SUNSHINE LACTATION AND BREASTFEEDING
Feeding Assessment
“Our wounds are often the openings into the best and most beautiful part of us.”
Happiness cannot be pursued; it must ensue.
What Is Feeding Assessment?
If you want to make sure breastfeeding goes well, getting a feeding check-up from a Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) can be really helpful. This check-up helps make sure that both mom and baby are feeding comfortably and properly. The CLC will watch how you feed your baby and give you tips to solve any problems that might come up.
How We Check How Babies Feed
When a breastfeeding expert (called a CLC) watches a mom and baby during feeding, they pay attention to a few things:
-
Latch:
They make sure the baby is attached to the breast correctly, covering a big part of the dark area around the nipple.
- Positioning: The counselor ensures that the mom and baby are sitting or lying in a way that helps milk flow well.
- Fixing Issues: If babies have problems like sore nipples or not getting enough milk, the CLC figures out what’s wrong and helps fix it.
Happiness cannot be pursued; it must ensue.
How Babies Get Milk
When a breastfeeding expert (called a CLC) observes a mom and baby while they are feeding, they focus on a few key things:
- Signs of Good Milk Transfer: They listen for signs that the baby is getting milk well, such as hearing the baby swallow often.
- How the Baby Suckles: They watch how the baby sucks on the breast to make sure the feeding is effective.
- Baby’s Satisfaction: They check if the baby seems full and happy, like when the baby relaxes and looks content.
How Often and How Long Babies Eat
When a breastfeeding expert (known as a CLC) helps parents with their babies, they consider:
- Baby’s Age and Growth: They give advice on how often and how long to feed the baby based on their age and development.
- Adjusting Feeding Times: If needed, the CLC helps change the baby’s feeding schedule to ensure they get enough milk.
- Feeding Duration: The CLC makes sure the baby is fed long enough to get all the milk they need.
Happiness cannot be pursued; it must ensue.
Problems Moms Can Face While Breastfeeding
When a breastfeeding expert (called a CLC) works with moms, they look out for a few common issues:
- Nipple Pain: They check if moms feel any pain while breastfeeding.
- Low Milk Supply: The counselor helps if moms don’t have enough milk.
- Latching Troubles: If babies struggle to latch onto the breast, the CLC gives tips.
- Boosting Milk Production: If there’s not enough milk, the CLC suggests ways to improve it.
Conclusion
A feeding assessment by a Certified Lactation Counselor helps make breastfeeding easier and more successful. They check things like how the baby latches on, how the baby is positioned, and how well milk is being transferred. They also help solve any problems you might have. If you face any issues or need help, don’t hesitate to ask for personalized support.
