OccupationalTherapy.com Phone: 866-782-9924


What Role Can Occupational Therapy Practitioners Play in Supporting Lactation for New Mothers?

Jennifer L. Campanella, OTD, OTR/L, CBS

November 1, 2024

Share:

Question

What role can occupational therapy practitioners play in supporting lactation for new mothers?

Answer

Occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs) can be crucial in supporting lactation by addressing the mother’s physical and emotional well-being and providing education and guidance. Their support can start prenatally, where OTPs educate mothers about what to expect, helping them feel prepared and confident. This early education empowers mothers to recognize normal breastfeeding patterns and when to seek assistance. During lactation, OTPs may provide guidance on proper nutrition and hydration, emphasizing the caloric needs for sustaining milk production. Additionally, they can offer strategies for effective pumping, stress management through relaxation techniques, and facilitating skin-to-skin contact to promote bonding and milk supply.

A key part of an OTP’s role is helping mothers navigate the various challenges that arise in breastfeeding, such as ensuring proper latch and addressing any discomforts or concerns. They support mothers’ individual feeding choices, whether they choose to exclusively breastfeed, pump, or supplement with formula. OTPs also play a critical role in assessing and supporting maternal mental health, differentiating between common “baby blues” and more severe postpartum depression, and ensuring mothers have access to appropriate resources. By taking a holistic approach, OTPs contribute to the mother’s overall well-being during the breastfeeding journey.

This Ask the Expert is an edited excerpt from the course, Occupational Therapy Practitioner's Role in Lactation, presented by Jennifer L. Campanella, OTD, OTR/L, CBS.


jennifer l campanella

Jennifer L. Campanella, OTD, OTR/L, CBS

Jennifer Campanella is an occupational therapist with over 25 years of experience working with infants, young children, and their families. She completed her degree at Elizabethtown College and her doctoral degree in occupational therapy from Gannon University.  In addition, she is certified in the Sensory Integration and Praxis Test and is a Certified Breastfeeding Specialist. Professional interests include sensory processing, feeding, and working within a caregiver coaching model. Jennifer is a clinical professor in the occupational therapy department at Nazareth University and an occupational therapist at LEAP for Kids in Rochester, New York. 


Related Courses

Introduction To Breastfeeding And The Role Of The Occupational Therapy Practitioner
Presented by Jennifer L. Campanella, OTD, OTR/L, CBS
Video

Presenter

Jennifer L. Campanella, OTD, OTR/L, CBS
Course: #6515Level: Introductory1 Hour
  'great course'   Read Reviews
The anatomy and physiology of breastfeeding mothers and infants, the essentials of proper positioning, and what to do when there are challenges will be introduced in this course. In addition, this course will explain and highlight the occupational therapy practitioner's role and breastfeeding as an occupation.

Feeding Development: What Is Typical?
Presented by Rhonda Mattingly Williams, EdD, CCC-SLP
Video

Presenter

Rhonda Mattingly Williams, EdD, CCC-SLP
Course: #5847Level: Introductory1 Hour
  'The speaker was very knowledgeable and detailed'   Read Reviews
An introduction to multiple factors associated with feeding development including a review of typical milestones is reviewed in this course. A summary of conditions that can disrupt the normal process is also introduced.

Overview of Prematurity and Associated Conditions
Presented by Rhonda Mattingly Williams, EdD, CCC-SLP
Video

Presenter

Rhonda Mattingly Williams, EdD, CCC-SLP
Course: #5848Level: Introductory1 Hour
  'Presenter very informative'   Read Reviews
An introduction to prematurity and co-occurring problems and diagnoses will be provided in this course. The outcomes associated with early experiences and short-term and long-term complications are discussed in feeding and development.

Foundations of Feeding Therapy for OTs: Anatomy, Physiology, Terms, and Tools
Presented by Samantha Heidenreich, OTD, MOT
Video

Presenter

Samantha Heidenreich, OTD, MOT
Course: #5382Level: Introductory1 Hour
  'Very informative'   Read Reviews
This course provides a foundational overview of the anatomy and physiology of the orofacial complex related to feeding therapy. The course also teaches commonly used terminology in this field of practice and provides an overview of therapeutic tools and their uses specifically for pediatric feeding therapy.

Car Seats for Children with Special Needs
Presented by Ashley Fogle, PT, DPT, Danielle Morris, PT, DPT, PCS, CPST, C/NDT
Video

Presenters

Ashley Fogle, PT, DPTDanielle Morris, PT, DPT, PCS, CPST, C/NDT
Course: #4371Level: Introductory2 Hours
  'Clear and concise information'   Read Reviews
Children with special needs are at an increased risk for injury when traveling in vehicles. Class participants will explore design features and accessories of car seats and large medical child safety seats that will improve positioning and safety during transportation.

Our site uses cookies to improve your experience. By using our site, you agree to our Privacy Policy.