Skip to main content

Why Your Baby's First Feeding Assessment Matters


Hey mamas! As a nurse, postpartum doula and lactation specialist, I can't stress enough how important those first few days of feeding are for both you and your little one. Today, I want to chat about why getting a feeding assessment in those early days can make such a difference in your breastfeeding journey.

The First 72 Hours: Setting You Up for Success

Those first three days postpartum are golden for establishing breastfeeding. Your body is producing nutrient-rich colostrum, and your baby is learning how to coordinate sucking, swallowing, and breathing. This is why I offer home visits in the New Braunfels-San Marcos area – because I believe every mama deserves support right where she's most comfortable.

During these early assessments, we look at:

  • How your little one latches and transfers milk
  • Any signs of oral restrictions that might affect feeding
  • Your comfort level during feeds
  • Baby's positioning and overall body tension
  • Signs that baby is getting enough milk

A Holistic Approach to Oral Ties

One topic that often comes up during feeding assessments is oral ties (lip, tongue, etc.). While these can certainly impact feeding, I believe in taking a thorough, holistic approach before considering any interventions.

When assessing oral function, we look at:

  • Can baby form an effective seal?
  • How's their range of motion?
  • Are they transferring milk well?
  • Is feeding comfortable for you?

Sometimes, what looks like a tie might just need support from other modalities. This is where a team approach can be incredibly beneficial.

Your Support Team

There are several wonderful professionals who can support your feeding journey:

  • IBCLCs (International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants): Expert breastfeeding support and in-depth feeding assessments
  • Bodywork Specialists: Chiropractors, craniosacral therapists, and other specialists who help with body tension and positioning
  • Feeding Therapists: Occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists specializing in oral function and feeding skills

Virtual Support When You Need It 

Can't make it to an in-person assessment? I offer virtual support through I Help Moms at just $1.25 per minute. It's perfect for troubleshooting specific challenges, getting quick tips about positioning, or discussing sleep concerns. Sometimes a quick video call is all you need to get back on track! Click here  for my coaching link. 

Ready for In-home Lactation Support?

Visit my website's lactation support tab to learn more about my home services in the New Braunfels-San Marcos area. Whether you need an in-person assessment or prefer virtual support, I'm here to help you and your little one thrive on your feeding journey.

If you're looking for postpartum doula support, my team serves both Houston and the San Antonio-New Braunfels area to help you feel supported in the early weeks with your newborn.

Remember, mama – getting support early can make all the difference. You don't have to figure this out alone!

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

The Breastfeeding Teammate: A Dad's Guide to Supporting Mom and Bonding with Baby

Breastfeeding creates a beautiful bond between mother and baby, but the journey is so much richer when dads are actively involved. While the physical act of nursing may fall on mom's shoulders, fathers have countless opportunities to support this journey and build their own special connection with baby. Let's explore some meaningful ways dads can become essential partners in the breastfeeding experience. Get Educated (Without Being Told To) Nothing makes a nursing mom feel more supported than a partner who takes initiative to understand breastfeeding! Taking a class together before baby arrives shows you're in this as a team. Even if baby is already here, watching a few YouTube videos or reading articles about common challenges can transform a dad into a breastfeeding ally when he suggests, "Maybe try the football hold?" during a difficult latch. Master the Art of Silent Support There's something magical about a partner who can deliver a fresh water bottle, pl...
Post a Comment
Read more

How Long Should I Breastfeed? Evidence-Based Advice & Your Breastfeeding Goals

One of the most common questions new moms ask is, "How long should I breastfeed?" The answer isn't one-size-fits-all – it truly depends on your personal goals and circumstances. While professional health organizations offer recommendations, remember that your breastfeeding journey is uniquely yours. What the Experts Recommend The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises mothers to breastfeed for at least 12 months or longer if both mother and baby wish to continue. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend breastfeeding for up to two years or beyond. These guidelines highlight the continued benefits breast milk provides, even as your baby grows into toddlerhood. Your Choice, Your Journey Ultimately, how long you breastfeed is a deeply personal decision. As long as both you and your baby are happy and thriving, there is no "right" or "wrong" duration. Some mothers breastfeed for a few ...
Post a Comment
Read more

A Reassuring Presence in the Room: The Benefits of a Postpartum Doula

Navigating the early days of motherhood can feel both magical and overwhelming. Right in the middle of all the beautiful chaos - emotions, sleepless nights, and endless questions - a postpartum doula offers a calming, steady presence that can truly transform your experience. A Sense of Calm in the Unknown A postpartum doula is more than just a helper - they’re a reassuring presence in the room. Their experienced, compassionate support helps reduce anxiety and brings a sense of calm during those unpredictable moments. When you're feeling overwhelmed, knowing that someone is there to listen, answer your questions, and validate your feelings can make all the difference. Building Confidence and Trust In the midst of uncertainty, it’s common for new moms to question their instincts. A doula provides gentle guidance on baby care techniques - from soothing a fussy baby to helping you find the right breastfeeding position - empowering you to trust your maternal intuition. This supporti...
Post a Comment
Read more