Talking with Patients How to Discuss Breastfeeding with Mothers Goals and Objectives Initiate and participate in conversations regarding breastfeeding with mothers. Describe at least 2 risk factors for mothers needing extra attention when discussing feeding. Influences on Feeding Choice Personal experiences Family Friends Provider attitudes Community Personal Comfort Culture and Beliefs Past experiences Knowledge Believe in the message When to Talk Early and often During labor Within 1hr of delivery Prior to discharge Nonverbal Cues Body language Eye contact Sit at patients level Remove barriers Actively listen Starting the Talk No right answers Open ended questions Patient lead discussion Openers Your new patient is a first time mother admitted for a scheduled induction. How would you start the discussion on breastfeeding with her? What words do you use? Words Matter Simple language Non-judgmental words Stay positive Questions with no wrong answers Language exercise Rewrite these questions/statements: Is the baby feeding often enough? Are you making good milk? Are you having any difficulty with engorgement? Is your baby growing well? Do not give anything other than breastmilk to the baby for the first 6 months. Language and Culture Interpreter services Ask if you dont know Identify potentially harmful practices and redirect Support healthy practices Encouragement Support Be a team player Physical support Emotional support Medical support Difficult Situations Language and cultural barriers Family issues Medical situations Family Issues Ask about the mothers home and family Report abuse or neglect Talking to the whole family improves support Medical Situations Emergencies Chronic diseases Provide additional support Refer early to lactation consultant Finishing Up Reiterate main points Answer questions Encourage Offer ongoing support services Printed materials Last Thoughts Questions? Take home points