Feeding and Function

Feeding is not just about the mouth.

One of the most overlooked parts of infant feeding is body structure and function because babies feed with their entire body, not just their latch.

A baby’s ability to:

• comfortably turn their head BOTH directions

• tolerate tummy time

• use their neck, shoulders, and core muscles well

• maintain proper jaw alignment and tongue function

• stay organized and relaxed during feeding

…all plays a role in feeding success.

When babies have tension, tightness, torticollis, body asymmetry, jaw restriction, oral tension, or difficulty using their muscles effectively, it can impact:

• latch quality

• milk transfer

• nipple pain

• breast refusal

• reflux-like symptoms

• clicking or leaking milk

• feeding fatigue

• slow weight gain

• overall feeding progression

This is why a thorough feeding assessment should look at the WHOLE baby not just the mouth.

Tummy time, positional variety, body movement, and addressing structural tension can make a significant difference in feeding outcomes for some infants.

Sometimes feeding challenges are not simply a “supply issue.”

Sometimes the body is communicating that additional support may be needed.

Feeding is functional.

And function involves the entire body working together.

At Lavender Lactation, we believe in looking at the full picture to support both baby and parent through the feeding journey.