Love & Latch by Samar Mroue, RN, BSN, IBCLC

! This is such a huge topic in the baby world. Swaddling can be a great tool to soothe newborns, but there’s so much conflicting information. There are also SO many brands of swaddles on the market right now, and some are even embedded into the bassinet, forcing babies into super tight and restricted positions. Here are some facts about swaddling:... It is not a right of passage for babies: some hate swaddling, and that’s a perfectly valid reason not to swaddle. Neither of my kids were swaddled (only my first for a week because I thought I had to!) the AAP recommends transitioning out of swaddling by about 8 weeks of age (or even earlier) A newborn baby has had their hands as a source of comfort and sensory input throughout their womb life, they will continue to need the comfort of their hands after birth! There’s no reason to take their hands away from them (this could also apply to mittens ). We should NOT swaddle babies tightly with their arms pinned to their sides!!!! This is an unnatural position for baby, and can cause tension in their shoulders, arms, chest, and even hips. Over the chest or up by their shoulders are preferred positions. Always make sure your baby is not too warm in a swaddle as it may make baby sleep longer than they should (remember that waking is a survival mechanism for humans). Always unwrap Baby when feeding, to prevent overheating, and promote a better position at breast. Give Baby as much non-swaddled time throughout the day as they are swaddled. This will ensure enough movement, and will allow the reflexes to integrate better. If your baby needs to be swaddled past the newborn stage, there are things that can help! How this relates to breastfeeding? A newborn who’s too warm may not wake as often as they should, this could lead to dehydration, issues with weight gain, or a problem with milk supply I’ve seen many babies start latching poorly at 2 & 3 months of age due to over-swaddling, and especially in the tight arms down position. This is due to all the tension building up in the body, leading to a tight jaw and mouth as well. Do you have any questions on swaddling? See more

Here’s to the strongest women I know, and the ones I miss the most Swipe for some Then & Now fun! Happy International Women’s Day! @ Beirut, Lebanon

! It’s also NORMAL for you to respond to their wakings, by nursing, cuddling, shushing, rocking, swaying, patting, (insert whatever method you like to comfort your child with), etc.... Infants and children go through many many sleep changes. They often happen at predictable times, but may just happen out of nowhere too.... Here are some reasons why your baby may start waking at night again, even after months of sleeping long stretches: teething growth spurt mental leap a new milestone (they want to practice!) separation anxiety (checking on you!) a survival mechanism under stimulation overstimulation missing you after a day at work adjusting to a big change too hot too cold hungry thirsty.... Did I forget anything? Whatever the cause, responding to your child’s waking with your comforting presence shows them how to regulate and fall back asleep, through their interaction with you. What I’m trying to say is that Self soothing is not a concept that infants and young children are biologically capable of, so we need to stop expecting them to act like adults. Babies are also incapable of manipulating, so each and every one of their waking is a need waiting to be met. Also, you know what? Boob pretty much solves every single one of those issues, so if that works for you, just keep on boobin’ See more

! IBCLC stands for International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, which is what my job is, basically a boob job My dream for this world is for every new parent to have access to skilled lactation care, regardless of their age, skin color or financial situation, preferably starting before birth. This means, all breasts are examined BEFORE birth, and medical history is evaluated to anticipate and educate on any possibly arising issues. Then every dyad ...is seen soon after birth, and help is provided as needed, before complications start. Ahh, for this to come true, means every parent would make an informed decision about feeding their baby, and exclusive breastfeeding rates would increase, leading to healthier children and a healthier planet. One can dream! Today is meant to celebrate the work lactation consultants do to support parents in their feeding journeys. If you received support from an IBCLC that you love, today is the day to send them a note, write them a review, or just check in and say hi. We love love love to hear updates from parents and babies we met along the way! See more

? We all have a frenulum under our tongue. A frenulum is the little piece of tissue that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth. In some cases, this tissue is too tight (not stretchy) or too short, which leads to a restriction in the tongue movement and function. This is when we call it a tongue tie, ankyloglossia, or tethered oral tissue. A normal tongue should be able to elevate to the roof of the mouth freely, move side to side in the mouth, ...and stick out past the lips. It also should have a wave-like motion when baby is at the breast to facilitate milk transfer. A restricted tongue, with a tight or short frenulum (or both), will not be able to do all of that. This certainly will cause issues with breastfeeding, that can range from a painful latch, to air gulping, gassiness, poor weight gain, a complete inability to breastfeed and so much more... But breastfeeding problems are not the only issue tongue ties cause. A functional tongue is essential to the proper growth of the mouth and skull, which means it can lead to restricted room for teeth. It is also essential for proper breathing, eating solids, and speaking properly. Not to mention that a tight tongue can lead to tension in the rest of the body, leading to structural issues as well. For those reasons, addressing oral restrictions early is essential! For clarification, the mere presence of a frenulum does not indicate a tongue tie. It is the tongue that matters. Working with a team of providers who are knowledgeable about oral restrictions is crucial. The team will help you work on restoring function, releasing tensions, and advise if a procedure is necessary. Both of my kids had tongue ties, but only one needed a release. Did your baby have one? See more

! On this occasion, here’s a throwback to some of the donations I made to the @mothersmilkbanksj back when my milk production was still in full swing! As for many parents, pumping was an essential part of my journey.... With my first child, I was working full time as an RN, and away from home 16 hours a day, 3 days a week. My pump was my bestie for 18 months! Without it, I wouldn’t have made it to past 2 years of nursing. With my second, the kiddo in the pictures, pumping was how I was able to establish and maintain a supply, while dealing with the pain (literal and emotional) of tongue and lip ties, the releases, and all the re-learning that comes afterwards. Once our troubles were resolved, and even though J was fully on the breast with no supplementation, I continued to pump once a day as my way to relieve my anxiety around my milk supply. When we decided I wasn’t going back to work (and even a bit before that), I started donating all that milk. Over the 18 months, I made a few informal donations as well as a few formal ones to the Mother’s Milk bank of San Jose. Today at Breastfeeding Brunch, we talked about how much pumping sucks (literally and figuratively), it has always been such a love hate relationship for me. I salute all the exclusive pumpers out there, I truly admire your dedication! So tell me, has pumping been a part of your journey as well? See more

Watch how Jude helps me demonstrate what a breast sandwich is, and how to be use this technique to make latching easier!

When #mom performs the lip and tongue tie assessment like a boss!!!!! This mama was so determined to find the source of all the trouble her and her little guy were going through. Even from halfway across the world, after 3 months of struggles, we were able to determine together that J’s oral anatomy was severely impacting his oral function. What that means, is basically that his tongue and lip ties were causing his mouth (and his whole body) not to function the way it needs ...to, in order for breastfeeding to work. Tongue ties cause a wide range of issues, including painful breastfeeding for the parent, increased gulping of air leading to reflux symptoms, increased fussiness, under supply and oversupply of milk for parent, poor weight gain for baby, and so much more. Wherever you are in the world, you don’t have to figure this out alone! Virtual appointments make getting help much more accessible. I always tell parents that their hands are my hands and the phone or camera are my eyes. I will guide you and coach you, and empower you to find out what the root causes of your issues are.

Anyone else get emotional around birthdays? This guy turned 4 today! He’s my youngest and last baby, and his birthday, even more so than his brother’s, brings out emotions in me that I can’t explain. I think it’s the feeling of never getting to experience that age, or that milestone, or that cute mispronounced word, etc... ever again. ... And you know what, I think this was part of the reason I’ve been silent on here for the last 2 weeks. Reflecting and savoring every last bit of my 3 year old! But enough about that, let me just tell how amazing this little guy is! He’a been my companion for the last 4 years, he remembers where I misplace stuff, he gives me hugs when I’m upset, I can easily talk him out of bad decisions, he’s an old soul with the most bubbly energetic happy personality I’ve ever met! Oh and he still nurses to sleep but more on that in another post about why I’m so ready to stop! By the way, swipe for his most favorite present he got this year, a kids set from @opinelusa, coz he loves calling himself my #littlesouschef @ Newbury Park

Before you call me crazy for posting this, just hear me out. When my first son was born, my mothering instincts immediately kicked in. I was carrying him, nursing him, cleaning him, caring for him... but I also found myself googling is it normal that I’m not in love with my baby?... And is it normal that I’m not bonding with my baby? It was such a relief to me when I found out it was actually as normal as being totally smitten with your new baby, and that ALL feelings are valid and normal. Looking back, it totally makes sense. As a new parent, most of us are completely overwhelmed, some of us may be grieving our desired birth, some of us may be having breastfeeding difficulties, or grieving over that too, not to mention postpartum blues, or even a Post Partum Mood disorder. In the midst of all this, as a first time mom, and as a person who has never fallen in love at first sight, I felt like I really had to get to know my baby first... as time went on, our bond started growing, my heart started growing, and as he started becoming more interactive with me, my feelings also fell into place. The reason why I share all this with you all, is because it may save one of you from having to google that in the middle of the night! New mama, I see you! Your feelings are valid no matter what! **** If you’re having a hard time caring for your baby, or find yourself having negative thoughts about yourself or your baby, please reach out for help! Your OB, lactation consultant, doula,... are all able to guide you to the proper resources**** See more

The cross cradle hold is the one I recommend the most when a baby is having trouble latching on their own. It gives you the ability to adjust both your baby and your breast to help them latch more deeply. Have you ever tired this position? Did it work for you? ... #crosscradle #breastfeeding #breastfeedingtips #yournippleswillthankyou #ibclc #lactation #lactationconsultant #loveandlatch #loveandlatchSM #loveandlatchlactation

When it rains and the grass is too wet to host your peacefully distanced CPR class, you improvise Literally everything I did this year had to involve some form of improvisation! In a way, it’s a blessing in disguise as it made me more resilient and more open to change. If you’re in need to learn this life saving skill, I offer distanced in person or virtual CPR classes. @ Peppertree Park

Bring your baby, your snacks, and come brunch with us virtually tomorrow and every Wednesday at 12:00 pm PST (California Time)! Breastfeeding brunch has been expanding weekly. Last week, we even had a parent from Kenya join us! Click the link in the event below to fill out the consent if you haven’t already, and the link will be sent to your email. Come once or come every week, either way, you’re welcome. ... PS. How do you like my setup? https://facebook.com/events/s/virtual-breastfeeding-brunch/304348300666299/?ti=icl #virtualsupport #breastfeedingsupport #comeasyouare #ibclc #loveandlatchlactation #loveandlatchSM #loveandlatch

Little Miss E is such a champ and has come a long way! When I first saw her 2 weeks ago, she was only able to take 8ml of breastmilk from her momma’s breast (that’s about a quarter oz guys!) Her amazing momma worked tirelessly with her, and surrounded herself with the right support and team of professionals, so her and her baby could thrive! ... Miss E gained 1 lb in the last week, 1 POUND!!! Only through direct nursing, no more bottles no more supplements. I am so incredibly honored to be a part of this momma/daughter team’s journey, and be watching them grow together and find their groove. #ifyouneedmecallme #icometoyourhome #yournippleswillthankyou #lactation #lactationconsultant #ibclc #breastfeeding #homevisitibclc #venturacountyibclc #LAcountyibclc #loveandlatch #loveandlatchlactation #loveandlatchSM

A few ideas for nursing in public. Which one is your favorite? I liked to combine the 2 shirt method and the carrier for feeding on the go. Remember that practice makes perfect, I remember practicing at home, sometimes in front of a mirror when my first baby was still tiny. ... Personally, I took me a few weeks to feel confident enough to feed anywhere other than in the car. #breastfeeding #breastfeedinginpublic #breastfeedinginstyle #nursinginpublic #lactation #lactationconsultant #ibclc #loveandlatchSM #loveandlatch #loveandlatchlactation

File this under information you didn’t know you needed Fun fact: breast development starts while baby is still in the womb, but the breast doesn’t become fully functional until lactation begins. The hormones that are secreted during pregnancy and lactation, help the breast fully develop and mature. ... Here are the changes you may experience: (you may experience some of these before even finding out you’re pregnant): Breast growth and enlargement Tenderness or soreness Nipple sensitivity Darkening of nipple and areola (the skin around your nipple) Darkened veins along your breasts Small glands along the surface of the areolas (aka Montgomery tubercles) may become raised bumps. : Some of the soreness and sensitivity will ease Breasts may feel heavier as milk ducts are developing. Colostrum is being produced, you may or may not leak some, or see dried yellowish discharge on your nipples. : Nipples become larger and more pronounced Nipples and areolas may darken more breasts may become itchy due to the expanding skin. Please keep in mind that these changes are different from one individual to the other. And while some people may experience all the them, some may only see a few, or experience milder changes. In some cases, no changes will be visible, and while that could be normal for some, a prenatal assessment with a skilled lactation consultant could help determine any risk factors and increase your chances for your maximum milk production. See more

If you’re in the US with insurance, your lactation visits SHOULD be covered. It’s a violation of the ACA for insurance companies to deny your claim. I’m so proud of Karolina Ochoa - IBCLC Baby Nurse for fighting the fight with her families!

That’s one less purchase you have to make! You’re welcome #nursingpillow #breastfeeding #makeyourselfcomfortable #yournippleswillthankyou #loveandlatchSM #loveandlatchlactation #loveandlatch #IBCLC #myIBCLCtoldmeso

There! I said it! This is a choice you CAN make for your family. So, if nursing your baby to sleep works for you, shut your ears to chatter and enjoy it. PS. If it doesn’t work for you, and you figured out another way to comfort your baby at bedtime, then kudos to you, because that’s ok too!!... #breastsleeping #breastfeedingtosleep #breastfeeding #ibclc #lactationconsultant #loveandlatch #loveandlatchSM #loveandlatchlactation #normalizebreastsleeping

Home visits make me giddy I’m so happy to be doing them again. Today I had the pleasure to play with a 2 month old baby girl, who couldn’t stop talking to me, even with my mask on. What a way to come back to seeing babies in person. Thank you baby girl for making my day! If you’re in my local area and think you need a home visit, please get in touch with me for scheduling. ... Meanwhile, I’m still offering virtual consults from anywhere in the world, and I can even accommodate the time difference happily. #IBCLC #lactationconsultant #sucktraining #breastfeeding #lactation #homevisitibclc #virtualsupport #loveandlatchSM #loveandlatchlactation #loveandlatch #venturacountyibclc #lacountyibclc

I’ve been away from posting for the past few days. I always feel that it’s so hard for me to post and be present here when I’m in a funk. There’s nothing wrong, just going through the motions like everyone else. ... So here’s my check in post. Say hi, and tell me how you’re doing today, this week, this month... PS. My sister had this illustration made for me by @cari_q_ last summer when our whole family was visiting Beirut. My sister always knows how to make my heart happy! And that trip to Beirut last summer will forever be an unforgettable one, especially with all the current events happening now making it impossible to visit again soon. The second picture is the original #portraitpainting #breastfeeding #lactationconsultant #ibclc #normalizebreastfeeding #breastfeedingportraits #loveandlatch @ Thousand Oaks, California

I have a love/hate relationship with teaching infant CPR. It’s such an important skill to learn, especially when you’re still pregnant, and then again in all stages of life. But being a person who loves to celebrate life, an advocate of babies, and a support person, it‘s hard to possibly trigger any anxiety for new parents. ... for that reason, I try to make it as fun and interesting as possible! Thank you @fit4mom_ventura for letting me join this fun group of mamas tonight, to teach them this life saving skill. I was so excited to be teaching an in-person class again, that I almost forgot to tell them what an awesome lactation consultant I am Good thing my friend @geodoula143 was there to back me up! If you are interested in learning CPR, for any age, and any level of care, you know where to find me #infantcpr #fit4baby #fit4mom #lactationconsultant #ibclc #loveandlatch #venturacountyibclc #venturacountymoms @ Ventura, California

!!! A newborn who’s refusing to latch is a newborn who’s unable to latch, so if you’ve been given the advice to keep waiting until baby is hungry, then absolutely disregard that advice! A starving baby can turn into a dehydrated baby who’s doesn’t even have energy to latch. Similarly, if your newborn is too sleepy to nurse frequently (at least every 2-3 hours in the early days), getting feeds into them will help them perk up and become more ac...tive. Whatever the scenario, these steps help you on your way to a healthy breastfeeding journey: : spoon, syringe or cup Are preferred. Expressed milk is first choice, donor milk or artificial milk are other options. : hand express, start early and often. If you’re not sure how often, that’s where the IBCLC comes in. Be sure to check my video on hand expression for the proper technique. Use a pump after hand expressing if available to stimulate the breasts even more. : Take your top off, undress baby down to the diaper, and just put them on your bare chest. It doesn’t have to be feeding time to do this! there’s no limit on how often and how long you can do skin to skin. There’s also no expiry date on when this stops working. Skin to skin is the mother of all reset buttons, whenever there’s a problem with breastfeeding. : while it’s very important for your pediatrician to be involved in assessing the situation, I can almost guarantee you that you will get inappropriate feeding advice from a physician, unless they also hold some lactation credentials. So if #breastfeeding or human milk feeding is a priority to you, call an IBCLC as soon as possible. If you’re having trouble with latching your newborn, (or any age baby), give me a call. Even through virtual appointments, I am able to support you through the situation and guide you into finding a solution! See more