Differences between the gestalt method of fit and hold and biological nurturing or laid-back breastfeeding
| Gestalt method | Biological Nurturing or laid-back breastfeeding |
|---|---|
| Maternal education of gestalt biomechanics of infant suck-swallow (based on ultrasound studies, peer-reviewed and published) using knitted breast aid | Not based upon a biomechanical model of infant suck-swallow-breath |
| Semi-reclined to activate mammalian reflexes | Semi-reclined to activate mammalian reflexes |
| Start with baby's face planted into upper breast above nipple and areolar in order to activate mammalian reflexes | Start with baby's face skin-to-skin between breasts on chest in order to activate mammalian reflexes, requires mother to remove her clothing and significantly time intensive |
| Avoid shaping breast with hand to prevent breast tissue drag | Avoid shaping breast with hand to prevent breast tissue drag |
| Symmetrical face-breast bury (Thompson et al 2016) | n/a |
| Maternal education of concept of optimising intra-oral breast tissue volume using knitted breast | n/a |
| Maternal education of concept of the landing pad using knitted breast | n/a |
| Maternal education of concept of breast tissue drag using knitted breast | n/a |
| Hands-on support on woman's forearm by health professional, to help her lay down neurological pathways of micromovements | n/a |
| Pain scale 0-10 so woman can practice attending to sensation, report changes to clinician, and become empowered by her capacity to eliminate pain or discomfort with micromovements | n/a |
| Firm cushion support under elbow to optimise positional stability without maternal neck and shoulder muscle tension | n/a |
| Take 3 smart phone images to help parents remember at home | n/a |
| Use of strategies from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for mindfulness, attention to breast and nipple sensation, and baby's subtle cues | n/a |
| Integrated with the evidence-based neurobiological model of unsettled infant behaviour (explanation re dial on sympathetic nervous system) | n/a |
| Avoid burping rituals | n/a |
| Ribcage wrap optimises biomechanics of suck in newborns | n/a |
Selected references
Colson SD, Meek JH, Hawdon JM. Optimal positions for the release of primitive neonatal reflexes stimulating breastfeeding. Early Hum Dev. 2008;84:441-449.
Thompson RE, Kruske S, Barclay L, Linden K, Gao Y, Kildea SV. Potential predictors of nipple trauma from an in-home breastfeeding programme: a cross-sectional study. Women and Birth. 2016;29:336-344.
