How to become an IBCLC for OTs, SLPs, or PTs (2023)
How do you become a lactation consultant as a therapist? How long does it take to become a lactation consultant? Lactation is an emerging area of practice for occupational therapists, speech therapists, and physical therapists because of this I have had quite a few inquiries from therapists about how to become a lactation consultant. This blog will answer a lot of common questions.
Signs your newborn is hungry- Early feeding cues
Many moms wonder how much and how often to feed their babies. The best approach for a baby that is gaining well is to watch for signs of hunger. These signs might be subtle but if you tune into your baby's cues you get the hang of it. This post reviews early feeding cues.
Baby milestones by month
Babies develop on different timelines. Development happens on a continuum, so some babies will develop some skills earlier and some a little later. Here are some of the skills/behaviors that are likely to emerge each month.
Storing and Preparing Breastmilk: CDC Guidelines (2023)
Here are some helpful tips on how to prepare a bottle of breastmilk. There are several good ways to thaw frozen breast milk to minimize the loss of nutritional factors.
The best way to thaw breastmilk to is to place it in the refrigerator overnight. You can also run it under warm water, or set it in a bowl of water. It’s important to know that you should never heat breast milk in the microwave. This can create hot spots and burn your baby. Here are the bullet points of how to prepare a bottle of breastmilk.
What makes me different?
Looking for expert lactation and developmental support in Charleston? As an IBCLC and pediatric occupational therapist, I focus on infant development and feeding. With specialized training in oral motor skills, swallowing function, sensory difficulties, and bodywork like craniosacral therapy, I offer comprehensive support for breastfeeding and bottle-feeding dyads. From positioning guidance to addressing muscle imbalances, I provide therapies in-house to streamline your care. Say goodbye to multiple appointments and stress, and reach out for personalized assistance. Discover how my expertise can help you and your baby overcome feeding challenges.
Feeding is a whole body activity
Feeding is a whole body activity. Babies who have difficulties feeding often have difficulty moving effectively too. Sometimes it's actually what's happening in the body that is affecting feeds. These babies may have a head turning preference, asymmetries, body tension, or decreased strength. That's why getting a provider that addresses the whole body can be so helpful.
Now offering pediatric scale rentals
It’s a big day for Nurture and Nourish Services. I’m updating my scale, which means that my previous scale is now available for rent. I know a lot of families worry about their baby’s weight gain. Keeping track of trending weight can be a relief for concerned moms and dads.
This Seca 334 scale is practically new, its lightweight and its sensitive to 5g. It weighs in both lbs. oz. and Kg. If you are interested in keeping track of your baby’s trending weight, reach out today!
Nipple pain, Ouch!
Painful feeds can happen for so many reasons, shallow latch, tongue tie, oral motor dysfunction, a small or recessed jaw. If you are having nipple pain when breastfeeding, I have great guide for improving latch. Sign up for our newsletter and get a free resource on getting an optimal latch.
What causes painful breastfeeding?
Painful breastfeeding. Here are some potential causes, shallow latch, tongue tie, high palate, recessed jaw, and oral motor dysfunction. If your baby shows any signs of these it’s important to get help.
Breastfeeding Newborn Tips - Latch and Positioning (2024)
Have you ever struggled with painful breastfeeding? Getting a good latch is the first place to start with fixing painful feeds. Here are some indicators of what a good latch looks like!
Did you know that you might be pumping with the wrong sized flanges?
Here is a throwback of me taking a phenomenal course on flange sizing. A lot of people don’t know they are using the wrong sized flanges for pumping. This is important, because if you aren’t using the correct size for you…you aren’t pumping as effectively or as efficiently as you could be.
This is especially important if you have a lower milk supply, like I did. It’s also so important if you are going back to work and need to keep your supply up. If you are pumping with the flanges that came with your pump, there is a high chance they are not the right size for you. Most moms actually pump better with a smaller flange fit. If you have questions about pumping or are not happy with your milk output, consider reaching out for help. I offer individualized flange sizing to make sure that you are pumping efficiently, effectively and comfortably!
Celebrating World Breastfeeding week!
Happy World Breastfeeding Week! I just wanted to share an article about it!