Online Resources
The internet can be a bit of a black hole, you know? These are a few of my favorite sites that may help you stay clear and informed.
EVIDENCE-BASED RESOURCES
Childbirth Connection | National Partnership for Women & Families
comprehensive articles & national surveys
“Founded in 1918 as the Maternity Center Association, Childbirth Connection is now a core program of the National Partnership for Women & Families. For nearly 100 years, we have helped develop and advance many forms of care that are now critical components of the nation’s maternity care system. More recently, we launched a long-term program to promote evidence-based maternity care through policy and quality initiatives. We will continue working to improve and transform the nation’s maternity care system so that childbearing women and babies consistently receive high-quality, woman- and family-centered care.”
LACTATION
Breastfeeding Inc.
in-depth breastfeeding info sheets
Created by Edith Kernerman, IBCLC, and the co-founder of the International Breastfeeding Centre.
DRUGS, CHEMICALS, & MEDICATIONS
Infant Risk Center
DRUG & CHEMICAL DATABASE/APP
Led by Thomas Hale, Ph.D., R.Ph., a professor of pediatrics and associate dean of research at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and acting executive director of the InfantRisk Center.
“The vision of the InfantRisk Center is to create a new body of drug information concerning the safety of medications and their use during pregnancy and lactation. Additionally, the center will expand, enhance and disseminate knowledge regarding the use of medications and other environmental chemicals by pregnant and breastfeeding women worldwide.”
*Also check out the MommyMeds App for on-the-go information.
TOXNET: LactMed®
drug & chemical database
“The LactMed® database contains information on drugs and other chemicals to which breastfeeding mothers may be exposed. It includes information on the levels of such substances in breast milk and infant blood, and the possible adverse effects in the nursing infant. Suggested therapeutic alternatives to those drugs are provided, where appropriate. All data are derived from the scientific literature and fully referenced. A peer review panel reviews the data to assure scientific validity and currency.”