In honour of breastfeeding week 2024: A chat with our expert lactation consultant, Celine Desmet

31 Jul 2024

Can you tell us a bit about your background and what led you to become a lactation consultant?

I am originally a pharmacist! My own motherhood and breastfeeding experience with my four children inspired me to become a lactation consultant. I find it very rewarding to be able to support families during the feeding journey with their new baby.

What are some common misconceptions people have about breastfeeding that you often encounter?

People often expect they will have a copious milk supply straight after giving birth and are surprised that the first milk, called colostrum, comes in such small volumes. Don’t be discouraged if you initially only see a few drops of milk. Colostrum provides babies with all the nutrients they need in the first few days and will gradually transition into mature breastmilk.

Another misconception is that mothers shouldn’t eat certain foods such as cauliflower or broccoli as they are worried it will cause gas in their baby’s tummy. You would have to eat multiple kilograms of it before it has an effect on your baby! As a breastfeeding mum you can eat everything, a normal balanced diet is best. The only drink to avoid is alcohol.

Oh, and you don’t need to drink a lot of milk in order to produce breastmilk!

What are some of the most common challenges new mothers face with breastfeeding?

Many breastfeeding mothers experience some degree of nipple damage and pain in the first few days but the biggest challenge of the newborn period in general is the interrupted sleep. Initially babies have an opposite day/night rhythm and will be more awake at night. The best thing to do is to try to nap with your baby during the day.

How does breastfeeding impact a mother’s health and wellbeing?

Breastfeeding lowers the mother’s risk for non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and even some cancers. Breastfeeding also helps to get back to pre-pregnancy weight sooner and promotes bonding with your baby.

What are the benefits of breastfeeding for the baby’s development and health?

Breastfeeding offers so many benefits but the most important one for me is the impact on a child’s immunity. Breastmilk not only provides acute protection against infections but also helps build up a child’s life long immune system, it also supports the development of a strong gut microbiome.

What is one piece of advice you wish every new mother knew about breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding isn’t as challenging as is often thought. The trick is to be in tune with your baby. Watch your baby, learn to recognise their body language and respond to it. Also, I recommend all mothers have regular skin to skin contact with their baby. It is so powerful, both for mum and baby.

Are there any new trends or developments in lactation consulting that you’re excited about?

I am fascinated about the composition of breastmilk. It is a living food, a magic mix of numerous components, many of which we don’t fully know yet. There is ongoing research happening which is very exciting.

In terms of a new trend, the wireless (portable) breast pumps are becoming more and more popular. They offer mothers a more practical and convenient way of expressing breastmilk.

If someone is interested in seeking personalised support or learning more about breastfeeding, how can they book an appointment with you?

We offer both antenatal and postnatal breastfeeding consultations at the Pregnancy, Baby & Beyond Clinic, situated in St John of God Subiaco Hospital. You can book an appointment by phoning 08 9382 6639 or emailing [email protected]