developing a breast infection (mastitis).  At the time, I had no idea what was going on.  I just knew that something was wrong and I was in pain.  I was fortunate to see a Lactation Consultant (Pat Shelley, who was the founder of The Breastfeeding Center.)  She helped guide me through and I went on to have an amazing experience.  After I had my twins, I realized how different each and every nursing story can be.  I feel passionately about lactation and know that I may not have been able to meet my goals without professional support.

What is something you wish everyone knew about your career?

I wish that more people understood that an IBCLC is part of the medical team.  We are trained in the clinical management of lactation, and  routinely assess the parent and baby dyad together.  We spend time doing a thorough history and assessment of our clients to identify areas where assistance may be needed, and work with you to meet YOUR goals.  There is not a “one size fits all” answer to most nursing questions, and an IBCLC can be an important part of your nursing journey.

What is your favorite/ most fulfilling thing about your job?

I just love helping new parents and their babies.  When a new parent suddenly says “Oh, that latch feels so much better” or “I am so relieved to hear this is normal” or even “I am so glad to have a plan because I was so worried about my baby’s weight,”  I know I have made a difference in their experience.  I try to build relationships with my clients and love to continue working with them throughout their nursing journey.