As a new mom in Singapore, you might face various breastfeeding challenges. Don’t worry – you’re not alone in your breastfeeding journey. Many mothers struggle, but there’s hope. Let’s explore how breastfeeding massage can help and where to find support in Singapore.
Common Breastfeeding Challenges
1. Low Milk Supply
Many moms worry they’re not producing enough milk for their babies. This common concern can cause stress and anxiety.
2. Breast Engorgement and Discomfort
Breast engorgement and clogged ducts can lead to painful, swollen breasts. This discomfort can make breastfeeding a challenging experience.
3. Latch Issues
A poor latch can cause nipple pain and inadequate milk transfer. It’s a frequent hurdle for new moms and babies.
4. Mastitis
This inflammation of breast tissue can cause fever, pain, and flu-like symptoms. It’s often a result of untreated blocked ducts.
What is Breastfeeding Massage?
Breast massage, also known as lactation massage, is a specialized service that helps breastfeeding mothers address common challenges and improve their milk supply.
Benefits of Breastfeeding Massage
1. Boosts Milk Production
Massage stimulates milk-making hormones, addressing low milk supply concerns. Regular massage can increase your milk production, ensuring your baby gets enough nutrition.
2. Eases Engorgement and Prevents Clogged Ducts
Gentle massage helps break down milk blockages, reducing pain and swelling. This technique can prevent more serious issues like mastitis and blocked milk ducts, addressing the challenge of breast pain and discomfort.
3. Improves Latch
By softening the breast tissue, massage can make it easier for your baby to latch correctly. This addresses latch issues, reducing nipple pain and improving milk transfer.
4. Enhances Bonding
The skin-to-skin contact during massage releases oxytocin, the “love hormone”. This deepens the bond between you and your baby, making breastfeeding a more enjoyable experience.
5. Reduces Risk of Mastitis
Regular massage helps prevent clogged milk ducts from developing into mastitis. It keeps milk flowing freely, reducing the risk of this painful condition.
Lactation Consultants in Singapore
While you can learn basic massage techniques, sometimes you need expert help. Here are some highly-rated lactation consultants in Singapore:
1. Alona Hodik IBCLC
For expert breastfeeding support, Alona runs the highly-rated Belly to Breastfeeding practice, which has a 5-star rating based on 59 reviews. She offers home and online consultations to support you on your breastfeeding journey
Website: https://www.bellytobreastfeeding.com
2. Hegen Lactation Centre SG
Located at Alexandra Technopark, this center provides lactation consultation and antenatal classes. They boast a 5-star rating based on 316 reviews.
Contact: +65 8874 0452, Email: [email protected]
3. Tender Loving Milk
Situated in Compassvale Crescent, Tender Loving Milk offers home visits and has a 5-star rating from 30 reviews.
Website: https://tenderlovingmilk.com
4. Thomson ParentCraft Centre
Part of Thomson Medical, this centre offers lactation consultants, breastfeeding consultations, and antenatal courses. It has a 5-star rating based on 113 reviews.
Contact: 6251 4090
Website: https://www.thomsonmedical.com/lactation-consultation
5. SGH Lactation Clinic
The Singapore General Hospital (SGH) Lactation Clinic is a popular option for lactation consultation.
Address: O&G Centre (Blk 5 Level 1), Singapore General Hospital
Contact: 6321 4323 / 6326 5926
Hours: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm on weekdays
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Lactation
Lactation massage Singapore offers a unique perspective on breastfeeding and lactation massage through Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Here are some reputable TCM clinics in Singapore:
1. BaoMa – Pre & Postnatal Care
Rating: 4.9 (128 reviews)
Address: 80 Marine Parade Road, #03-02/03 Parkway Parade, Singapore 449269
Website: https://baoma.com.sg
BaoMa specializes in pre and postnatal care, which often includes lactation support.
2. Flower Moon TCM Service Pte. Ltd.
Rating: 4.6 (22 reviews)
Address: 101 Irrawaddy Road, #15-02, Royal Square Medical Centre, Singapore 329565
Website: https://tcmconfinement.com
Flower Moon Clinic specifically offers lactation massage in Singapore, aiming to increase milk supply for breastfeeding mothers.
TCM Approach
TCM views breastfeeding issues as energy imbalances. Practitioners use techniques like acupuncture and herbal remedies alongside massage. TCM massage often focuses on specific acupoints believed to boost milk production and improve blood circulation, including points on the back, shoulders, and breasts.
Always consult your doctor before trying TCM treatments, especially if you’re taking other medications.
Breastfeeding Support Groups in Singapore
Sometimes, the best support comes from other breastfeeding moms. Here’s a notable support group in Singapore:
Breastfeeding Mothers’ Support Group (BMSG)
Address: SCWO, 96 Waterloo Street, #02-04, Singapore 187967
Contact: +65 6339 3558
Website: https://breastfeeding.org.sg
5/5 stars from 28 reviews. Support for breastfeeding mums.
Why join a support group?
- Share with other mums
- Get tips and advice
- Get support during tough times
What to expect in support groups
Meetings are casual discussions, Q&A with lactation experts, and hands-on demonstrations of techniques like breastfeeding massage to improve milk flow.
Conclusion
Breastfeeding massage is a game changer for new mums in Singapore. It helps with low milk supply, breast pain, latch issues and risk of mastitis. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. From lactation consultants to TCM practitioners and support groups, Singapore has plenty of resources to help you succeed.
You got this mama! With the right help and breastfeeding massage, you can conquer!
