PRE-NATAL APPOINTMENTS
For pre-natal breastfeeding education and preparation, the best time to see Dr Chang is in the mid second trimester to early third trimester. At this appointment we will take a focused history and examination. We will discuss the essential aspects of breastfeeding including the two most important things to remember (I know there’s information overload during pregnancy). If you have medical or surgical conditions, or are on medications, we will explore how these affect infant feeding and vice versa. We will develop an early breastfeeding plan for the day your baby arrives. If you have diabetes, we may discuss antenatal expression of colostrum.
For induced lactation the ideal time for the first appointment is in the first trimester.
Questions are welcome, so if you have a list, please bring them!
POST-NATAL APPOINTMENTS
When a family experiences hiccups in their breastfeeding journey, timely assistance is important. Breastfeeding should NEVER hurt. The earlier breastfeeding issues are addressed, the quicker the problems are solved. Outsource your post-partum concerns – get help early. Dr Julie Chang aims to see mother/baby within 3 days.
A comprehensive history and examination for mother and baby, as well as breastfeeding observation will be undertaken during the 60 to 90 minute appointment. We will develop a written feeding/settling plan together that is practical, and evidence based, in tandem with your goals. We will address your concerns and answer your questions. You may be referred for investigations or specialist assessment if required. A 30 minute telehealth follow up (telephone or video) will take place within 10 days. You and your baby may or may not require face-to-face follow up with Dr Chang after that.
In addition to yourself and your baby, feel free to bring a support person on the day. Please also bring your baby’s “Green Book”, the hospital discharge summary and your referral letter. If you use the following, please bring them along as well: breast pump, bottles, nipple shields, feeding devices, pacifiers and/or breastfeeding pillow. If you can bring a muslin wrap and a bath towel that would be great. Bring your list of questions you want answered on the day. Don’t forget the nappy bag!
It is important for us to observe a breastfeed for an infant feeding consultation. Ideally, baby is ready for a feed at the time of the appointment. However, if the little one is hungry, please do not withhold the feed- give only half a feed before the appointment. This will allow us to still carry out a thorough assessment during the appointment.
Studies have consistently shown that most babies with tongue ties breastfeed well with skilled lactation support. Dr Chang will carefully assess your baby for a tongue tie and help you achieve the best position and latch. Nipple shield may be recommended temporarily. However, if there is a tongue tie and this continues to cause issues then Dr Chang will refer your baby to a Paediatrician/GP for a tongue-tie release.
Most mother-baby pairs require only one initial face-to-face appointment followed by one telehealth appointment within 10 days of the initial appointment. We never want cost to be a barrier to quality follow up post-natal care. So, the telehealth follow-up within 10 days of the initial appointment will not incur any out-of-pocket costs.
In most cases, your General Practitioner or Maternal Child Health Nurse will be best suited to care for you and your baby after these two consultations with Dr Chang. Dr Chang will ensure a comprehensive letter is sent in a timely fashion to facilitate future care.
Dr Chang will advise the ideal follow up arrangements to aid your decision making regarding follow up.