‘Typically, the number of women who start breastfeeding in the UK is high, sitting at around 80%, however this number plummets after a couple of weeks…’
‘Typically, the number of women who start breastfeeding in the UK is high, sitting at around 80%, however this number plummets after a couple of weeks. We know this is due to a number of factors including a lack of local support… inconsistent messaging from healthcare professionals, social stigma and lack of family support.’
Royal College of Paediatrics & Childhealth, Nov 18
Having worked with mums both in both a professional and a voluntary capacity over the last 10 years, I have observed how very important breastfeeding is to the physical and emotional well-being of mum and baby. Breastfeeding is so much more than providing milk for your baby. It offers a unique bonding opportunity. Many mothers are aware of just how important breastfeeding is but often give up, particularly if they do not get good, consistent support. Locally, we are very fortunate that there is plenty of good, free help available at the numerous baby café’s in the Borough. However, many mums find it can be useful to have a 1-1 session at home, particularly if there are complications such as concerns with weight or tongue tie – or if the feeding just isn’t as straightforward as expected.
My Lactation work includes:
Private 1-1 sessions
Workshops (by arrangement)
I offer antenatal workshops for up to 4 couples or cover a particular issue for a small group of mum’s on request
St Peter’s church, Lactation support at the Mum and Baby group
Monday 1pm – 3pm
Shaftesbury Hall, Deptford Breastfeeding group (Volunteer)
Tuesday 10am – noon (term time)
Lewisham Hospital, Neonatal ward (Volunteer)
Thursday 10am – 2pm (term time)
I do home visits in and around the Brockley area (10 mile radius) offering support with a range of common (and not so common) problems including: antenatal support, cracked and sore nipples, thrush, engorgement, mastitis, addressing concerns with weight gain, transition support, for example, weaning or returning to work.
A first visit can take up to 2 hours. This enables me to take a thorough case history, observe a feed and work with you to develop strategies that might work for you. Most problems can usually be addressed with one session and telephone support for a week or so after. I send a summary of what has been discussed with a feeding plan if necessary by email within 24 hours to both you and your GP.
If you are interesting in booking a consultation and have any questions, do get in touch.
If you would like to book a 1-1 consultation, please fill in this online form and I will call to arrange a convenient time to visit. Whatever stage you are at, I’d love to help.
Packages
I am registered as a practitioner with Peppy Health. If your employer offers Peppy Healthcare you maybe able to claim for Lactation services through this scheme. I am also a qualified homeopath. Should you like to explore how homeopathy can support you through your breastfeeding journey, I can incorporate this into a Lactation consultation for an additional fee of £30.
Antenatal
Up to 90 minutes £120
You may be a new mum, a mum who has never breastfed – or a mum who has struggled to breastfeed successfully before. During this session we can discuss:
– Feeding goals
– Explore attitudes and concerns
– Preparation for breastfeeding – if the pregnancy is going to plan, this may simply be discussion what to expect for ‘normal’ breastfeeding.
– If there is a particular issue such as predicted prematurity, we can discuss things to consider to protect breastfeeding until your baby is able to take the breast.
Antenatal with a postnatal follow up
Up to 90 mins antenatal plus up to 90 mins postnatal £170
As above but with a postnatal consultation to really get breastfeeding off to a good start. This will involve discussing any concerns, observing a feed, and help with position & attachment (if necessary). We can develop a plan to resolve any issues that you might be experiencing. During the first few days after baby is born, it is not unusual for baby to develop a bit of jaundice or for concerns to be raised about glucose levels. Generally these issues should not be reasons to jeopardise breastfeeding. I offer a trouble shooting telephone call if support is needed before discharge from the hospital.
SOS support
Up to 2 hours consultation £130
Sometimes breastfeeding just doesn’t go to plan. If you are at your wits end, I offer support to help with many common breastfeeding problems such as thrush, mastitis, cracked nipples, or tongue tie referral.
Transition consultation
60 minute consultation £75
Many mothers want support with transitions – for example weaning your baby onto solids, returning to work or ending your breastfeeding journey in a kind and gentle way when the time is right for you and your baby.
Premature babies
90 minute consultation £90
Sometimes it is necessary to deliver babies before their due date and this can have implications for breastfeeding, particularly if this is something you were not expecting. Medical interventions are, of course necessary and life-saving – but can interfere with establishing breastfeeding. The benefits of breastmilk for any baby cannot be underestimated but for a premature baby, breastmilk can literally be life-saving. I can discuss practical strategies to help you provide breastmilk for your baby and offer emotional support.