This post is a note of thanks to all the wonderful families who have had me back for 2nd and 3rd babies, and who have referred me on to their families and friends! I have had a streak of these over the last few months, and I greatly appreciate seeing these beautiful growing families again, and getting to know those in your networks. This is essential for a small business such as 4th Trimester Baby to grow, so from the bottom of my heart, thank you!
Bodywork!
I have had the pleasure of chatting with some wonderful chiropractors who work with babies, and have learned a lot about how beneficial this can be for a variety of reasons! "Tension" is one of the most common things I observe in babies who are struggling to latch at breast. Sometimes it shows up in neck and shoulders, sometimes in hips, sometimes assymetries in head shape, face, ability to turn head left and right easily, use of arms and legs, and more! Birth is quite an event for both the parent and the baby, so it is not surprising if one or both of you have a "tweak" that adds an extra layer of challenge. I love to share rhythmic movement exercises to do at home with baby, and will often share referrals to bodyworkers to help optimize baby's ability at breast. So, if your little one, for example, snuggles in comfortably on the right side but cries and turns away on the left, it is possible their bodies can benefit from a little extra TLC in the form of bodywork!
Low Milk Supply: Digging a little deeper...
Unfortunately, I have met with many families recently struggling with low milk supply. I always start with back to basics...milk removal 8+ times per 24 hrs by baby and/or pump, maybe an herbal supplement for a boost. But many families end up needing to dig a little deeper, checking in with their providers about bloodwork or possible medications. A few of the conditions that come up that may require some extra TLC are things like anemia, thyroid issues, PCOS, insulin resistance, breast surgeries etc. Every family and every journey is different, and while some do make decisions to combo feed, or switch completely to donor milk or formula (for very valid personal reasons!!) please know that we can always dig a little deeper if desired!
