Two powerful advocates share their personal journeys into lactation consulting and discuss the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ families. Join us as we discuss the significance of human milk for infants and provide insights on how health care professionals can support diverse families. We also address stigma and bias in the health care setting and offer resources for nurses to become better allies.

Jacob Engelsman, IBCLC

Jacob Engelsman is an infant care specialist, childbirth educator, and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant specializing in lactation support for gender diverse families. He is the author of Lactation for the Rest of Us: A Guide for Queer and Trans Parents and Helpers as well as many talks and articles on how clinicians can better support LGBTQIA+ families. He is currently working on a follow-up book on infant care as well as a book on how medical professionals can support LGBTQIA+ patients. He lives and works in Atlanta, GA with his husband and two cats.

Kristin Cavuto, MSW LCSW IBCLC

Kristin Cavuto is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant located in central NJ. Her clinical lactation specialties are low supply (specifically Insufficient glandular tissue), and other medical low supply, poor weight gain, and difficulty with latching issues.

As a therapist, they specialize in parental and infant mental health, the transition to parenthood, and in LGBTQ+ and polyamory issues. They have spoken on various lactation, mental health, and equity topics for many regional, national, and international conferences and organizations.

She serves as a legal advocate and expert witness for cases involving lactation, child welfare, or LGBTQ+ families. She is a resource to other professionals in private practice who need coaching on boundaries, work/life balance, and burnout, or clinical consultation on low supply cases.

Kristin is the mother of two teenagers, a part of the LGBTQ+ and polyam communities, and an anti-racist activist. Her approach to lactation and mental health work is based in individualized care, deep acceptance, and empathy, along with strong clinical skills. She sees clients as whole people who deserve to be supported to reach their goals. Her 20+ years of clinical education and experience, coupled with personal understanding of lactation, parenting, and mental health work gives clients the best possible care.

The post Inclusive Lactation: Supporting Gender Diverse Families appeared first on AWHONN.