Telehealth has risen in popularity over the course of the pandemic. Statistics show that
1 in 4 people have used it as a substitute for physically visiting healthcare providers. It
has become a relatively accessible form of healthcare that lessens the risk of people
catching the COVID-19 virus. For mothers who have just given birth or have a baby
at home, this is ideal as it can keep them and their child healthy.
Telehealth can also play a role in helping them breastfeed their children. With so
many misconceptions surrounding breastfeeding, such as that it comes naturally for everyone, or that it can easily be replaced with formula, telehealth can play a major
role in helping the moms at the vulnerable time when they need help immediately.
Here are the different ways telehealth can change that and help moms cope with the
difficulties and confusion:
Helps educate
This method of healthcare uses technology to communicate with people from
anywhere and can be done at any time. New and expecting moms can easily schedule
a consultation with a healthcare professional to ask any questions they may have
regarding breastfeeding. They will then be given useful information and tips that can
make the process easier.
This can range from learning the right way to hold your baby so they are comfortable
and what kind of creams to use if your nipples are sore or cracking. They can also tell
you the benefits of breastfeeding for your child. When a mom is more educated on the
topic, they will find breastfeeding less daunting and may be willing to try it.
Telehealth is a great resource especially for mothers who like to get professional help
at the comfort of their home, not able to travel with a baby or have busy schedules.
Provides personalized care
Many doctors and healthcare practitioners may have lots of patients that they care for
on a regular basis. Especially during the pandemic, even more people are seeking out
healthcare more actively than they used to. This may lead to being offered general
care that may or may not work for you. With the accessibility that telehealth
offers, specialty care is within everyone’s reach.
Moms will be assigned to professionals who can work through any issues they may
have. The practitioners will also be able to keep in mind any other personal issues or
concerns you may have like your medical history and lifestyle activities that
contribute to difficulties with breastfeeding. This kind of care will be able to assure
you that you are in good hands and you are receiving the best advice possible. They
can assess whether or not breastfeeding is the right choice for you and your baby
what other options you have at your disposal.
Can offer support
Moms will often have breastfeeding goals, whether it’s being able to feed their child
exclusively at breast or to pump to provide milk for them. But it’s not unheard of for
mothers to fall short of their goals. This can become very stressful and may cause
some mental distress; on top of the exhaustion you experience caring for a baby.
Many telehealth providers offer their services 24/7, so they will be able to offer you
support when you need it the most. If you are struggling with the process, simply have
a virtual consultation with your healthcare professional who can then help provide you
with the information you require or refer you to a Lactation Consultant. They can also
assure you that it is normal for breastfeeding moms to struggle, especially at the
beginning. Being able to call on physical and mental health support will make
breastfeeding less taxing and can give you the motivation to continue.
Telehealth can be a big help to new moms who are struggling with breastfeeding.
They will be able to offer useful information, personalized care, and support that will
help you take on the challenge head-on.
Contributed by Danielle Chu, RN, BSN, IBCLC