Presentation Information

Lina Mazzoni

Breastfeeding as a Prevention Strategy for Speech Language Disorders

  • Speaker: Lina Mazzoni , SLT, B.Sc. & IBCLC
  • Presentation Type:
  • Duration: 60 Mins
  • Credits: 1 CERP, 1 Nursing CEU, 1 CME, 0.1 Midwifery CEU, 1 Dietetic CEU
Abstract:

The prevention and early treatment of diseases is part of a Speech and Language Therapist's working field. The question is, at what point can SL Therapy have a preventative influence, what are the advantages of early consultations and treatments and what significance does a nursing and lactation consultation have in this context. Asha and Fletcher (2005, S.1) called a SL Therapist and a Lactation Consultant a "Baby's feeding dream team", so the combination of these two professions might be a good way to facilitate difficult breastfeeding relationships and reduce SL disorders over the years.

Breastfeeding is the physiological way to feed a baby. It supports the Mother-Child-Bond and sets the foundation for the undisturbed organic, sensorial, motoric, cognitive, oral and social development. If there is a problem with the ingestion of food (oromotor dysfunction or dysphagia), the topic of breastfeeding tends to move to the background. But what if breastfeeding can be used as part of the therapy? Promoting early SLT and by supporting the breastfeeding and preventing the use of artificial teats, which can have a negative influence especially on the oromotor and muscle development, the outcome might improve.