Breastfeeding a baby with hip dysplasia

Hip Dysplasia

When a baby has hip dysplasia, treatment generally includes a device that will maintain their hips in an open position, such as abduction pants , a Pavlik harness, splints, and sometimes even a cast. This can make positioning at the breast complicated, since the baby must keep their hips spread and their legs are held in a rigid device.

Breastfeeding a baby who has hip dysplasia

One may also experience nipple pain, rigid equipment digging into the belly, or a position where the baby's head is turned and therefore suboptimal (as in this photo).

baby with hip dysplasia

For personalized support, even via video call, do not hesitate to make an appointment: we will study the possibilities to make breastfeeding as comfortable as possible for you and your baby.

Breastfeeding Positions when baby has a hip dysplasia

Which positions should you try in this case? Here are some ideas:

• Koala hold The mother has a straight back and positions the baby sitting on her knees, facing the breast. A small footstool may be necessary to rest her feet so that the baby is at the correct height.

• Baby sitting in a sling This is one of the positions preferred by a mother I supported: baby in the sling (without the abduction pants if the medical team authorizes it) vertically facing the mother.

• Semi-reclined position The baby is lying on the mother, belly-to-belly.

• The standing position, baby lying on a high table and the mother leans over him. Not very comfortable but can help out at the beginning.

• The adapted cradle hold As in this photo, but the risk is that the baby turns their head (uncomfortable and pulls on the nipple).

• The football/rugby hold Many mothers find that this position works well.

  
  

Having cushions and rolled towels nearby will allow you to prop yourself up well, but also to add a layer between your body and the rigid equipment. It will be up to each mother to find what suits her and her baby best!

Please contact me for advice or questions: "My Baby Moon" by Elise Armoiry, IBCLC lactation consultant & founder of My Baby Moon.

More than 2,000 families supported since 2014. Doctor of Pharmacy by training, specialized in breastfeeding and sleep, trained with Dr. Pam Douglas.

Email: info@mybabymoonibclc.com Tel: 07.49.50.67.82 Website: https://www.mybabymoonibclc.com/

book an appointment with Elise

Resources on this subject: Australian site: https://www.breastfeeding.asn.au/resources/breastfeeding-baby-hip-dysplasia