AB Osteopathy 

Breastfeeding is the natural way of feeding an infant and provides important benefits for both the baby and the mother. ​It supports the baby’s immune system, contributes to overall development, and helps strengthen the bond between mother and child.

​

​Many mothers seek support for breastfeeding difficulties, including pain, latch challenges or babies who appear uncomfortable during feeds.

​

For feeding to be comfortable and effective, several elements need to work together:

• the baby’s oral mobility (jaw opening, tongue lift/movement)

• coordination of sucking, swallowing and breathing,

• the ability to latch effectively.

​

These mechanisms are also involved in bottle feeding but the mechanical demands are different. Feeding from a bottle generally requires less adaptation from the baby, which can sometimes mask underlying difficulties that become more apparent during breastfeeding.

​

When this balance is disrupted, feeding may become more challenging for both mother and baby.

​

Signs parents may notice- 

During Feeding:

• difficulty latching or staying latched
• frequent unlatching during feeds
• difficulty opening the mouth wide
• clicking sounds while feeding
• fussiness, arching or agitation at the breast
• falling asleep quickly at the breast

​

Baby's behaviour:

• frequent or inconsolable crying, irritability & frustration
• breast aversion or refusal
• baby is“unsettled” or difficult to soothe
• signs of an overactive or overwhelmed nervous system

• tension in the neck or body
• stiffness or extended (“strained”) posture
• difficulty settling in certain positions

​

After feeding:

• frequent air intake or burping
• digestive discomfort or gas, signs of "colics"
• difficulty settling after feeds, "needing" to be upright/held. 

​

 

Understanding feeding difficulties

​

Breastfeeding challenges are common and can have different causes.

They are often related to a baby’s adaptation after birth and the early days of feeding.

Some babies may present with tension, positional preferences or coordination difficulties, which can influence latch and feeding comfort. In most cases, appropriate support can help improve the feeding experience.

​

​

​​How Osteopathy can support

Osteopathy aims to assess and gently address areas of tension to support a baby’s mobility and overall development.

​

The jaw, tongue, tongue,cranium and facial muscles are closely connected and play an important role in feeding. When mobility in these areas is restricted, it may influence how a baby latches and feeds comfortably.

​

By supporting the baby’s movement and reducing tension, osteopathy aims to create more favourable conditions for efficient feeding and improved comfort.

​

Babies communicate in many ways; through their behaviour, their body and their responses during feeding. Understanding these signs can help guide appropriate support.

​

Treatment is always gentle and adapted to each baby’s individual needs.

The goal is to support both baby and mother during this important stage, helping to create a more comfortable and supported feeding journey.

​

Aurélie welcomes patients from Antibes, Monaco/ Beausoleil and across the French Riviera.

 

​