Breastfeeding the Brave

High quality support plays a vital role in protecting breastfeeding and there are clear policies and training in the maternity and neonatal settings. But what happens when support is needed for infants and children in the separate paediatric setting where training and support lags behind?
Breastfeeding the Brave addresses this under-researched area, highlighting the needs and challenges of medically complex infants and children in paediatrics. Aspects of care related to sleep and bedsharing in hospital, responsive parenting and maternal mental health are also discussed. Drawing on novel research it explores the difficulties of feeding children with both common as well as serious, critical and life-limiting conditions.
Clinical topics covered include respiratory compromise, complex fluid and calorie needs, positioning challenges, low tone and altered reflexes, as well as changes to breastfeeding behaviour which together mean that sick children in paediatrics sometimes require a creative and unique approach to supporting lactation.
Drawing on 20 years’ experience working in paediatrics and lactation support, Lyndsey brings together the latest research and clinical knowledge in this field with stories of perseverance in breastfeeding by mothers of very sick children. The work is brought to life through stunning artwork by Leanne Pearce.
Supportive and informative to both lactation advocates as well as clinicians working in paediatrics, neonatology and the community, Breastfeeding the Brave bridges an important gap in lactation knowledge by drawing on dual expertise in paediatric clinical care and lactation, to bring a compassionate, family centred approach to supporting these children and their families.\nBy popular demand, to make this title more affordable and accessible to a wider audience, please note that this is the black and white image version of Breastfeeding the Brave. There are limited edition colour copies of the book available from www.lyndseyhookway.com