How will I be able to get my baby to latch effectively?
Like all mothers, women with SCI may experience common breastfeeding challenges such as:
- babies who have difficulty latching/feeding due to issues like prematurity, tongue tie, or jaundice
- mothers with inverted nipples, infection (clogged ducts, mastitis) or an overabundance of milk
There are also additional considerations specific to SCI that can cause some challenges in latching such as sensory changes, motor effects, and fatigue.
Be aware that sensory changes in your body caused by SCI could affect your ability to breastfeed. If you have decreased nipple sensation, it may lead to altered let-down reflex and impaired milk production as well as limit the ability to recognize poor latch. Visual signs during latching, feeding, and immediately after the feeding can help mothers identify a good latch. Use a mirror or have someone check the latch during the feeding and the breast for abrasions after feeding. During feeding, you should notice that your baby is changing the rate of sucking and appears to be swallowing. After feeding, you should check the condition of your nipples and if your baby appears to be satisfied.
Be aware that strength and ability to move your upper extremities could impact your ability to breastfeed. Lack of mobility in your arms/hands, spasms, and impaired trunk strength or balance can affect how well the baby is positioned to access the breast, to get and keep a good latch that does not injure your nipples, and to reposition when needed. If you have poor hand function it may be difficult to express your milk for drainage to prevent infection (clogged ducts and mastitis). Ineffective or infrequent feeding can also be a cause of inadequate milk production. See positioning and aids section below for ideas during breastfeeding.
Be aware that fatigue is common in people with SCI and could impact your ability to breastfeed successfully. Having a new baby is intense and requires around the clock attention and care for everyone. For some mothers with SCI, your own requirements for care may conflict with or delay the feeding times of your baby. You may want to create a feeding plan with support from your spouse, partner, family, or aide to assist in the feeding schedule. Make sure you continue to assess the latching, feeding, and breast health for as long as you decide to breastfeed. Remember that there is education and support out there for you if you need it. See section below on community supports.
Recommendations:
- Pay attention to your baby’s quality of latching and swallowing during breastfeeding, particularly if you have decreased sensation in your nipples and breast area.
- Examine your nipples (either on your own or ask a care provider to assist you) before and after breastfeeding to look for nipple distortion.
- Consult with your health care team if you are having a hard time positioning your baby to breastfeed. They may be able to assist or can refer you to a knowledgeable health care provider such as an occupational therapist or physiotherapist to help you explore assistive aids.
- If you are experiencing fatigue that interferes with your activities and breastfeeding, ask for the support of health care provider (e.g., occupational therapist) for suggestions and energy saving recommendations.