The Breastfeeding Medicine elective’s first week is composed of an independent study module (the Wellstart lactation curriculum) along with other relevant lactation resources and readings. During the remaining three weeks of the elective, the student will apply their knowledge in lactation clinics, breastfeeding classes, and new mother support groups in the community. This elective is expected to be 40 hrs/week for 4 weeks. This elective will benefit any future physician who expects to care for breastfeeding mothers and their infants in any capacity. While students destined for OB/Gyn, Pediatrics, or Family Medicine are a natural audience for this information, any medical student who desires greater knowledge and confidence in management of breastfeeding problems will benefit from this elective. The student will be required to obtain preceptor signoff and feedback on their assessment and management of specific breastfeeding problems. The student will also keep a portfolio of written journal entries documenting all patient encounters, as well as narrative reflections on outpatient learning experiences. The student will also identify a research question based on a patient encounter, search out answers to this question in the current literature, and create an evidence-based case presentation. The student will present this case at the OB/Gyn Maternal-Fetal Medicine noon conference during the rotation.

Note that this information may change at any time. Please visit the MyBU Student Portal for the most up-to-date course information.