Breastfeeding Challenges
Every breastfeeding mum and baby face different challenges and having the right support to help you navigate these difficult times can have a significant impact on your breastfeeding experience. Some of the more common challenges I can help you manage include pain when breastfeeding, managing low milk supply, breast refusal, tongue tie assessment and referal, mastitis, milk blebs or blocked milk ducts, pumping difficulties, breastfeeding twins or triplets, inducing lactation, weaning, or you just aren't enjoying breastfeeding. If you are looking for someone whom you can talk through how you feel who will support you in an informed and non-judgemental manner however you choose to feed, I can bring my experience, knowledge and skills as well as a good listening ear and kind and caring support.
Painful breastfeeding
Common breastfeeding positions work for many women, but not all, and sometimes even when latch looks good, pain can continue. I will conduct a thorough breastfeeding assessment as well as discussion around your physical and emotional health history and work with you to alleviate pain and improve your breastfeeding experience.
Tongue Tie
Tongue tie (also known as tethered oral tissue or ankyloglossia) is a complex and controversial topic. Diagnosing a tongue tie is much more about the function of the tongue rather than what it looks like, as well as exploring it's effect on feeding. I usually recommend non-invasive management before referring for further treatment.
Blocked Ducts and Milk Blebs
Traditional management of blocked (compressed) ducts and milk blebs hasn't been backed by evidence and can actually lead to increased trauma and inflammation. Learn effective, gentle management for faster healing and prevention of re-occurence in order for you to continue breastfeeding without the discomfort of these conditions.
Low Milk Supply
Ensuring frequent and effective milk removal from the breast is always the starting point for managing low supply, however sometimes the cause can be more complex. With a thorough history and breastfeeding assessment, we can come up with a plan to optimise your milk production that feels manageable and sustainable for you.
Mastitis
The latest research tells us that Mastitis is unlikely to be caused by an infection that needs antibiotics, so up to date management strategies will be more effective and easily commenced. I can assist you to start effective treatment, explore the cause of the Mastitis and implement strategies to reduce the risk of re-occurence.
Breast Refusal
A thorough history and watching your baby's behaviour at the breast will guide management of breast refusal, however whatever the cause, encouraging your baby back to the breast will be in a gentle way that patiently allows them to breastfeed in their own time, while ensuring your baby is adequately fed and your milk supply protected.
