It is important to remember that breastfeeding is a learned skill, both for you and for your baby. Even though it is natural, it doesn’t always come naturally!
More often than not, breastfeeding issues will develop and your recognition of them and prompt request for help will prevent the problem from worsening and enable you to continue to breastfeed for as long as you would like.
Acupuncture treatment can be effective for breastfeeding problems such as diminished milk flow or mastitis. Treatment should be sought as soon as there is a problem. However, it is important to realize that prompt expert advice on feeding positions and the correct drainage of the milk passages is also a vital part of treatment.
Below are some community resources for breastfeeding. It is wise to look into support even before your baby arrives so you have experts to contact as soon as you need them.
Resources
Online resources:
- Jack Newman’s articles and videos on breastfeeding (common problems and solutions)
- Mothering magazine’s forum
- Motherisk
- La Leche League Canada: 416-483-3368 (for information about groups in your area)
- The Newman Breastfeeding Clinic and Institute, in the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, 1255 Sheppard Avenue EastToronto, M2K 1E2, tel: 416-498-0002 (There is a registration fee for the first visit, but the rest is usually covered by OHIP as Dr. Newman is a pediatrician)
- NEW ! Alliston Clinic, Newman Breastfeeding Clinic & Institute, Town Square, 35 Victoria Street E, Unit 7, Alliston, ON, L9R 1V8. To make an appointment in Alliston, email breastfeeding@ccnm.edu and respond to the auto reply.
- Breastfeeding Resources Centre, at the Toronto East General Hospital: Drop-in Monday to Sunday 10AM to 3PM, tel: 416-469-6667 (4MY-MOMS)
- Out-Patient Breastfeeding Clinic, St-Joseph Health Centre, by appointment only (afternoons)., tel: 416-530-6331. St-Joseph Health Centre also offers excellent breastfeeding seminars (10$ per person or 15$ per couple), call 416-530-6367 for information.
- Toronto Public Health nurses can help you breastfeed your baby (free home visits), 416-338-7600
- To find a lactation consultant (home visits/fee) near you, click here.
Call 647-428-7200 to book a Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shiatsu Therapy, Naturopathic Medicine or Meditation Guidance appointment – or to discuss which treatments might be best for you, including the care of a DONA certified birth doula.
