Many mothers worry about returning to work and will they be able to continue to breastfeed, will their breastfed child be able to settle for another caregiver or will it negatively affect their breastfeeding relationship? I know because I've been there, twice! Before becoming an antenatal educator and lactation consultant I was a social care worker and had to navigate that return to to a busy and intense work place while breast feeding. This workshop combines my personal experience and my professional lactation, social care and legal knowledge to enable you to return to work with confidence no matter what your work scenario. Places are limited so book early to avoid disappointment. Booking link in Bio #BacktoWork #returntoWork #WorkingMothers #Breastfeeding #BacktoWorkandBreastfeeding #BreastfeedinginIreland

NOLLAIG NA MBAN SHONA DAOIBH The twelfth and final day of Christmas, January 6th, is known in Ireland as Nollaig na mBan or Women’s Christmas. In the past as a reward for their hard work over the Christmas season, it was a day off from all house work for women and traditional roles were supposed to be reversed in the home: men did the women’s work in the house while women rested and gathered together informally often in bars where normally they may not have been welcome. Cultural surveys would show that women, in general, still do the majority of household tasks. So today, put the feet up and lighten the load ❤️💙❤️💙 #nollaignamban #womenschristmas #littlechristmas

Today is the Winter Solstice, the shortest day of the year, but it marks the start of lighter days to come. Welcome to the world special Solstice babies! The winter solstice is an important time in Ireland and has been marked for at least 5000 years! The spectacular Síd in Broga cairn at Newgrange, Co Meath, was built around 3300 BC in precise alignment with the rising sun over the solstice each winter. Even long after the building of Newgrange, the Celts continued the celebration of the solstice in Ireland. According to Celtic myth, the solstice marked a great battle each year between the Oak King who represented the light, and the Holly King who represented the dark. Each year the Oak King would finish victorious at the winter solstice, and daylight would slowly return to the island until it was time to do battle again - at the summer solstice. I hope today is the mark of brighter days to come and the Oak King remains victorious. Love & Light this festive season Niamh #Wintersolstice #solsticebaby #solsticebabies

Many breastfeeding people wonder can they have an alcoholic drink while breastfeeding; the short answer is yes, if you would like to you can but let’s look into it in a bit more detail so that you can make an informed decision. 1. Does alcohol pass into your breastmilk? Yes it does, the level of alcohol in your breastmilk is about same, or slightly less, as in your blood, it enters and leaves at a similar pace. Irish Law (in line with EU legislation) considers alcohol free products as having no more than 0.5% ABV. A 140lb woman would need to drink about 13 pints in 5 hours to reach a blood alcohol level high enough for her milk to no longer be considered alcohol free under EU legislation. If she did that, chances are she’d be passed out (or in a coma) so couldn’t feed the baby anyway. To put a bit more context on it, someone would be visibly drunk with a blood alcohol level of 0.1%. So really, the amounts of alcohol ingested by a nursing infant are very small. 2. I’m not comfortable with any alcohol in my breastmilk, how long do I have to wait to feed? That all depends on how much you drink. Alcohol levels are usually highest in breast milk 30-60 minutes after an alcoholic drink is consumed. Alcohol leaves you system at approximately one unit per hour. A ‘standard drink’ and a unit of alcohol are not the same things in Ireland! In Ireland a standard drink has about 10 grams of pure alcohol. In the UK a standard drink, also called a unit of alcohol, has about 8 grams of pure alcohol. So, it will take about 70-75 minutes for an Irish ‘standard drink’ to leave your system. 3. Does pumping and dumping make a difference? No, pumping and dumping the milk will not eliminate the alcohol in your breast milk quicker as only time can do this. That said if you are not feeding your baby during the time that there is alcohol in your breast milk you may need to pump to maintain supply. 4. Ok, I’d like to have a drink and not wait for it to leave my system, what else do I need to know? Check out my blog as Instagram doesn't give me enough characters! Link in my Bio #BreastfeedingatChristmas #BreastfeedinginIreland #ChristmasDrinks #AlcoholinBreastmilk

Birth doesn't stop at Christmas so I am aiming to be available over the festive period as much as is possible. I do however, need to take some time off and I will be limiting appointments on some days to newborn/emergency only appointments. For the purpose of this by newborn I mean babies up to 4 weeks old. Feeding difficulties in babies recently discharged home from NICU/SCBU will also be prioritised. Available appointments can be booked directly on my website. Link in bio . . . . #bornatchristmas #BreastfeedinginIreland #IBCLC #mastitis #NewbornChristmas #1stChristmas

The Rotunda Hospital, Dublin, is the busiest maternity unit in Ireland with over 8000 babies born there last year. Where did you give birth and how did you find it?

Don't be worried if your milk has a slightly coloured tinge to it, its totally normal!

I am excited to announce that I will be featuring on the Maternity & Midwifery Hour next Wednesday at 7pm along with Dr. Anna Byrom and host Sue MacDonald. We will be discussing the power and potential of physiology around pregnancy, birth and postnatal periods. This includes discussion around Oxytocin (that love hormone), the labour and birth environment, skin to skin and how that can enhance the newborn physiology, infant feeding and long term well being. To register for this free live event see link in bio. #midwiferyhour #oxytocin #breastfeeding #skintoskin

Delighted to get this lovely review this evening ❤ #BreastfeedingSupport #BreastfeedinginIreland #lactation #backtowork #BacktoWorkBreastfeeding

Babies love to be cuddled and held, as every parent knows. But why? Evidence suggests that being in skin-to-skin contact with a parent does more than just make the baby happy. Before being born a baby only knows it’s mothers body and so it is the place they feel safe after they are born, But that’s not all - it can help to solve breastfeeding problems, prevent hypoglycaemia and other newborn difficulties, reduce pain, stabilise premature babies and set the stage for optimal brain development. Being held, or worn, isn’t just for tiny newborns, cuddling helps your baby regularly and in response to their needs helps them develop a secure attachment. The bond developed has effects later in your child’s life in terms of self-confidence, healthy individuation and exploration, expression of empathy, social relationships and ability to cope with life stressors. Say it with me and say it loud YOU CAN NEVER CUDDLE YOUR BABY TOO MUCH YOU CANNOT SPOIL YOUR BABY BABIES ARE NOT CAPABLE OF MANIPULATION, ONLY EXPRESSING NEEDS

I asked in my stories the other day for topic suggestions for posts. One that came up was breastfeeding older infants and I thought - wow what a great idea for a post! A lot of breastfeeding information focuses on the early days of feeding. This knowledge is so important as getting started is often the hardest part but for families feeding beyond what we know of as the Fourth Trimester (the first 12 weeks) there is often less information and support. So I set about getting it together. Turns out I had far too much to say to fit in a social media post so these are just tiny tidbits from my latest blog - 'Breastfeeding Beyond the Fourth Trimester'. Link in Bio . . . #breastfeeding #breastfeedingmom #trimester #threemonthold #fourmonthold #fivemonthsold #BreastfeedinginIreland

Hormones play a huge role in pregnancy, from getting pregnant, to staying pregnant and bringing us to childbirth. This post looks briefly at the role of some of the different hormones in each trimester. For a more detailed overview check out my latest blog post! And while you're there why not check out the rest and see if there's any helpful info for you. Link in Bio . . . #PrenantinIreland #PregnancyHormones #GettingPregnant #FirstTrimester #SecondTrimester #ThirdTrimester #AntenatalEducation

Today is the last day of Transgender Awareness Week and tomorrow marks Transgender Day of Remembrance. My contribution to Transgender awareness this year is to talk about Trans Chest and Breast feeding. Trans men, trans women, and non-binary individuals may choose to breastfeed or chestfeed their babies. Trans men may choose to get pregnant and to nurse and trans women may choose to induce lactation and nurse. “It is equally important to note that some trans people experience severe gender dysphoria when breast or chestfeeding, and that they may decide not to nurse their babies for mental health reasons. Trans parents choosing to breast or chestfeed and those choosing to suppress lactation and bottlefeed may require the support of breastfeeding counsellors or lactation professionals.” Transgender dad Trevor MacDonald As an Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) under our Code of Ethics I “Treat all clients equitably without regard to ability/disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, sex, ethnicity, race, national origin, political persuasion, marital status, geographic location, religion, socioeconomic status, age...". I also strive to learn and do better and to raise the voices of the marginalised. #TransAwarenessWeek

Did you know? There is more research on bovine mastitis than human mastitis? Why? Why? I hear you say. Because cows are a valuable commodity, unlike women and babies... "Bovine mastitis is one of the most important diseases in the dairy industry and has detrimental impact on the economy". (Quote from a research article) The turnover value of the milk processing industry in Ireland is €4.8 billion. Cow's milk and formula production and marketing is prioritized over women and children's health for this reason. But what if we saw women as valuable? What if we saw babies as valuable? Not as commodities but as human beings. But if we want to bring the economy into it the longer babies and children are breastfed the less they take from the economy in healthcare over their lifetime and the less time women miss work due to child illnesses. Breastfeeding is good for babies, its good for women and breastfeeding parents, its good for society and its good for the economy. We need more funding to research its challenges and to put in place evidence based supports for all women and children. #WelcometomyTEDTalk #BreastfeedinginIreland #DairyIndustry #BreastfeedingSupport #BreastfeedingResearch

Today is World Prematurity Day The global theme for World Prematurity Day 2021 is: Zero Separation: Act now! Keep parents and babies born too soon together. The global COVID-19 pandemic has repeatedly pushed healthcare systems to the brink of functionality – and in some cases even beyond. The pandemic has particularly affected families with a baby born too soon, too small, or too sick since these babies are particularly vulnerable, often need specialised and intensive care, and have to remain in hospital for longer periods of time. In order to try to protect both staff and patients from contracting and spreading the virus, many clinics and hospitals were forced to take strict safety precautions and put rigorous hygiene measures in place. Unfortunately, this has also meant that the contact between parents and their baby was often massively restricted. Many NICUs also limited the number of family members who were allowed to enter the unit and the amount of time they were allowed to spend there. So far, studies have suggested that these safety measures do not prevent the spread of COVID-19 to the extent that they justify separating parents and babies – especially since research has shown the negative long-term effects of familial separation. This is why the motto of this year’s World Prematurity Day is Zero separation Act now! Keep parents and babies born too soon together. We need to advocate that safe, infant- and family-centred developmental care for babies born too soon, too small, or too sick is possible even in times of a global pandemic. On World Prematurity Day lets raise our voices for babies born too soon and their families because parents and their babies belong together – always. . . . . . #prematurity #WorldPrematurityDay2021 #ZeroSeparation #NICUheroes

Many women in Ireland report stopping breastfeeding earlier than they wanted to. This is often down to lack of appropriate support, confusing conflicting advice and sometimes just not knowing what was normal or not. My breastfeeding support packages aim to reduce the risk of this. I can work with you from pregnancy right the way through to returning to work or weaning. Each plan includes a way to get to know each other before the baby is born, support once baby arrives,* a postnatal home visit within 4 days of hospital discharge**, a typed lactation support plan with linked resources and ongoing support through my dedicated client portal in relation to the plan. There are then different additions based on the level of the plan. Tailor made packages to include full antenatal education/VBAC workshop/antenatal home consultation can also be developed to meet your needs. *with guaranteed reply within 6 hours for Bronze-Gold packages (if email is received between 6am-4pm) and within 4 hours via WhatsApp for Platinum packages. It's important to note that while in hospital the hospital clinicians are responsible for your and your baby's care and I can only offer information and support (not medical advice) based on what you disclose to me. **within 7 days of a planned homebirth. Homevisits only available in DUBLIN for Silver -Platinum and only in NORTH Dublin for Bronze (South Dublin would incur a travel fee of €25). Kildare, Meath & Louth will be considered on request for Silver-Platinum. #BreastfeedingSupport #continuityofcare #BreastfeedinginIreland #IBCLC #BreastfeedingSupportPackages #BreastfeedingEducation #BreastfeedingClasses

With a high medical induction rate in Ireland many people look for ways to – bring about labour naturally, but what does the evidence tell us? Acupressure & Acupuncture may promote a more favourable state of the cervix within 24 hours but there is not a lot of evidence supporting acupressure or acupuncture for labour initiation. However, there is evidence on benefits from acupressure during labour including reduced pain intensity & anxiety. Nipple stimulation causes the release of oxytocin which can start or increase uterine contractions. In trials that compared breast stimulation to no intervention, there was a significant increase in the number of people in the breast stimulation group who went into labour over 72 hours. 37% V 6%. Castor oil taken orally can increase the chances of you going into labour within 24 hours if you’re pregnant at 40 weeks or later. Castor oil however also make most people nauseous & may cause abdominal cramping & should be discussed with a care provider before attempting use. Dates - people who are randomly assigned to eat dates had a shorter length of the early phase of labour, were less likely to be induced or have augmentation & had a higher Bishop score on admission to the hospital - so their cervix were more ripe. Sex It would make sense that sex could induce labour. Firstly, there are prostaglandins in semen & prostaglandins can ripen the cervix & trigger contractions. Second, there is increase in oxytocin from sexual activity & close skin-to-skin contact & nipple stimulation & oxytocin is the hormone that causes contractions. & third, sexual activity & orgasm also produce oxytocin & stimulate uterine activity. But when we look at the research on sex for natural labour induction it has not been found that sex is an effective means of natural labour induction. The trials are however hard to compare & more robust research is needed before ruling it in or out as effective. In the meantime its safe in most pregnancies so worth a shot if you fancy it. #NaturalInduction #Induction

Did you know? The average age of a first time mother in Ireland is 31.3 years old and the average age of anyone giving birth is approximately 33 years old. How old were you when you had your first baby?

These are some of my favourite birth affirmations and the ones I used personally. What are your favourites? #birthaffirmations #birthaffirmation #positivebirth

I'm facilitating this free Back to Work & Breastfeeding Workshop for @dunfanaghyfrc for Breastfeeding families in the North West. Contact Dunfanaghy FRC to secure a place dunfresource@gmail.com #BacktoWork #backtoworkandbreastfeeding #BreastfeedinginIreland

Part 5 (and the final part for the time being) in my What's in Human Milk series. Parts 1-4 are available on my grid. This post is looking at Leptin and its role in preventing obesity. Leptin is a hormone that regulates appetite, food intake and energy metabolism. It is present in breastmilk but not replicated in formula. Leptin concentrations in breastmilk decrease with time during lactation but remain significant. Children breastfed for at least 6 months are protected against excess weight gain in early childhood even when breastfeeding is finished. Milk leptin could explain, at least partially, the greater risk of obesity in formula fed infants compared with breastfed infants. . #Breastmilk #Breastmilkbaby #BreastfeedinginIreland #HumanMilk #BreastfeedingEducation #HumanMilk4HumanBabies #humanmade #womanmade #milk #Leptin #obesity #preventingobesity @cuidiuofficialireland

Did you know as well as being a lactation consultant I am also a fully trained antenatal educator? Teaching people effectively isn't just something you can do if you have specialist knowledge of a subject. Teaching & facilitation is a skill. In my classes I use my skills as an educator to keep you engaged and to embed the knowledge in a way that you can actually use it. You have time for all your questions to be answered and to practice skills learned. As an independent educator I am not constrained by a hospital employer in the information I deliver. I strive to ensure that everything I provide is up to date and evidence based. These 1:1 classes are a great way for expectant parents to have their antenatal education needs met. Classes may be delivered online, via Zoom or in-person, in your own home if you are in North Dublin. For more information or to book check out my website. Link in bio. . . . . . . .. . #VBAC #VBACSucess #VBACClass #OnlineAntenatalClass #PrivateAntenatalClass #PregnancyTips #FirstTrimester #1stTrimester #SecondTrimester #2ndTrimester #ThirdTrimester #3rdTrimester #PregnantinIreland #Newborn #Postpartum #PandemicPregnancy #Twinpregnancy #Multiples #Multiplebirth #TwinBirth #Antenatalclasses #antenatalclassesireland #pregnantinapandemic #postnatalsupport #breastfeedingtwins

Oiche Shamnha Shona Daoibh

Do you know an aspiring lactation consultant or breastfeeding supporter? They may be interested in this series I'm creating as a study aid so feel free to tag them! This is Part 4 and is looking at lipids. Parts 1-3 are available in my grid. Human milk lipids provide babies with energy, essential vitamins, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and bioactive components. Lipids usually make up 3% to 5% of the composition of breast milk. The amount of lipids (fat) in human milk is not constant however. It changes throughout the day and over time as your baby grows. It even changes during each feeding. Breast milk produced for premature infants has about 30% more fat than that made for full-term babies. Triglycerides are the main lipid found in breast milk. They are responsible for the storage of and release of energy for the baby. They are broken down to free fatty acids and glycerol by the enzyme lipase found in the baby's gut and breastmilk itself. Cholesterol is essential for brain and nerve development. It is also needed to make hormones which regulate the functions of the body. Adults who were breastfed as children have lower levels of bad (LDL) cholesterol and a lower risk of heart disease. Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) is an essential fatty acid that contributes to the development of the central nervous system and the brain. It is also very important for the development of the visual system. Arachidonic Acid (AA) is another important essential fatty acid in human milk. Together DHA & AA account for approximately 20% of the fatty acid content of the brain and promote healthy neurological growth, repair and myelination. #Breastmilk #Breastmilkbaby #BreastfeedinginIreland #HumanMilk #BreastfeedingEducation #HumanMilk4HumanBabies #bacteria #antiinflammitory #humanmade #womanmade #milk #lipids #fats #DHA #FattyAcids

Pregnancy Tips The First Trimester Research your antenatal and birth care options & book in Continue to take folic acid or start taking it Continue normal exercise routine unless advised by your doctor or midwife not to Listen to your body, rest when needed If nauseous, eat little and often The Second Trimester Book your antenatal education class Do your pelvic floor exercises Continue normal exercise routine unless advised by your doctor or midwife not to Drink lots of water & increase calorie intake by about 300 cals Watch positive birth videos or read positive birth stories Consider hiring a doula The Third Trimester Attend an antenatal education class Discuss your labour and birth preferences with your care provider and birth partner Get baby essentials like somewhere to sleep, a safe way to travel, nappies and clothing Do a post-natal plan Get to know your baby's movements #PregnancyTips #FirstTrimester #1stTrimester #SecondTrimester #2ndTrimester #ThirdTrimester #3rdTrimester #PregnantinIreland #Newborn #Postpartum #Pregnanyinapandemic #PandemicPregnancy #Twinpregnancy #Multiples #Multiplebirth #TwinBirth #Antenatalclasses #antenatalclassesireland #pregnantinapandemic #postnatalsupport #breastfeedingtwins #4thtrimester

Part 3 of my "What is in Human Milk?" series is looking at Enzymes. Enzymes help speed up chemical reactions in the human body. They bind to molecules and alter them in specific ways. They are essential for respiration, digesting food, muscle and nerve function, among thousands of other roles. Lysozyme is an enzyme found in significant quantities in human milk. It is anti-inflammatory and destroys bacteria by breaking down their cell walls. Lysozyme increases in quantity in breastmilk as babies get older, start solids and start to move around. What do you think the reason for this might be? It is particularly effective against E-coli and salmonella. Histaminase is another enzyme in breastmilk. It inactivates and breaks down histamine, a substance released by the body during stress and allergy. #Breastmilk #Breastmilkbaby #BreastfeedinginIreland #HumanMilk #BreastfeedingEducation #HumanMilk4HumanBabies #bacteria #antiinflammitory #humanmade #womanmade #milk

Just in case it sometimes doesn't feel it, remember you are their everything. Their love for you is the purest form of love in existence. Soak it up, breathe it in and let your body relax. #truelove #lovestory #4thtrimester #newborncare #antenatalclasses #breastfeedingsupport #ibclc

Next up in my series on What is in Human Milk - Human Milk Oligosaccharides Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) are complex sugars and are the third most abundant solid component in breast milk. Many HMOs cannot be digested by humans and instead act as food for the healthy bacteria in the infants gut. These good bacteria help your baby resist infection. HMOs help babies develop a healthy gut microbiome and this microbiome plays a pivotal role in protecting babies against infection and ensuring their immune system develops properly. What we know about HMOs is probably just the tip of the iceberg and researchers are studying every day to find out more. This is one of the most interesting topics in human milk research today. #Breastmilk #Breastmilkbaby #BreastfeedinginIreland #HumanMilk #BreastfeedingEducation #HumanMilk4HumanBabies

Birth affirmations are positive statements about yourself and the birth process. Their purpose is to remind you of a truth or idea that will help you reach your goal of a positive birth experience. I particularly like this one because it apt whether someone is planning a vaginal or surgical birth. I also like it because it reminds me that we share the day we give birth with around 385,000 women and birthing people. Imagine the strength of all those humans while you labour and birth! #birthafirmations #ChildbirthEducation #AntenatalClasses

Excited by this new series I'm creating - What is in Human Milk? First up - Lactoferrin Lactoferrin is one of the most abundant proteins in human milk. It has an anti-tumor effect and has been found to significantly inhibit the growth of some cancerous cells. It helps prevent diarrhea, neonatal sepsis, and necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm infants. Lactoferrin helps baby absorb the iron in breast milk. Over 50% of the iron in breast milk is absorbed (compared to just 12% of the iron in formula). Lactoferrin can prevent viral infections and it is believed that it is likely that it has protective effects against SARS-CoV-2 which causes COVID 19 illness. #Breastmilk #Breastmilkbaby #BreastfeedinginIreland #HumanMilk #BreastfeedingEducation #HumanMilk4HumanBabies

Tag a local business below who other parents or parents to be might be interested in. Let us know where they are based and why you recommend! #ShopLocal #SupportSmallBusiness #WomeninBusiness

The real key to breastfeeding is - SUPPORT! Tag someone who supported you, or is supporting you, during your breastfeeding journey. It might be your partner, mother, sister, friend, a breastfeeding counsellor, breastfeeding support group, lactation consultant, midwife ... it could be anyone! Tag as many as you like to say thank you. #breastfeeding #breastfeedingsupport #breastfeedinginireland

Its the last day of National Breastfeeding Week and I'd love to offer my followers a 15% discount code for my next @cuidiuofficialireland @antenatalireland Breastfeeding Preparation Workshop (Online, November 13th, 10am-1pm). Just drop me a comment below and I'll PM you the code you can use at booking on my website. #offer #discount #NBWDiscount #NationalBreastfeedingWeek #breastfeedingpreparation #BreastfeedingClass #BreastfeedinginIreland #BreastfeedinginIreland

Breastfed babies take approximately the same amount of milk per day from the time they’re about 6 weeks old to the time they’re about 6 months old and start solids. Breastmilk composition changes from feeding to feeding to meet the needs of the baby! #NationalBreastfeedingWeek #FeedingtheFuture #BreastfeedinginIreland #NBW21 #NationalBreastfeedingWeek2021

#NationalBreastfeedingWeek #FeedingtheFuture #BreastfeedinginIreland #NBW21 #NationalBreastfeedingWeek2021

Your pregnancy hormones cause breast tissue to change into milk-producing tissue. This change starts to happen as early as the first week. Early on in the pregnancy, you may notice a tingling sensation in your breasts, and your breasts may feel tender and sore. This is due to increasing levels of the hormone progesterone. #NationalBreastfeedingWeek #FeedingtheFuture #BreastfeedinginIreland #NBW21 #NationalBreastfeedingWeek2021

It's National Breastfeeding Week! The theme this year is - Feeding the future: Supporting breastfeeding through a pandemic and beyond. COVID changed how I worked. All classes moved online and in-home lactation consultations needed to be justified so many happened online. As we move out of the emergency phase of the pandemic I'm delighted to be back doing 1:1 classes in the home and also mostly in-home lactation consultations. I hope to be back teaching in-person group classes in the New Year. The positives have been that I have been able to reach families further afield for classes through teaching online and I intend to continue to offer both. Also I've been able to support women in remote areas of Donegal & Cork from my sitting room in Dublin! Some sessions almost work even better online such as Back to Work consultations as the women are often very busy and connecting online after baby goes to bed just makes sense! I'm looking forward to being able to offer choice to families between in-home and virtual support. #NationalBreastfeedingWeek #FeedingtheFuture #BreastfeedinginIreland #NBW21 #NationalBreastfeedingWeek2021

National Breastfeeding Week in Ireland runs from the 1st-7th October each year. This year in celebration I am hosting a free event - Breastfeeding Preparation Chats. This will be an informal session for expectant parents who wish to breastfeed their baby once born. You will have an opportunity to ask questions and to chat to other expectant parents. Places are limited, to book your free place click the link in my bio. #NationalBreastfeedingWeek #NationalBreastfeedingWeek2021 #BreastfeedingEvents #Breastfeeding #BreastfeedingPreparation #ChildbirthEducation

Being a new parent is the most amazing thing, it's also the hardest, scariest thing. Having a tiny human who you love more than you knew was possible be wholly dependent on you for their every need is overwhelming for most. Understanding normal newborn behaviour can help take some of the stress away, as can building your support network but it's still a massive life change and we need to appreciate that it is hard, and its ok that we find it hard. #newborn #4thtrimester #fourthtrimester #childbirtheducation #caringforanewborn #breastfeeding #breastfeedingpreparation

What is the Golden Hour & why is it important? The Golden Hour refers to the first hour after a baby is born where a mother has skin-to-skin time with her baby. Babies cannot regulate their temperature well and being skin-to-skin helps to regulate the baby’s temperature. This protected time together also promotes mother/baby attachment and reduces maternal and baby stress. Being born is a huge change for the baby's senses and being skin-to-skin helps the baby transition to postnatal life. The Golden Hour is also a time for the baby to have their first breastfeed. Being skin to skin helps facilitate this. Skin-to-skin and the first breastfeed release hormones that cause the uterus to contract towards its original size and stop bleeding. What else do you know about the Golden Hour? #GoldenHour #Newborn #Breastfeeding #BreastfeedingClasses #BreastfeedinginIreland #PregnantinaPandemic #pandemicpregnancy #breastfeedingsupport #breastfeedingtips #breastfeedinginpublic #breastfeedingandpartners #breastmilk #breastfed

I am taking expressions of interest in my exclusive Mindfulness in Pregnancy Course. To express interest please complete the form in Bio. If a course is planned you will be offered a place, you are not obligated to take up the place by expressing interest. Pregnancy, labour and early parenting can all be times of naturally heightened anxiety. Add in a global pandemic and anxiety levels are increased. Practicing Mindfulness is scientifically proven to reduce anxiety and perception of pain. This 4 week Mindfulness in Pregnancy course can give you the basics to start a lifelong practice. The tools learned can be used antenatally, during labour and beyond. I am continuing to offer this course at a significantly discounted price of €50 during the pandemic. #PreganantinaPandemic #MindfulnessinPregnancy #Mindfulness #AntenatalEducation #ChildbirthClasses

Tips for parents expecting Twins or more. Link in Bio. Pregnancies with more than one baby are different in lots of ways to those of a single baby. There is usually additional antenatal visits and more contact with a consultant. Birth is also often more managed and obviously looking after more than one newborn at a time has its own challenges. These are just a few tips I’ve picked up along the way. For more check out my Blog. Do a specific multiples antenatal class Most classes are targeted a singleton pregnancies and may not meet your needs due to the many differences between a singleton pregnancy and that of multiples. (Get in touch if you would like to know more). Visit NICU Twins and higher order multiples are more likely to need the specialised support of Special Care or NICU. Ask your maternity unit about a visit so you will know what to expect. Virtual visits may be available at present. Learn about Breastfeeding Babies who are born early need colostrum (your first milk) to keep them healthy. Even if you don't plan on breastfeeding long term learning about how it works will be beneficial for you and your babies Make caesarean birth preferences Vaginal birth is possible with twins, however caesarean birth is common. Making caesarean birth preferences can help make the experience extra special Plan your real life support Being a new parent of one baby requires support, being a new parent of more requires more! Plan what family, friend and professional support you will avail off. Who can you count on? Will you pre-book a post partum doula? Or a cleaner? Get peer support Join Facebook groups or real life ones of parents of twins and multiples, the support of people who've experienced it already is invaluable. Tag parents expecting multiples so they can benefit from these tips or add your own below! #Twinpregnancy #Multiples #Multiplebirth #TwinBirth #Antenatalclasses #antenatalclassesireland #pregnantinapandemic #postnatalsupport #breastfeedingtwins #4thtrimester

It's a really good idea to have a conversation, before labour starts, about how you will announce the birth of the baby. -Who will get the first call or text message? Will both sets of grandparents be told simultaneously? -Will whoever is told first be allowed pass on the news or do you want to communicate it to everyone yourself? How will you explain your wished to them? Be clear if you don't want it shared on social media, people get very excited to share such lovely news. -Will you announce on social media? If so who will do it, and when? Tell me your announcement stories! #birthannouncement #BabyisHere #Childbirtheducation #AntenatalClasses

*Back to Work and Breastfeeding* Are you anxious about returning to work and continuing to breastfeed? Check out some of my tips here and in my blog. Or even better yet book a Back to Work and Breastfeeding Zoom consultation for only €80 today! We can plan for your return to work in relation to your specific circumstances and needs. Blog link in Bio. #BacktoWork #BacktoWorkandBreastfeeding #MaternityLeave #PregnantinIreland #BreastfeedinginIreland #Breastfeeding

Many women in Ireland report stopping breastfeeding earlier than they wanted to. This is often down to lack of appropriate support, confusing conflicting advice and sometimes just not knowing what was normal or not. My breastfeeding support packages aim to reduce the risk of this. I can work with you from pregnancy right the way through to returning to work or weaning. Each plan includes a way to get to know each other before the baby is born, email support once baby arrives,* a postnatal home visit within 4 days of hospital discharge**, a typed lactation support plan with linked resources and ongoing email support in relation to the plan. There are then different additions based on the level of the plan. Tailor made packages to include full antenatal education/VBAC workshop/antenatal home consultation can also be developed to meet your needs. *with guaranteed reply within 6 hours for Bronze-Gold packages (if email is received between 6am-4pm) and within 4 hours via WhatsApp for Platinum packages. It's important to note that while in hospital the hospital clinicians are responsible for your and your baby's care and I can only offer information and support (not medical advice) based on what you disclose to me. **within 7 days of a planned homebirth. Homevisits only available in DUBLIN for Silver -Platinum and only in North Dublin for Bronze. Kildare, Meath & Louth will be considered on request for Silver-Platinum. #BreastfeedingSupport #continuityofcare #BreastfeedinginIreland #IBCLC #BreastfeedingSupportPackages #BreastfeedingEducation #BreastfeedingClasses

Tips for partners in supporting breastfeeding Understand it Take a breastfeeding class with your partner to learn about how it works and what supports are needed Be a cheerleader Tell them how wonderful they doing and how proud of them you are Feed them People who are breastfeeding burn additional calories and its often difficult to prepare food while looking after a newborn so make sure they have plenty of meals and easy to reach snacks. Also lots of water! Listen If the breastfeeding parent is struggling listen to what they have to say, try to resist jumping in early with solutions, they may just need to be heard. Find Support If they need additional support know where to find it and offer to send the emails/make the calls. Volunteer support can be found at @cuidiuofficialireland @lalecheleagueofireland and @friendsofbreastfeeding . Support from a qualified lactation consultant can be found at @aclireland or just drop me an email to book a class or consultation! What tips would you add? There are also more tips and more detail on these ones in my updated blog. Link in Bio. #BreastfeedingClasses #BreastfeedinginIreland #PregnantinaPandemic #pandemicpregnancy #breastfeedingsupport #breastfeedingtips #breastfeedinginpublic #breastfeedingandpartners #breastmilk #breastfed

What advice would you give parents-to-be, or new parents, about the newborn stage? . . . . . . . . . #newborn #newbornbaby #breastfeeding #breastfeedingpreparation #breastfeedingsupport #iwanttobreastfeed #breastfeedinginireland #pregnantinapandemic #pregnantinireland #ibclc #pregnantinireland #pandemicpregnancy #vbacinireland #InformedDecidonmaking #vbacinireland #Labour #PainManagement #LabouratHome #Birth #AntenatalClasses #lactationconsultant

Many people are happy to feed until their child naturally weans. Other come to a point where they decide they would like to end their nursing journey. Both choices are perfectly valid. A lot of weaning information focuses on infants or toddlers, by the time a child is age 3 or above often a more nuanced approach is needed. You may choose to use all of these tips or just one or two, you will know what is best for your family. Talk to your child Talk with them about your nursing journey coming to an end soon, acknowledge how much they like it and be understanding with any upset. You may choose to set a timeframe or leave it more open. Mark the occasion Plan an event or a new toy to mark the end of the journey. Talk excitedly about it to help the child be excited for when this will happen. Set time boundaries You may choose to set a timer for feeds and slowly reduce the time over a set period. Be prepared to comfort child in other ways as they get used to to new situation. Be consistent so the child knows what to expect. They may like to see the timer on your phone or even an egg timer. Set location/timing boundaries You may choose to set places or times when feeds are permitted. (Eg. we only have milkies at home, we only have milkies after lunch). This may be done in conjunction with the next tip or as a stand alone strategy. Use delays and distraction You may choose to add in delays and distractions. This can take the urgency out of feeds, stop feeding associations and encourage waiting. Follow through on any promised delays - if you say not now but after lunch then offer the feed after lunch. This build trust and helps the child wait next time. Through the whole process its important to offer lots of cuddles and reassurance. Your child needs to know that they can still have lots of physical closeness without nursing. If you would like to work on an individualised weaning plan please get in touch. This service can be provided during an online consultation so it doesn't matter where you are based! #breastfeeding #weaning #weaningapreschooler #weaningtoddlers #naturaltermbreastfeeding #breastfeedingsupport #breastfeedinginireland #IBCLC

People often ask what they can do to increase their chances of achieving a VBAC. While there are never guarantees these are some of the ways (there are many more!) to help increase the likelihood. First of all believing you can do it can go a long way! In Ireland a first time mother has. The rate of vaginal birth in first time mothers is 63.9%. The rate of vaginal birth for women after one caesarean who wait for labour or are induced (ie don't elect for a repeat CS or need one prior to labour) is 77.8%. Understanding and believing that you are the primary decision maker and that you have a right to full information to make your own informed decisions. Learning the skills and gaining the confidence to do this is helpful. Most women with one prior CS who wait for labour will have a vaginal birth. However, most women in Ireland with one prior CS have an elective repeat CS. This is despite HSE policy encouraging Vaginal Birth as the safer and preferred option. So why are so many 'choosing' repeat CSs? In my experience there are a number of factors: sometimes people don't realise that they can, or that it is a safe option, sometimes women are so traumatised by their first birth choosing a repeat CS is a way of staying in much needed control but often women are planning, or open to, a VBAC but late in pregnancy are convinced by their OB to have a repeat CS. I really thing we need a quantitative and qualitative study on this here in Ireland to see what is going on. Staying mobile is a great way to keep labour moving and to facilitated a vaginal birth no matter what number baby it is! And independent antenatal education, not tied down by the constraints of being in-house or of being a HSE employee, gives more scope to discuss international best practice and evidence and to encourage informed decision making rather than compliance. To find out more comment, DM or email niamh@mybabybeginnings.ie #VBAC #EvidenceBasedVBAC #EvidenceBasedBirth #VBACinIreland #VBACWorkshop #VBACClasses #PandemicPregnancy #HBAC #InformedDecisionMaking #InformedDecisionMakinginBirth #makematernitybetter #VBACTips

One of the most pressing questions for parents-to-be attending my Antenatal Courses is - When should we go to hospital? The advice from hospitals is usually to come in, when contractions are lasting for at least a minute, are five minutes apart (from the start of one to the start of the next) and that this has been happening for one hour, or 1-5-1 as this may mean you are approaching "active" labour and can be brought straight to a delivery suite. Sometimes it can be hard with nerves and excitement to wait to this point and I always say if unsure call the hospital for reassurance and if not suitably reassured, go in - you can always go home again (yes you can!). The reality is, for most first-time labours the vast majority of the labour time will be spent at home, so it’s important to have some tools in your toolbox to get you through that nervous excitement! #vbac #vbacsuccess #vbacpractitioner #vbacwithoutfear #pregnantinireland #pandemicpregnancy #vbacinireland #InformedDecidonmaking #vbacinireland #Labour #PainManagement #LabouratHome #Birth #AntenatalClasses #vbac #vbacsuccess #vbacpractitioner #vbacwithoutfear #pregnantinireland #breastfeedingclasses #lactationconsultant

VBAC Workshops - Live Online Did you have a previous caesarean birth and are considering a vaginal birth this time? Coming along to one of my VBAC Workshops is a great way to help you feel confident in your decisions. These workshops can be taken at any time during your pregnancy and are in small groups or 1:1. What’s covered? • Informed decision making • Risks & Benefits of VBAC • Risks & Benefits of Repeat Caesarean Section • Communicating with your health care provider • Minimising risk of birth trauma • Having a VBAC in Ireland • Stages of Labour • Getting baby into optimal position in pregnancy • Positioning for labour • Working with your labour hormones for an easier birth • When to go to hospital • Overcoming challenges to VBAC • Pain Management & Comfort Measures • Partner role & partner support • Inductions & VBACs • Birth Preferences My next (and last of the year) online group workshop is on - 11th September Each half day workshop has a maximum of 6 couple places so book early to avoid disappointment by sending a DM or emailing niamh@mybabybeginnings.ie Time: 10am-2.30pm (don't worry there will be breaks!) Cost: €90 per couple If you are interested in a private workshop these are three hours and cost €120. DM or email niamh@mybabybeginnings.ie to arrange a time that suits you. @cuidiuofficialireland @antenatalireland #VBAC #EvidenceBasedVBAC #EvidenceBasedBirth #VBACinIreland #VBACWorkshop #VBACClasses #PandemicPregnancy #HBAC #InformedDecisionMaking #InformedDecisionMakinginBirth #makematernitybetter

World Breastfeeding Week Competition! Win this gorgeous enamel Rainbow Milk Drop pin to celebrate your own or someone you love’s breastfeeding journey. I love this pin, its super gorgeous and not imposing and can be worn on clothes or bags or hats or just about anything! To enter simply tag a friend in the comments and make sure you are following me. The competition is being run on both Instagram and Facebook and one winner will be chosen across platforms, I only have one pin! Winner will be chosen on the last day of World Breastfeeding Week (Saturday 7th August) at about 1pm. Best of Luck! Niamh xoxo #breastfeeding4publichealth #WBW2021 #WABA #ProtectBreastfeeding #SharedResponsibility #breastfeeding #SDGs #worldbreastfeedingweek2021 #ProtectBreastfeedingaSharedResponsibility #protectbreastfeedingtogether #buildingbackbetter #warmchain4breastfeeding #breastfeeding4publichealth

A good latch is the key to a good feeding. And key to a good latch is good positioning. Regardless of how you hold your baby ensure they are pulled in tight against your body, tummy to tummy, that their eye, shoulder and hip are in alignment and that their feet are supported. Signs of a good latch are that both upper and lower lips are flanged (rolled out), all or most of your areola is in the baby’s mouth (more from the bottom of the areola than the top) and you are both comfortable through the feeding. There may be some initial “latching-on” pain that subsides quickly. Ways to tell that a baby is feeding well include: ✨There is movement in the baby’s temples with sucking and the jaw moves up and down ✨Hearing swallowing at least every third suck once the mature milk comes-in (around day 2-4) and seeing milk in the baby’s mouth ✨Consistent sucking with only brief pauses ✨The breasts are softer after feedings ✨Feeling strong, deep, "pulling", sucking, no sharp pain ✨Minimal weight loss during the first few days (<10% of birth weight) and return to birth weight by about 2 weeks ✨Dirty nappy colour changes from black and sticky to liquid and mustardy by about day 4-5. ✨Has at least 1 wet nappy per day for life up to day 6 (day 1, one wet, day 2, two wet etc) and then continues with 6+ wet nappies a day ✨Has 1 dirty nappy per day of life until day 3-4, then 3+ dirty nappies a day If you have concerns about your baby’s feeding you can contact your maternity hospital, PHN, GP, or voluntary organisations such as @cuidiuofficialireland @lalecheleagueofireland @friendsofbreastfeeding If you would like, or need, in-home expert support you can find your local (in Ireland) private practice Lactation Consultant on https://www.alcireland.ie/ or if you’re in North Dublin please feel free to contact me directly!

Ireland's breastfeeding figures are pretty much the lowest in the world depending on which metric you use to measure. Nationally, breastfeeding is initiated in 63.8% of cases, compared with rates of 90& in Australia, 81% in the UK and 79% in the US. On discharge, just 37.3% of babies are being exclusively breastfed. According to a World Health Organisation target, half of all newborns should be exclusively breastfed to six months. According to the most recent figures, 8% of Irish babies are breastfed at six months, compared with a European average of 25% and a global average of 38%. @who @hselive #breastfeeding4publichealth #WBW2021 #WABA #ProtectBreastfeeding #SharedResponsibility #breastfeeding #SDGs #worldbreastfeedingweek2021 #ProtectBreastfeedingaSharedResponsibility #protectbreastfeedingtogether #buildingbackbetter #warmchain4breastfeeding #breastfeeding4publichealth

The theme of World Breastfeeding Week is protecting breastfeeding - a shared responsibility. What as a society and country can we do better to protect breastfeeding? To ensure that everyone has the information to make informed choices and that everyone who chooses to breastfeed can do so and can continue to do so until they decide to stop. Let me know in the comments and feel free to tag your local TDs, councillors and maternity units. #breastfeeding4publichealth #WBW2021 #WABA #ProtectBreastfeeding #SharedResponsibility #breastfeeding #SDGs #worldbreastfeedingweek2021 #ProtectBreastfeedingaSharedResponsibility #protectbreastfeedingtogether #buildingbackbetter #warmchain4breastfeeding #breastfeeding4publichealth @maimidwives

This year's World Breastfeeding Week theme is - Protecting Breastfeeding: a shared responsibility. So what's this really about? Firstly, what it's not about. Its not about forcing anyone to breastfeed, it's not about trying to make anyone feel bad who chooses not to breastfeed. My entire ethos in teaching and supporting is around informed decision making and when people have objective, unbiased, evidence based information they will make the right decisions for themselves and their baby's, whatever those decisions may be. And it's certainly not about making anyone who struggled with breastfeeding feel bad. WBW exists for you! Protecting breastfeeding means creating a society and health service that supports anyone who chooses to breastfeed to do so for as long as they choose. It means ensuring there is enough prenatal education for families to make informed decisions and it means making sure there are adequate supports in place in hospitals and in the community to support those who choose to breastfeed to have a happy, smooth journey. It means not placing obstacles in peoples way about breastfeeding and it especially means supporting those who do face challenges to the fullest extent. What can Ireland do better to protect breastfeeding? @hselive @hse_mychild @stephen_donnelly_wicklow @fiannafail @greenparty_ie @finegael #breastfeeding4publichealth #WBW2021 #WABA #ProtectBreastfeeding #SharedResponsibility #breastfeeding #SDGs #worldbreastfeedingweek2021 #ProtectBreastfeedingaSharedResponsibility #protectbreastfeedingtogether #buildingbackbetter #warmchain4breastfeeding #breastfeeding4publichealth

World Breastfeeding Week runs from 1st -7th August each year. This year the theme is Protect Breastfeeding: a shared responsibility. This means that breastfeeding isn’t just the responsibility of the individual mothers and babies, that families, communities, societies, health services and governments all have a part to play. I will play my part this week through sharing helpful content on my social media channels, through my free Webinar on Tuesday evening (still a handful of places available, see previous post), through contacting politicians and public health officials about the protection of breastfeeding and through teaching my breastfeeding workshop this weekend (small number of places still available, see previous posts). Today I will reshare in my stories posts and and videos I’ve done before to get started. Happy World Breastfeeding Week all! ❤️❤️ #WBW2021 #WABA #ProtectBreastfeeding #SharedResponsibility #breastfeeding #SDGs #worldbreastfeedingweek2021 #ProtectBreastfeedingaSharedResponsibility #protectbreastfeedingtogether #buildingbackbetter #warmchain4breastfeeding #breastfeeding4publichealth #BreastfeedingClasses #BreastfeedinginIreland #PregnantinaPandemic #pandemicpregnancy #breastfeedingsupport #breastfeedingtips #breastfeedinginpublic #breastfeedingnewborn

*Free Breastfeeding Webinar* 1st-7th August is World Breastfeeding Week, and to celebrate I’ve decided to offer a FREE webinar on getting started with breastfeeding. We’ll look at the first few hours and days and how to get off to a good start. The webinar will have an Irish system focus but participants are welcome from anywhere. Numbers are being restricted to allow for a short Q&A at the end. This webinar is suitable for pregnant people and their partners or support persons. To book your place email niamh@mybabybeginnings.ie with Free Webinar in the subject line and stating that you would like to join and your full real name. This will be a participant camera on event to ensure that all participants are genuine and no covert recoding is being done. All participants are asked to join with video on and their real name visible. I’m currently away on holidays but will get the Zoom link to everyone who gets a place. If you are unsuccessful in securing a place I will inform you ASAP. #WorldBreastfeedingWeek #FreeWebinar #BreastfeedingClasses #BreastfeedinginIreland #PregnantinaPandemic #pandemicpregnancy #breastfeedingsupport #breastfeedingtips #breastfeedinginpublic #breastfeedingnewborn @sandydoula @doula.ie @antenatalireland @breastfeedingireland

**Breastfeeding Preparation Workshop - Online** run by qualified IBCLC and antenatal educator Are you planning on breastfeeding? Get prepared during pregnancy to set yourself up for a smooth journey. My Breastfeeding Preparation Workshops are fully live, in small groups, fun and interactive, and both you and your partner/support person will leave feeling confident, and with lots of new information to support a successful breastfeeding journey. The workshops cover the basics of how breastfeeding works, latch and positioning, common pitfalls and solutions, alternative feeding methods when needs or when the time comes, normal newborn behaviour, and much, much more. Participants you also receive a 10% discount on my lactation consultancy services should they be required. The cost is €75 and is often reimbursed by health insurers. To book please email niamh@mybabybeginnings.ie @cuidiuofficialireland @cuidiuashbourne @cuidiucork @cuidiu_waterford #BreastfeedingClasses #BreastfeedinginIreland #PregnantinaPandemic #pandemicpregnancy #breastfeedingsupport #breastfeedingtips #breastfeedinginpublic

It’s hot out there! How are you all coping? #heatwave #pregnantinireland #IBCLC #antenatalclasses

There’s not much physically we can do to prepare for breastfeeding but there is still lots we can do such as surrounding ourselves with support from organisations like @cuidiuofficialireland @antenatalireland @lalecheleagueofireland @friendsofbreastfeeding @alcireland and great authors and advocates such as @prof_amybrown #breastfeeding #breastfeedingpreparation #breastfeedingsupport #iwanttobreastfeed #breastfeedinginireland #pregnantinapandemic #pregnantinireland #IBCLC

I hope to be able to take new lactation clients again soon. I'll still be providing helpful content here as I have some great posts scheduled already so don't go away! ❤

Birth trauma is distress experienced by a birthing person during or after childbirth. While trauma may be physical, it is also often emotional and psychological. Birth trauma is not just about what happened during labour and the birth. It can also refer to how the person is treated in labour and the post-partum period and how she is left feeling afterwards. Birth Trauma affects up to 30% of people who have given birth with approximately 4-6% experiencing Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This means that most people do not experience birth trauma, however the numbers are still very significant and maternity services need to be addressing these numbers and bringing them down. I'll be speaking at the @restorativebirth Birth Trauma Event this Friday about my own experiences and on the role of antenatal education in reducing the risk of birth trauma. To sign up click link in Bio. Proceeds go to First Light, who provide support and counseling to suddenly bereaved parents. All speakers are giving their time for free. . . . . . . . @antenatalireland #BirthTrauma #BirthinIreland #HealingfromTrauma #PandemicPregnancy #VBAC #VBACinIreland

Informed Decision Making is a key element of all of my work. I help parents and parents-to-be through giving them the tools, skills and information needed to return the control of their experiences to them. Find out more on my website. Link in Bio #InformedDecidonmaking #vbacinireland #Labour #PainManagement #LabouratHome #Birth #AntenatalClasses #vbac #vbacsuccess #vbacpractitioner #vbacwithoutfear #pregnantinireland #pandemicpregnancy #vbacinireland #breastfeedingclasses #lactationconsultant

Research shows that perineal massage can be of benefit in reducing perineal tears that need stitching at the time of the birth of your baby (Cochrane, 2014) Your perineum is the area of tissue between the vagina and your anus. Perineal massage involves gently massaging the perineum. With time and practice the tissues will become more elastic. This may help with the pressure felt during birth when your baby’s head crowns and is born. Perineal massage should be comfortable for you, but you need to feel the tissues being stretched and massaged for it to be useful. If you cannot reach you may ask a partner to help. How to do it: ✨Make sure you are relaxed and warm, after a bath or shower can be good. ✨Lubricate thumbs and place 2-3cm inside the vagina. If doing this alone you may only be to use 1 thumb or finger at a time on each side and then change over. ✨Press the thumbs downward towards the rectum and pull out to the sides of the vaginal walls and hold for 1-2 minutes or for as long as you can tolerate. Do this for about 5 – 15 minutes. Gently massage by moving the thumbs and forefingers together in an upwards and outwards movement in a rhythmic “U” or sling type movement. ✨Pull the thumbs outwards as though imagining how it would feel when the baby’s head is being born. #preparingforbirth #pregnancytips #pandemicpregnancy #antenataleducation

Did you know as well as being a Lactation Consultant I am also an antenatal educator who specialises in VBAC (vaginal birth after caesarean) workshops? These workshops cover the risks and benefits of both VBACs and Repeat Caesareans and are perfect for those planning VBACs or those who have yet to make a decision about their preferred mode of birth. Workshops are 1:1 or in small groups (online). DM for booking. #vbac #vbacsuccess #vbacpractitioner #vbacwithoutfear #pregnantinireland #pandemicpregnancy #vbacinireland

Entertain me in my sick bed. If you were to marry your partner at the first place you met where would it be? Swipe to see mine . . . . . . We used to hang out sitting on that patch of wall. We fondly called it ‘The Wall’ and that’s where we first met as teenagers. All of the tables at our wedding had the names of places we hung out as teenagers including the wall, stoney beach, sandy beach and the steps. All very imaginative names but if I said any to the gang we hung out with they’d know exactly where I meant!

I should be creating a helpful Reel and planning for a consultation tomorrow but instead I’m bed ridden. I did something to my back overnight and I can’t get out of bed. Waiting on the GP to call at 3.30pm. #backinjury #IBCLC #WhyMe #selfemployedwomen #selfemployedproblems #selfemployedandsick

For more fab tips and information subscribe to my newsletter on my website. Link in bio. #Labour #PainManagement #LabouratHome #Birth #AntenatalClasses

Women who are considering a VBAC need evidence based information to assist in making informed decisions. In Ireland, some of the best information we have at our disposal is the 'Turner Study'. This study reviewed all cases of complete uterine rupture (UR) in pregnancy during the decade 1993-2002. In 69,412 births studied, 5,320 women had a single prior caesarean section. Of these, 4,021 had a trial of labour and 3,129 (77.8%) had a vaginal birth. In nine (just, 0.22%) cases uterine rupture occurred. None of these nine ruptures resulted in maternal or fetal death, peripartum hysterectomy or fetal morbidity. The study concluded that a trial of labour in women with a previous low transverse caesarean is associated with a high rate of vaginal delivery and a low rate of UR. Turner MJ, Agnew G, Langan H. Uterine rupture and labour after a previous low transverse caesarean section. BJOG. 2006 Jun;113(6):729-32. #VBAC #EvidenceBasedVBAC #EvidenceBasedBirth #VBACinIreland #VBACWorkshop #VBACClasses #PandemicPregnancy #HBAC #InformedDecisionMaking #InformedDecisionMakinginBirth

My Mother by Jane Taylor* Who fed me from her gentle breast, And hushed me in her arms to rest, And on my cheek sweet kisses prest? My Mother. When sleep forsook my open eye, Who was it sung sweet hushaby, And rocked me that I should not cry? My Mother. Who sat and watched my infant head, When sleeping on my cradle bed, And tears of sweet affection shed? My Mother. Who dressed my doll in clothes so gay, And fondly taught me how to play, And minded all I had to say? My Mother. Who ran to help me when I fell, And would some pretty story tell, Or kiss the place to make it well? My Mother. *some verses left out as they didn't speak to me like these ones do #poetry #motherhood

Matrescence - the process of becoming a mother, a term I first came across while studying to be an antenatal educator. Such an important process; physically, emotionally, psychologically, neurologically yet I never learned about it. I didn't learn about it in school. I didn't learn about I during my Social Care degree, or my Criminology Masters, or and of the counselling or psychological training I did during my career as a social care worker. Matrescence - the process of becoming a mother has pretty much been ignored by physicians, by developmental psychologists, by sociologists and there can be no other explanation other than people did not feel that this developmental journey that most women, that almost 50% of society go through was important. I think it's important, I think we should shout about it from the rooftops! There is no bigger normal neurobiological change that an adult goes through than Matrescence and we need to talk about it, to study it, to understand it and to embrace it. #Matrescence #BecomingMother #PregnantinIreland #Newborn #Postpartum #Pregnanyinapandemic #PandemicPregnancy

Sometimes partner's of women planning on breastfeeding worry that they may feel left out or not useful once the baby comes. This does not need to be the case, there are plenty of opportunities for the non breastfeeding parent to engage in baby care and bonding with their baby. Some of the things you can do include Get in the bath... …with the baby. Make it a bonding and playful routine for you and the baby. Wear the baby Most babies are happy to sleep on anyone’s chest. Get to grips with babywearing so baby can nap with you and your breastfeeding partner can nap in bed. Change the nappies Breastfeeding on demand in the early days is busy work. Take on the nappy changing and dressing duties, including during the night. Cuddle & Play Next to breastfeeding there's nothing newborns love more than a cuddle and being in arms. As they come more alert you can play with your baby by singing and talking to them. You can read more about supporting your breastfeeding partner on my blog. Link in Bio #BreastfeedingSupport #BreastfeedinginIreland #PartnerSupport #HelpImHavingABaby #PandemicPregnancy

UNICEF states that "Skin-to-skin contact helps the baby to adjust to life outside the womb and is highly important for supporting mothers to initiate breastfeeding and to develop a close, loving relationship with their baby." There is a growing body of evidence that skin-to-skin contact after the birth helps babies and their mothers in many ways. -Calms and relaxes both mother and baby -Regulates the baby’s heart rate and breathing, helping them to better adapt to life outside the womb -Stimulates digestion and an interest in feeding -Regulates temperature -Enables colonisation of the baby’s skin with the mother’s friendly bacteria, thus providing protection against infection -Stimulates the release of hormones to support breastfeeding and mothering. Additional benefits for babies in the neonatal unit -Improves oxygen saturation -Reduces cortisol (stress) levels particularly following painful procedures -Encourages pre-feeding behaviour -Assists with growth -May reduce hospital stay -If the mother expresses following a period of skin-to-skin contact, her milk volume will improve and the milk expressed will contain the most up-to-date antibodies Recent research by the WHO (published 26th May 2021) states that: -Kangaroo mother care, which involves skin-to-skin contact and exclusive breastfeeding, significantly improves a premature or low birthweight baby’s chances of survival -Starting kangaroo mother care immediately after birth has the potential to save up to 150,000 more lives each year, compared with the current recommendation of starting it only once a baby is stable To me all of this means that unless there is a critical emergency for either mother or baby that skin to skin should be prioritised as a right for mothers and babies. #kangaroocare #skintoskin #skin2skin #breastfeeding #preterm #neonatal

HSE Guidelines on managing birth when gestational diabetes is present states that "Women with GDM who have maintained normoglycaemia on dietary therapy should be managed in labour as per the background population". So, if you have gestational diabetes (GDM) and have maintained good levels with diet only you should be treated as any other woman in labour. This doesn't seem to be the lived experience of many women I meet who had GDM in pregnancy however. If you had diet controlled GDM and have given birth in Ireland let me know your experience below. #GDM #gestationaldiabetes #pregnantinireland #pregnantinapandemic #VBACinIreland #informedconsent #informedrefusal #pandemicpregnancy

Vaginal exams are just one way a midwife can assess labour progression. Some women choose not to have them or to keep them to a minimum. This maybe for a variety of reasons, for example some women find them uncomfortable or painful, or may find it disheartening if not where they 'think' they should be, do not wish to risk accidental breaking of the waters or they simply do not want a person’s hand inside their vagina. There are a number of other ways of assessing progress in labour including assessing contractions, baby's descent and position of the head using abdominal palpation, observing behaviour changes and looking at the purple line and/or the rhombus of Michaelis. The purple line is a red, purple or dark line (depending on skin color) that creeps up between the laboring woman's bum cheeks as labour progresses and some midwives are good at telling how far along a woman is in her labour by looking at this. The rhombus is a kite-shaped area that can protrude in the lower back late in labour. While it is policy in most hospitals to use VEs (vaginal exams) as a tool for assessing labour this does not mean you have to have one if you do not want to. No one gets to put their hand inside your vagina without your explicit, enthusiastic consent. #pregnantinireland #pregnantinapandemic #VBACinIreland #informedconsent #informedrefusal #pandemicpregnancy

Happy Father’s Day to my dad and to my husband. Two of the best dads around. Pictures - my mam, dad and me as a baby and me, my husband and our eldest as a baby.

Many breastfeeding parents worry that their baby won't take a bottle in the run up to their return to work. Here's the good news - they don't need to. Babies under 6 months old can drink breastmilk from an open cup with support/ Babies over 6 months can do without breastmilk during the working day and have solids and water, or they can have milk in an open, sippy or straw cup and/or in their food. Many families find sending breastmilk in for their cereal works well. You can read more Back to Work and Breastfeeding tips on my blog. Link in bio. #BacktoWork #BacktoWorkandBreastfeeding #EndofMaternityleave #pregnantinapandemic #pandemicpregnancy #pregnantinireland #breastfeedinginireland

Anxious to get labour started? Dip into that oxytocin potion! What is oxytocin I hear you say? Well, it’s the LOVE hormone but also one of the main players in labour and birth as it’s the hormone responsible for uterine contractions. So, what makes you feel loved? Or Sexy? Dim the lights, light a candle, have a cuddle…or more if you’re up for it. Semen is a prostaglandin (another great hormone for birth), and orgasms and nipple stimulation increase oxytocin. #NATURALINDUCTION #pregnantinireland #ibclc #Overdue #pregnancylife

Some recent reviews. Such a privilege getting to help families in their breastfeeding journeys ❤️❤️

My baby is starting school in September and today I got to bring him in to see the school and meet the teachers. Was very low key compared to my eldest’s introduction but grateful to have gotten in for the few minutes. Can’t believe my baby boy is going to school!

**Pride Month** Pride Month is celebrated every June in tribute to those involved in the Stonewall Riots - where police raided the Stonewall Inn, a gay club in Greenwich Village, which resulted in bar patrons, staff, and neighborhood residents rioting outside. The message was clear; protestors demanded the establishment of places where LGBT+ people could go and be open about their sexual orientation without fear of arrest. Pride Month is largely credited as being started by bisexual activist, Brenda Howard who a year after the Stonewall Riots, organized Gay Pride Week in New York. The theme for this year's Dublin Pride is community, with a focus on promoting the vital work of LGBTQ+ organisations & services. I am proud to support Dublin Pride's fundraising initiative where all proceeds will go directly towards supporting LGBTQ+ organisations affected by the COVID-19 crisis. You too can donate though the link in my bio. LGBTQ+ parents still face many obstacles, including their legal relationship with their children. I fully support the campaign by @ranaevonmeding to urge the government to address this issue urgently. You can sign the petition through the link in my bio. #Pride #DublinPride #IrishPride #PrideIreland #lgbtqparents #LGBTQparenting #lgbtqpregnacy

**Breastfeeding Preparation Workshops - Online** run by qualified IBCLC and antenatal educator Are you planning on breastfeeding? Get prepared during pregnancy to set yourself up for a smooth journey, My Breastfeeding Preparation Workshops are fully live, in small groups, fun and interactive, and both you and your partner/support person will leave feeling confident, and with lots of new information to support a successful breastfeeding journey. The workshops cover the basics of how breastfeeding works, latch and positioning, common pitfalls and solutions and much, much more. Participants you also receive a 10% discount on my lactation consultancy services should they be required. The cost is €75 and is often reimbursed by health insurers. #BreastfeedingClasses #BreastfeedinginIreland #PregnantinaPandemic #pandemicpregnancy #breastfeedingsupport #breastfeedingtips #breastfeedinginpublic

Q: Does previous nipple piercing affect breastfeeding? A: Nipple piercings typically do not usually interfere with milk production. Breast milk is produced in your mammary glands which are well behind the nipple. That said, having a piercing could slightly interfere with your milk flow as the piercing may block, cause damage to, or scaring in, the milk ducts in the nipple (the little vessels the milk moves through to exit the nipple). The likelihood of scarring is higher when there are multiple piercings in a single nipple. Scarring of milk ducts may also increase the risk of mastitis so it is important to know the signs. Symptoms include breast soreness, redness, and swelling and a temperature. Where an old piercing leaves a hole in your nipple, or where you’re piercing is still in place, you may have milk leakage from the piercing site, this doesn’t usually cause any issues however. Nipple jewellery should be removed for feeding as it is a choking hazard, it may also cause issues when breasts get engorged in the early days so many people choose to remove them during pregnancy or before birth. #askmeanything #breastfeeding #breastfeedingmom #breastfeedingsupport #breastfeedinghelp #ibclc #lactationsupport #lactationconsultant #lactationconsultantmom #breastfeddingtips #pandemicpregnancy #breastfeedingquestions #breastfeedinginireland #informationispower #pumpingmama #expressedbreastmilk #nipplepeircings #blockedducts

This story from a lovely client of mine will give you tingles! .. I almost can’t believe I am writing this but I achieved my VBAC on the 27th of May at 40+3 to a beautiful surprise baby girl weighing 7.13lbs. I made a point of reading positive VBAC birth stories every day throughout my pregnancy and I hope my story will give another VBAC mother the encouragement they need. My first birth was in Oct 19 and ended in an emergency section due to FTP pass 4cm and a “suspicious CTG” after 36 hours of Labour. My partner and I want a big family so I was adamant to not be restricted based on hospital protocols around number of sections allowed and I also wanted to experience a natural birth myself. I’m was under the care of the wonderful Roisin Lennon in SUH who was so supportive from day 1 and never once doubted my ability to have a natural birth. Without her care and holistic approach this wouldn’t have been possible. From about 37 weeks I had been experiencing period like pains which I knew were my body preparing for birth. At 39+3 I accepted a sweep at clinic and instantly felt cramps and pains, not contractions but again a feeling that my cervix was changing. I lost my plug at 39+5 and began to feel really positive about my prospects of having a VBAC as none of this happened with my son. From 39+6 everything seemed to stop and I definitely had a few wobbles about weather or not I could do this and if I would actually go into labor spontaneously. On the night of 40+1 I woke a few times with some dull back ache which was welcomed! At 40+2 these pains got progressively worse and needed my attention. After a day at home with my partner and son and a lovely evening in the park, labour really kicked off at 7pm. I labored at home using my tens machine, a heat patch, paracetamol and the gentle birth app and a diffuser filled with lavender until 3am when we decided to head in. **Continued in comments** #VBAC #VBACinIreland #PandemicPregnancy #PregnantinIreland #VBACWorkshop #VBACClass #PositiveBirthStory #VBACSuccess #EvidenceBasedVBAC #EvidenceBasedBirth #informeddecisionmaking @cuidiuofficialireland @antenatalireland

Q: Can I breastfeed twins? A: Yes! And, if they are born premature its even more important that they get your breastmilk to protect them and keep them healthy. Twin babies are more likely to be premature and more likely to need NICU support so sometimes the start of the breastfeeding journey can be different to that of a singleton, well baby but you can absolutely feed them both. At first you may find it easier to feed them separately but as you get more confident you may be able to feed them both at the same time. Do remember though that both your babies will be different and you may have different breastfeeding journeys with both of them. Doing a twin specific breastfeeding preparation class before they are born can be really helpful in planning for all eventualities. I can provide these 1:1 online, or in your home if in Dublin. #askmeanything #breastfeeding #breastfeedingmom #breastfeedingsupport #breastfeedinghelp #ibclc #lactationsupport #lactationconsultant #lactationconsultantmom #breastfeddingtips #pandemicpregnancy #breastfeedingquestions #breastfeedinginireland #informationispower #pumpingmama #expressedbreastmilk #breastfeedingtwins

Q: I have small breasts, will I be able to breastfeed? A: Yes! Parents with small breasts can breastfeed and produce a sufficient milk supply for their baby. The size of someone's breasts has more to do with the amount of fat tissue in them rather than the amount of milk making equipment! You breasts will likely enlarge somewhat during pregnancy as they get ready for milk production. If you have small breasts and had delayed puberty due to a medical condition (such as a hormone imbalance or eating disorder) and you had difficulty getting pregnant or have not experienced breast changes during pregnancy you may benefit from an antenatal consultation with a lactation consultant to discuss your history and come up with a breastfeeding support plan prior to birth. #askmeanything #breastfeeding #breastfeedingmom #breastfeedingsupport #breastfeedinghelp #ibclc #lactationsupport #lactationconsultant #lactationconsultantmom #breastfeddingtips #pandemicpregnancy #breastfeedingquestions #breastfeedinginireland #informationispower #breastfeedingproblems #pumpingmama #expressedbreastmilk

Apologies I got a bit back logged with the breastfeeding questions but getting back to them now! Q: When can I start pumping? A: Assuming there isn't a medical or urgent need to pump prior to this it is recommended to wait until at least 6 weeks until starting pumping. (But you don't ever have to pump if you don't want/need to). Why is this? During these early weeks your body is figuring out how much milk it needs to be able to make and store. Demand (of the baby) will influence the storage capacity (amount of milk that can be held in the breasts at one time) and the supply (amount of breastmilk produced each day). If we introduce pumping on top of the baby's demand we add additional demand which can lead to oversupply. Surely a big supply is a good thing? Not necessarily. Over supply can make it hard for some babies to feed at the breast as fast flow can make them cough and splutter. It can also mean that the baby gets full up on the high sugar, lower fat milk but doesn't feel satisfied so feeds regularly. In addition the mother runs a higher risk of developing mastitis if pumping sessions are dropped or feeds delayed. If you need to express milk prior to this contact a Lactation Consultant for support. #askmeanything #breastfeeding #breastfeedingmom #breastfeedingsupport #breastfeedinghelp #ibclc #lactationsupport #lactationconsultant #lactationconsultantmom #breastfeddingtips #pandemicpregnancy #breastfeedingquestions #breastfeedinginireland #informationispower #pumpingmama #expressedbreastmilk

Today marks the 40th Anniversary of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes, commonly referred to as 'the WHO Code'. It's also my birthday (although I'm a year younger then the Code :P) and I'm delighted to share it with it. The Code is an international health policy framework to regulate the marketing of breastmilk substitutes in order to protect babies & families. It was published by the World Health Organisation in 1981, and is an internationally agreed voluntary code of practice. It was written in response to the aggressive marketing activities of the infant feeding industry which were promoting formula feeding over breastfeeding, often with misleading information, which in turn was leading to dramatic increases in maternal and infant ill-health & death. The Code regulates the marketing of breastmilk substitutes which includes infant formulas, follow-on formulas and any other food or drink, together with feeding bottles and teats, intended for babies and young children. Restricting marketing does not mean that the products cannot be sold, or that factual and scientific information about them cannot be made available. Neither does it restrict parent’s choice. It simply aims to make sure that their choices are made based on full, impartial information, rather than misleading, inaccurate or biased marketing claims. Ireland has only partially adopted the Code into legislation. This means that the marketing of follow-on milks, for example, (prohibited by the Code) is legally allowed in Ireland. This loophole allows widespread advertising on television, in print media, online and via billboards. By using similar branding for all their products companies can in effect advertise all their products while still staying within Irish law. In addition, the monitoring and enforcement of the Irish legislation is very weak which means that companies are rarely prosecuted for breaking the law. The marketing of infant formula is the main reason for the high prices of the products so the Code not only protects breastfed babies but also those who are formula fed. #WHOCode #TheCode #40thAnniversaryoftheCode

Every. Single. Day.

Q: Does Breastfeeding hurt? A: Breastfeeding shouldn't really hurt. Some people, when starting on a first time breastfeeding journey may experience some discomfort during latching for the first few days or so. The sensation however shouldn't be there for the whole feed and it should fade in the first week or two. If breastfeeding is really ouchy, like squint and hold your breath type thing, then its very likely baby is not attached properly. Get some support with latch and positioning straight away. Grinning and baring these feeds will likely lead to cracked nipples which is what we really want to avoid. #BreastfeddingTips #BreastfeedinginIreland #PandemicPregnancy

Q: Does Breastfeeding stop you from getting pregnant? A: Yes & No Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM) is an effective contraceptive method (98-99%, similar to contraceptive pills) when all criteria are met. There are three criteria that can be easily remembered using the three letters LAM* L - Lactation: full, or nearly full breastfeeding. This means not giving your baby any supplementary foods or fluids in addition to breastfeeding (greater than once or twice a week). A - Amenorrhea: the absence of menses (periods). You have you not had a menstrual bleed, or any bleed of > 2 days in duration (discounting any bleed in the first 2 months). M - Months: Baby is under 6 months of age. If one criteria is no longer met LAM cannot be relied upon for contraption. The other part of this is that sometimes people planning another baby worry that breastfeeding will stop them getting pregnant. For most people outside the LAM criteria this is not the case. Even if menses has not returned some women get pregnant on the first ovulation, before they have their first post-partum period. That said, if a family are eager to get pregnant, baby is over 12 moths of age and menses has not returned, if baby is still feeding frequently a reduction in feeding frequency, or of nighttime feeds, may support the return of menses. *Adapted from ABM Clinical Protocol #13 #pregnantandbreasfeeding #fertilityandbreastfeeding #pandemicpregnancy #BreastfeedingInIreland

Q: How long should you breastfeed for? A: There are guidelines around the optimal feeding of human infants, which I will discuss shortly, however breastfeeding is a relationship and many factors influence that. If a woman only wants to feed for a day, a week, or a month, or if she wants to feed until natural term weaning or anything in between - she should be supported in those choices. Support being the key word. What I want is a world where no one stops breastfeeding before they wanted to due to lack of appropriate support or information (the main cause of stopping feeding before someone wants to). The WHO recommends for optimal human development that infants are exclusively breastfeed until 6 months of age (no other foods, milks or drinks) and that they are continued to be fed, with a complementary diet of solids, until age 2 years or beyond. #pandemicpregnancy #breastfeedinginireland

I'm starting a new 'Ask me Anything' series. As a Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) I'm kicking off with the topic - Breastfeeding. I will spend the next few days (or weeks!) answering any questions that come in. You can comment your question below, DM me or answer the question in my stories. Questions will be answered in multiple ways, some with graphics or posts, in stories, reels or IGTV videos depending on the question! Don't be shy, there's no such thing as a silly question :) #pandemicpregnancy #breastfeedinginireland #breastfeedingquestions

The maternity restrictions have gone on too long. Pregnant women and people deserve to have proper care with their partner of choice by their side at all points. Enough is enough. @fiannafail @finegael The time has come to end the restrictions #BetterMaternityCare #EndMaternityRestrictionsNow

VBAC Workshops - Live Online Did you have a previous caesarean birth and are considering a vaginal birth this time? Coming along to one of my VBAC Workshops is a great way to help you feel confident in your decisions. These workshops can be taken at any time during your pregnancy and are in small groups or 1:1. What’s covered? • Informed decision making • Risks & Benefits of VBAC • Risks & Benefits of Repeat Caesarean Section • Communicating with your health care provider • Minimising risk of birth trauma • Having a VBAC in Ireland • Stages of Labour • Getting baby into optimal position in pregnancy • Positioning for labour • Working with your labour hormones for an easier birth • When to go to hospital • Overcoming challenges to VBAC • Pain Management & Comfort Measures • Partner role & partner support • Inductions & VBACs • Birth Preferences My next online group workshops are on • 29th May • 17th July - 11th September Each half day workshop has a maximum of 6 couple places so book early to avoid disappointment by sending a DM or emailing niamh@mybabybeginnings.ie Time: 10am-2.30pm (don't worry there will be breaks!) Cost: €90 per couple If you are interested in a private workshop these can be done in one 3hr weekend session or two 90min evening sessions and cost €120. DM or email niamh@mybabybeginnings.ie to arrange a time that suits you. #vbacsucess #VBACClass #VBACinIreland #PregnantinIreland #VBACWorkshop @antenatalireland @cuidiuofficialireland

It's Maternal Mental Health Week. Approximately 4-6% of people experience Birth Trauma. One of the biggest influencing factors is not the mode of birth, rather, how the person feels they were treated during birth. Research shows care providers have an important role to play in this and can be the reason why a women describes her birth as traumatic or not. Preventing birth trauma in this way is completely free and easy to do. **Check out my new blog on this very topic**Link in Bio. #MaternalMentalHealthWeek #maternatalmentalhealthmatters #pregnantinapandemic

Another year, another round of Continuous Professional Development complete to maintain my licence to practice with @cuidiuofficialireland @antenatalireland Proud to be part of such a high quality organisation.

Congratulations  to Deputy McEntee. The birth of her baby boy is an important moment in Irish political history. And of course even more important for the family themselves ❤️❤️❤️

#Repost - Posted @withregram • @antenatalireland It's Earth Day. What ideas do you have for reducing your family's environmental impact? Share below! #EarthDay #PregnantinaPandemic #ParentinginaPandemic