Getting good advice and support

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When it comes to feeding our babies, I know as both a mother and a health professional what a real difference the right advice and good support makes, at a time when you are feeling tired, recovering from childbirth and adapting to parenthood.  Please see my blog page with tips on how family and friends can support you. 

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Reassurance and practical tips

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It may be that you just require reassurance and even some practical tips to help you and your baby on your way.  Remember, breastfeeding is a skill that is nurtured over time and it is common to feel a little unsure of yourself at first, as you and your baby are learning about each other. 

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Positioning and Attachment support

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If your nipples are hurting when you are breastfeeding, this is usually because your baby is not latching onto your breast properly.  This is not uncommon and in the majority of cases, can be easily resolved with good positioning and attachment techniques.  It is important that your baby is latched on well so that the milk comes easily and does not start to back up in the breast with continued feeds.  

 

There are some newborns however, who find it difficult to latch onto the breast and feed well, even with a good positioning and attachment technique.  This may be the case if a baby has been born prematurely, is uncomfortable after a difficult birth, tongue movement is restricted, or your nipples are inverted.  With my help,  we can work through strategies to help your baby transition onto the breast. 

 

Establishing a good milk supply

 

You may be having concerns about your milk supply.  Most mothers are able to make enough milk provided their baby is breastfeeding well and often.  The more milk your baby takes from you, the more your breasts will produce, through a process of demand and supply.  If you have experienced a dip in your milk supply, I can certainly help you with this.  

 

A small percentage of mothers will not be able to produce enough milk.  This is usually due to insufficient glandular tissue (the milk making tissue in the breast) or a hormonal issue that could affect milk supply, e.g. hypothyroidism and polycystic ovaries.  If you are a mother who has had breast surgery, your ability to lactate and breastfeed will depend on the type of surgery you have had and the procedure undertaken.  Many mothers who have had breast surgery are able to produce milk and breastfeed, but this is best assessed when your baby is born and on your breast.  

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Whatever concerns or difficulties you may be having, please do get in touch. I would love to help you. 

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