How Osteopathy Can Support Breastfeeding for Mum and Baby – Dr Alana Merkel

Breastfeeding is often described as “natural” – but that doesn’t mean it’s always easy.

For many new mums, feeding their baby can come with unexpected challenges. Sore nipples, unsettled babies, poor latch, or concerns about milk supply can quickly turn what should be a bonding experience into a stressful one. If you’re feeling this way, you’re not alone… and importantly, there is support available!

At Northside Therapies, we regularly work with mums and babies to help make breastfeeding more comfortable, effective, and enjoyable.

Why breastfeeding can be harder than expected

The World Health Organisation recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, with continued breastfeeding beyond this if possible. Breastmilk provides ideal nutrition and immune protection that adapts perfectly to your baby’s needs.

However, research shows that up to half of mothers stop breastfeeding within the first month, often due to biomechanical or feeding difficulties rather than a lack of desire to continue.

Some common challenges include:

· Difficulty latching

· Poor or shallow sucking

· Baby becoming fatigued or frustrated during feeds

· Maternal nipple pain

· Poor weight gain or signs of dehydration in the baby

· Concerns around milk supply

In many cases, these issues aren’t about “doing something wrong” – they’re related to how baby’s body is moving and functioning.

How a baby’s body affects feeding

Birth is a big physical event for babies. Whether labour was long or fast, assisted or uncomplicated, newborns can develop tightness or restrictions in areas that are essential for feeding, such as:

· The neck and upper spine

· Jaw and facial muscles

· Tongue and mouth coordination

· Rib cage and diaphragm

These restrictions can make it harder for babies to open their mouth fully, maintain a deep latch, or generate an effective sucking pattern.

How can an osteopath help?

Paediatric osteopaths are specially trained to assess and treat the musculoskeletal system of infants using very gentle, hands-on techniques. Treatments are subtle and comfortable – often described as lighter than the pressure needed to bruise a ripe tomato.

At Northside Therapies, an osteopathic appointment for breastfeeding support may include:

· A thorough history of pregnancy, birth, and feeding

· Gentle assessment of your baby’s neck, jaw, spine, and head

· Observation of a breastfeed (if you’re comfortable)

· Assessment of mum’s posture, upper back, and rib movement

· Advice on positioning and latch techniques

Our goal is to support both mum and baby as a team! Improving comfort, efficiency, and confidence with feeding.

Signs your baby may be struggling with feeding

Some signs that your baby may not be feeding effectively include:

· Frequent slipping on and off the breast

· Clicking sounds while feeding

· Short or very long feeds

· Falling asleep quickly at the breast

· Gassiness, reflux-like symptoms, or unsettled behaviour

· Ongoing nipple pain for mum

These signs don’t mean breastfeeding has to stop – they often mean it needs support.

What does a good latch look like?

A comfortable, effective latch usually includes:

· Wide open mouth (like a big yawn)

· Lips flanged outward

· Chin resting against the breast

· Nose close to the breast

· Full cheeks (not dimpling)

· No pinching or sharp pain for mum

You should feel gentle pulling or pressure – not pain.

You don’t have to do this alone!

Breastfeeding challenges can be physically and emotionally exhausting. The good news is that many issues improve with the right combination of gentle manual therapy, education, and reassurance.

At Northside Therapies, we work collaboratively alongside lactation consultants, midwives, and other health professionals to provide patient-centred, supportive care for mums and babies, and we will always refer if necessary.

Breastfeeding should be a calm, nourishing, and bonding experience. With the right help, it often becomes exactly that.

If you’re struggling with feeding or simply want reassurance that things are on track, we’re here to help