I’m a French Maternity Nurse in London, fluent in English and French and have worked with families from all sorts of backgrounds. No matter what language you speak or what your cultural identity is, one thing will be the same for every mother – the need to feed your baby. As a maternity nurse I often help mothers to make informed decisions about how they will feed their baby, but it doesn’t always go to plan. Yes, breastfeeding is the most natural, nutritional and efficient way to feed a baby but that doesn’t mean it’s the easiest.
A Maternity Nurse and much more
I’m a maternity nurse but my role doesn’t stop once your baby is born. I work with many nursing mothers postpartum to help get them on a smooth and enjoyable breastfeeding journey together. Knowledge is power, and if you understand what happens in your body after birth it will help you to start breastfeeding confidently.
Breastfeeding - all you need to know
Colostrum is the first milk you will produce and it’s a tiny amount. This can come in even before your baby is born. New mothers often worry it’s not enough but believe me it is! Your infant’s tummy is incredibly small, only 5ml in those first few days so just a few drops is all it needs. Colostrum is remarkably rich with nutrients. It also varies in colour; yellow, white or even green.
After a few days your mature milk will come in which will be white. When this happens, it is common to experience pain in your breasts. If your skin feels hot to the touch or you have a fever then it could be mastitis. Mastitis is very common and easily treatable, continue breastfeeding with both breasts, there is no risk for your baby and it will help you to heal. If you want further information about mastitis care, feel free to contact me.
If the mastitis is to painful or remains more than 48 hours do not hesitate to speak to your doctor.
Now, because your breasts are adjusting to making and supplying milk, they will inevitably feel tender in those first few days. Add a hungry baby suckling on your nipple and for some the pain can be too much. Do not panic! I can work with you to find the best breastfeeding position for you and your baby. Know that your body has just been through an extraordinarily intense experience, birthing a baby, and it does take a little while to get everything running smoothly again. That’s what this experienced Maternity Nurse is here to help with!
Maternity Consultancy in London
From milk supply issues (over and under supply) to latching on, tongue-ties to night feeding, baby poop and breastpumps, I can help you and your family enjoy the wonder of breastfeeding together. Breastmilk is a wonderful gift and one that lasts a lifetime.