amanda, another one to fix for consistency

An infant feeding therapist can help your baby improving feeding skills.  Sucking should be reflexive for a baby. Feeding should be enjoyable, not a wrestling match.

 

You might think feeding is 'fine' when it could be better. Signs that feedings are not going well: 

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• baby coughs, chokes or gags while feeding

• baby chomps on the breast or bottle

• baby relatches repeatedly throughout the feeding

• feedings last 'forever' and baby rarely seems satisfied

• baby is restless at the breast or bottle requiring frequent breaks

• baby is a noisy feeder, clicking, slurping, gulping, panting and fussing

• mother experiences pain or pinched nipples

• mother has repeated plugged ducts and mastitis

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This isn't normal. It might be common, but it is not normal.

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An evaluation with a skilled lactation consultant can identify the underlying issue(s) and provide a plan to make feedings more enjoyable.

 

Oral exercises can improve sucking skills.  Teether toys can improve feeding skills and help with a smooth transition for starting solids. 

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