Pam asks: "The question is will the hydrocephalus interfere with the baby
breastfeeding effectively? "

I recently worked with a baby with severe hydrocephalus. To everyone's
surprise she was able to totally breastfeed. Her head was very heavy so mom
positioned her in cradle hold and and leaned over her--kind of an unconventional
latching technique but it worked great.  We provided good support for the mother's
elbow because the head was so heavy.

You will need to assess this baby's breastfeeding effectiveness just like you
would with any other baby. There is no inherent reason baby shouldn't be able
to breastfeed unless she has suffered neurological damage secondary to the
hydrocephalus and suck is affected. Increasing mom's supply will be very
helpful. I would talk to the hosp. LC to get her take on the situation.

Kathy Boggs, RN, IBCLC

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