Hi All

The Lactation Institute offers several Intensive Seminars. I attended
the most recent Suck Evaluation and Training Intensive. There was quite
a lot of information covered, attention to detail, as well as a binder
full of articles to read. The class size was small with time for
discussion and hands on interaction. (I have no financial interest).
Chele Marmet is a very dedicated and caring person with years of
clinical experience.

Palatal examination/evaluation and suck training are a part of the
intensive seminar. Mouth models (Called the "Jacqui") are only one tool
used to help students have a better understanding of reference and non
reference palate shapes. Unfortunately the models are no longer carried
by Childbirth Graphics.

There are several articles of interest on this topic. Please let me know
if you need additional citations.  "Training Neonates to Suck Correctly"
(Marmet and Shell MCN 84 Vol 9 No 6) is a great starting point.
"Variation in Infant Palatal Structure and Breastfeeding" (Snyder,
Thesis paper) is also another excellent piece to read. Many
illustrations.

In the case of a dyad with breastfeeding -problems-, evaluating the
palate is a tool that is practical and useful. Non reference palate
shapes can impact milk transfer, nipple trauma (etc).

Knowing what constitutes "reference" and what does not, give us clues to
the etiology of the problem.
Understanding how all the pieces -ideally- fit together and what
suggestions are appropriate to improve the "fit" of an individual dyad
are why palatal assessment can be an important tool for the IBCLC.

I feel that to truly comprehend how palate shape "fits" within our
understanding of breastfeeding, and gain the clinical skill, knowledge
and experience required to accurately assess and effectively design a
plan of action requires time and effort.

We all need to keep learning. As Winnie has said many times,
Breastfeeding doesn't change, but our understanding of how it works
does. As we learn more and know how to apply our skills better, we can
better serve mothers babies and our profession.

With kind regards
Aileen Emerling, IBCLC
Tokyo Japan

> Please post experiences and/or protocols for infant palatal
examination,
> manipulation and re-evaluation at and soon after birth.<A
HREF="http://www.lactationinstitute.org/SuckSeminar.htm">

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