Presentation Information

Synchrony in Action: Breastfeeding, Co-Regulation & Parent-Infant Attachment

• Speaker: Anna Le Grange , BSc, RN, IBCLC
• Presentation Type:
• Duration: 540 Mins
• Credits:

Abstract:

Breastfeeding functions not only as a mode of infant nutrition but as a critical biopsychosocial process, influencing early relational development. This talk will examine how breastfeeding is linked to co-regulation through multisensory interaction, oxytocin release, and autonomic nervous system synchrony, thereby impacting stress levels and homeostasis in both mother and infant. Evidence from developmental neuroscience and attachment theory suggests that these regulatory processes are central to the formation of secure attachment, enhancing maternal sensitivity and infant socio-emotional development. Anna will address how interruptions to these regulatory dynamics can cause disruptions to breastfeeding as well as influence parental mental health and infant-parent bonding. Integrating perspectives from lactation science, psychology, and sociology, Anna’s session will focus on improving the biopsychosocial regulatory system through co-regulation techniques. Attendees will gain an enriched understanding of the links between attachment, co-regulation and breastfeeding as well as leave with practical skills that they can use with their clients, whatever setting they find themselves working in.