In this episode of Behind the Latch, Margaret Salty dives into the details of a triple feeding plan, a comprehensive strategy used to support breastfeeding when infants face challenges such as poor weight gain or low milk supply in mothers. Margaret breaks down the three critical steps of a triple feeding plan—breastfeeding, pumping, and supplementing—into actionable strategies for IBCLCs. Whether you're an experienced lactation consultant or just starting your journey, this episode equips you with evidence-based guidance for managing complex breastfeeding situations.

Read more about calculating required milk intake: https://margaretsalty.com/2024/02/08/calculating-supplement/

Key Points Covered:

1: Introduction to Triple Feeding Plans

Margaret introduces triple feeding as a three-step approach designed to address breastfeeding challenges. This plan is particularly useful when an infant has difficulty latching, poor weight gain, or when there are concerns about the mother's milk supply. The three essential steps are:

1. Breastfeeding: Attempt breastfeeding first to allow the infant to practice latching and feeding directly from the breast, which stimulates milk production and supports breastfeeding skills.
2. Pumping: After breastfeeding, the mother should pump to maintain and boost her milk supply. Pumping ensures that milk production continues to meet the baby's needs even when breastfeeding alone isn’t fully effective.
3. Supplementing: Offer the baby supplementation with expressed breast milk, donor milk, or formula, using methods that support breastfeeding, such as a Supplemental Nursing System (SNS), cup feeding, or paced bottle feeding. This ensures the infant gets adequate nutrition while efforts to improve breastfeeding continue.

2: Real-World Case Example: Implementing a Triple Feeding Plan

Margaret shares a real-world case involving a mom and her newborn, who was experiencing breastfeeding difficulties due to a rough start. The triple feeding plan implemented included:

• Breastfeeding
• Pumping
• Supplementing

3: Practical Application for IBCLCs

Margaret provides practical tips for IBCLCs to effectively implement triple feeding plans:

• Assessment and Customization: Begin with a thorough breastfeeding assessment to identify specific challenges and customize the triple feeding plan to the needs of each dyad.
• Parent Education and Support: Educate parents on the goals of triple feeding, emphasizing that this approach is a temporary strategy to support breastfeeding success. Provide clear, step-by-step instructions and emotional support throughout the process.
• Monitor and Adjust: Regular follow-ups to monitor infant weight gain, milk supply, and breastfeeding progress are critical. Adjust the plan as needed, with the goal of eventually transitioning to exclusive breastfeeding.

Conclusion:

Staying updated with the latest research and integrating evidence-based practices like triple feeding can make a significant difference in breastfeeding outcomes. By implementing these strategies, IBCLCs can provide comprehensive support to breastfeeding families. Tune in each week for more insights and practical tips from the world of lactation science.

References:

1. Kellams, A., et al. (2017). ABM Clinical Protocol #3: Supplementary Feedings in the Healthy Term Breastfed Neonate. Breastfeeding Medicine, 12(3). DOI: 10.1089/bfm.2017.29038.ajk

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Have questions or want to suggest a topic? Reach out to Margaret at margaretsalty.com or connect on social media:

• Instagram: @margaretsalty
• Facebook: Margaret Salty

Don't forget to share this episode with fellow IBCLCs or students who could benefit from these insights into triple feeding strategies!

Credits:

• Hosted by: Margaret Salty
• Music by: The Magnifiers, "My Time Traveling Machine"

Hashtags and Keywords:

#IBCLC #TripleFeeding #BreastfeedingSupport #LactationConsultant #LactationMentor #EvidenceBasedPractice