A Case Study of Biological Nurturing.

Abstract

This case of a mother and her two children, born 20 years apart, highlights how Biological Nurturing (BN) supported a woman in meeting her personal breastfeeding goals. We know lack of breastfeeding support contributes to early weaning. Applying the principles of BN (unrestricted and laid-back breastfeeding) enabled this mother to return to breastfeeding without supplements. After giving birth to her first son prematurely in 1997, the dyad was separated, and formula introduced. These interventions, combined with inadequate breastfeeding support, resulted in low milk supply and unplanned weaning by week six. In 2017, a full term sibling baby girl was born, with breastfeeding again beginning with concerns of low milk supply. Consultation with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant successfully addressed common breastfeeding problems, including vasospasm and insufficient milk supply. Continuous emotional support helped this mother overcome perceived insufficient milk supply. Introducing BN led to breastfeeding without supplementation, by enabling the dyad to experience enjoyment, comfort and feeding autonomy. While the repeated experience of insufficient milk supply two decades apart constituted a psychological barrier to exclusive breastfeeding, BN enabled reaching this mother's breastfeeding goals. BN appears to be a powerful tool for both breastfeeding initiation and overcoming breastfeeding difficulties, potentially setting new best practice standards.