The Alchemy of Connection: A Fundamental Ingredient When Supporting Breastfeeding Dyads

Abstract

BackgroundEvery encounter in lactation care should aim to set the ground for an emerging human connection between the lactation consultant (LC) and the breastfeeding mother. Cultivating connection is as important as adequate clinical competencies and effective communication skills.MethodsThe article proposes a hermeneutics of care that articulates elements that enhance the understanding between the LC and the circumstances and realities of the breastfeeding dyad in the context of diagnosis, management, and healing. These elements can be best described by Martin Buber's (2013) I–Thou approach, which we use to enter into a relationship.ResultsWhen the LC has the courage and humility to convey her full presence for that mother and her circumstances, connection has been primed. The quality and depth of the LC– breastfeeding mother relationship, in turn, enhances diagnosis and healing options, particularly in chronic cases.ConclusionsThe “alchemy of connection” opens the ground for a relation of mutual trust between the LC and the mother and her world, which supports better breastfeeding care.