Best Breastfeeding Resources

Late last week my oldest, dearest friend gave birth to her second baby. Like many new mums, the early days of breastfeeding haven't been without their challenges. So by way of welcoming baby Christian earthside, here are some breastfeeding resources that I've found especially useful, both for myself and for my mums.

1. The Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA)

The ABA is a major source of support for breastfeeding mothers, Australia wide. Their website is a wealth of information - check out their index of articles for detailed, accurate information on literally everything to do with breastfeeding newborns, babies and toddlers. Whether it's a supply issue, attachment problem, breastfeeding in public, or returning to work - you will find help here. The ABA also run free counselling services providing over-the-phone assistance for specific problems. Mothers can also access support groups in their area, enrol in breastfeeding classes during pregnancy, or purchase breastfeeding items via Mothers Direct.

2. Australian Lactation Consultants Association (ALCA)

While midwives, GP's and paediatricians may be able to provide basic breastfeeding advice, it might surprise you to learn that their training only covers the fundamentals of human lactation. Lactation Consultants have specific, specialised training in all aspects of human lactation. They are the breastfeeding experts! Their knowledge and experience in breastfeeding will far exceed that of any other health professional - so if you're having problems it is worth cutting to the chase and seeking out an LC. Many will visit you in your home, which has the added bonus of them actually seeing you feed your baby, instead giving advice in a more general context. You can locate an LC near you via the ALCA site.

3. UNICEF: Breastcrawl Video

This video shows infant-led attachment to the breast immediately after birth. Many of my clients are now asking to be supported in this after immediately after birthing. We know that there are many benefits to the establishment of breastfeeding in not separating mother and baby in the first few hours after birth, and in keeping disturbances to a minimum. Hospital routines such as weighing and measuring baby, administering Hep B and Vit K, and physical exams can be left until at least an hour or two after birth to give you and your baby this precious time - mostly it's just a matter of letting the hospital know that this is your preference in your birth plan, and having your partner or doula remind them of this after your baby is born.



4. Kellymom

Kellymom is one of the most comprehensive and authoritive sources of breastfeeding information and articles online. The site is maintained by Kelly Bonyata, an international board certified lactation consultant (IBCLC). Kellymom also offers an excellent collection of free handouts on breastfeeding and related issues.


5. WHO Child Growth Standards

The growth charts used to assess normal growth in babies are derived from data obtained from formula fed infants. Babies who are fed formula tend to gain weight differently to breastfed babies - and comparisons between the two can lead to the mothers of healthy breastfed infants being told their baby is not gaining enough weight. This often leads to weaning, or the introduction of supplementary formula. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has now released revised infant growth charts based on the normal growth of breastfed infants. These charts are slowly finding their way into use within the mainstream medical community.

Labels: breastfeeding, video