GOLD Speakers

Dr. Zinal Shah, MBBS,DCH,IBCLC

• Country: India

Biography:

Dr Zinal Unadkat Shah, MBBS, DCH, IBCLC, is a Pediatrician, lactation consultant, and neonatologist based in Mumbai, India. Her hybrid practice encompasses three hospitals, a private clinic and virtual consultation to mother-baby dyads from all over the world. Beyond clinical practice, Dr Zinal collaborates with the government and international bodies such as UNICEF and the Breastfeeding Promotion Network of India (Maharashtra) to address the challenges of breastfeeding, infant care, and malnutrition at its grass root level.

Though she exclusively breastfed her daughter when she had major speech issues and gait issues she realised that her daughter had a posterior tongue tie undiagnosed and got her release and Myofunctional therapy done at her age 20 Tongue tie became so close to her heart that she is now working in capacity of paediatrician to identify tongue ties early to prevent long term consequences in children.

Driven by the recognition of inadequate lactation support available in her country, she has dedicated herself to ensuring that mothers receive breastfeeding assistance and education. She has been a practising IBCLC for the last 15 years and was amongst the first few to be certified in India. Her multifaceted work in lactation management spans various settings, including NICU, labour rooms, postpartum ward, and post -surgical intensive care units.

Assuming the role of India Coordinator for the IBLCE in 2019 till 2024 Dr Zinal has played a pivotal role in cultivating a robust community of lactation consultants across India. Her efforts have not only increased accessibility to lactation services but have also deepened the nation's understanding and appreciation of this crucial aspect of maternal and child health.