The link between birth type and breastfeeding
Midwifes, lactation specialists and women who have experienced similar problems are great to obtain advice from. This combination of advice frequently results in success, however this is not always achievable. What we envisage being a simple part of bringing up a child, can turn into a tedious, painful and exhausting experience.
Giving Birth – How a baby enters the world can impact a mother’s ability to breastfeed
While considering birth options it’s important to consider the short and long term impact of any decision made. Birth can be very unpredictable and even with meticulous planning, these plans often ‘go out of the window’, due to unexpected complications. Any birth comes with risks, even straight forward vaginal births. It is important mothers prepare physically, mentally and emotionally for the variation in outcomes that can occur. Every mother and baby are different, making every birth individual. What is right for one mother-baby combination, may not be for another.
The Research when Considering Birthing Options
Researchers Forster and McLachlan (2007), have brought to our attention that C-section has been associated with:-
Decreased breastfeeding on the day of birth
Delayed onset lactation
Lower levels of breastfeeding after leaving hospital
Miller et al (2009), noted that mechanical extraction of a baby’s head with forceps or vacuum can lead to:-
Trauma of the baby’s jaw and neck
Prevention of proper movement for breastfeeding
Torvaldsen (2006), demonstrated that out of 1289 labouring women, those given epidurals or general anaesthetic opioid’s were:-
Less likely to fully breastfeed their infants in the few days after birth
More likely to stop breastfeeding in the first 24weeks
Although mothers frequently feel pressured, and unable to breastfeed, there is often a simple explanation to their problems. For instance a baby who cannot latch properly, may have a mechanical issue opening his/her mouth wide enough. This can mean it’s not possible for the baby to take in enough breast tissue, limiting the ability to seal and create enough suction, often results in a clicking sound. Chiropractic has been shown to be effective in treating and resolving some baby’s neurological and musculoskeletal problems, relating to breastfeeding.
Doctor of Chiropractic, Karen Habershon frequently works with paediatrics (babies). Many people don’t associate Chiropractors with paediatrics, however they have some fantastic results. Karen uses specifically tailored, gentle Chiropractic techniques for babies. Treatment pressure would never exceed that used to test how ripe a piece of fruit is (very different to treating an adult!). Techniques include cranial therapy and touch & hold techniques.
Many Mother-baby combinations end up struggling to breastfeed. Getting your baby assessed for musculoskeletal causes can be a good investment.
Our experienced Chiropractor Karen will use appropriate gentle treatment techniques. Please contact KH Chiropractic & Sports Massage Aldgate / Liverpool Street to book your baby for an assessment
Call: 0203 633 0565
Email: info@khchiropractic.com
