Breastfeeding Support in Christchurch — What New Mums Need to Know

Breastfeeding is natural, but it doesn’t always come naturally. Many new mums in Christchurch seek help within the first few days — not because they’re doing anything wrong, but because feeding is a learned skill for both mum and baby.

As an IBCLC lactation consultant, here’s what Christchurch parents should know about getting support early.

❤️ Why breastfeeding support matters

Early feeding challenges can quickly lead to nipple pain, supply issues, or stress around feeding. Getting help early often prevents these problems from becoming serious.

Common early concerns include:

  • Trouble latching
  • Painful feeds
  • Milk supply worries
  • A baby who won’t stay on the breast
  • Unsettled or sleepy feeding
  • Difficulty expressing or introducing bottles

These are all issues that respond well to early assessment.

🏡 Home visits in Christchurch

A home visit allows an IBCLC to see exactly what is happening in your real environment — your couch, your pillows, your baby’s behaviour. This makes support more accurate and personalised.

During a home visit, I assess:

  • How your baby latches and sucks
  • How they behave at the breast
  • Milk transfer and swallowing patterns
  • Your positioning and comfort
  • Baby’s oral function
  • Feeding history
  • Any medical factors affecting feeding

This leads to a clear, personalised plan so you know what to focus on.

💛 Virtual support

For families outside Christchurch or those who need urgent support, virtual sessions work extremely well. A baby’s feeding behaviour is very visible on video, and most latch issues can be resolved with coaching and adjustments.

⭐ When to seek help

If you’re experiencing:

  • Nipple pain
  • Persistent unsettled feeding
  • Low or high supply
  • Slow weight gain
  • Mastitis symptoms
  • Bottle refusal
  • Trouble expressing
  • Concerns with latch

An IBCLC can help quickly and effectively.

📞 Getting breastfeeding support

Support is available via home visits across Christchurch & Canterbury or virtual consults anywhere in NZ. Early help makes everything easier.

Julia Daly 0220606657