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As a clinical nurse, you form an important link between new families and health care. Helping parents with breastfeeding is an important part of this job—but since breastfeeding education often focuses on breastfeeding, you may be left unprepared for the real challenges you face.
We are here to help you as you help families.
Systemic Barriers Matter—and You Can Help
Evidence shows that at the time of delivery, providers often make assumptions about who wants to breastfeed based on race, age, social status, etc.—and spend more time helping those they think are interested.
What this means for you: The family you visit may not have received appropriate, culturally appropriate support for breastfeeding. They may or may not be working with a few valid points.
But you can help. By developing your understanding of systemic barriers and personal preferences, you can provide appropriate, respectful care—ensuring that all families in your care receive the support they need.
A Good Latch Makes All the Difference
Nipple pain and soreness, baby weight loss or slow weight loss, low milk supply, even fussiness—these can all be signs that the baby is not latching on well.
Key features of a deep, active latch:
- Asymmetrical (the baby takes up more breast tissue below the nipple than above)
- Open mouth (140-160 degrees)
- lips parted, not be included in it
- Relaxed to parent, and instead of strong milk
Partners Are More Important Than You Think
A 2024 study found that parents whose partners felt better about breastfeeding were 13 times they are usually still breastfeeding after five months.
This is why partnering is important. Here’s how:
- Casting a wide net: “Friend” means anyone who has a role to play
- Recognize their importance
- Make your communication inclusive and welcoming
- Provide tangible ways they can help
- Encourage them to check with a breastfeeding parent about the type of support that is most needed
Effective Communication Is Important
When it comes to lactation support, how you connect is just as important as what you know.
Here are four consulting skills that make a difference:
- Use eye contact and speak freely
- Speak clearly and reflect the voices of the family
- Don’t rush – build a relationship
- Give information, not advice; and avoid sharing their thoughts
The best part? Counseling skills can be learned, and the more you practice, the more insightful they become.
There are many!
All of these topics—and more—are explored in depth Basics of Lactation for the Personal Health Nurse. This 8-part course connects the dots between what you already know and what families need, helping you strengthen your breastfeeding care one family at a time.