IBCLC Lactation Solutions NW Portland, Oregon, United States
Abstract: Multi-systemic, poorly understood, under-researched and under-diagnosed, Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD) and the Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes are genetic anomalies that can cause challenges to the breastfeeding relationship both directly, through acute interfering symptoms in the nursing parent or infant, and indirectly through birth trauma and injury. Lactation professionals should understand the basic challenges caused by HSD as well as have strategies to support families with this “rare” disease which may not be very rare at all (Demmler et al 2019). This presentation discusses signs and symptoms of HSD which may affect the breastfeeding relationship and how the lactation consultant may address these challenges on an individual basis. I present two cases in which the nursing parent had Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Type 3; breastfeeding challenges in these cases were similar with excessive infant weight loss in the beginning which was overcome with appropriate supplementation and close follow up. I also discuss how HSD may affect lactation indirectly through increased risk of a difficult birth including malpresentation, injury and prolapse and how to overcome these challenges. Last, I briefly discuss how three conditions which often co-occur with HSD - autonomic dysfunction, mast cell activation disorders, and neurodivergence - can be sensitively addressed within the breastfeeding relationship while meeting the needs of each family.
Publication: Presentation has not been published.
Diversity and Inclusion: Supporting breastfeeding families well involves supporting the best hormonal and neurological states for learning, healing and milk production. The language that we use and stories we tell have a strong impact upon the brains of our clients, for better or for worse. Using language that includes everyone increases our patients’ emotional safety and allows them to work with us effectively. In my presentations, I use gender inclusive language such as modeling pronoun use for the gender spectrum and using gender neutral descriptors such as “the breastfeeding/chestfeeding parent.” I have done a world-wide literature search on my topic since Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders and EDS can affect anyone from any culture or economic background. I also use language which includes the broadest definitions of family and all sexual orientations as these words allow for inclusion and can lower stress hormones.
Disclosures: Presenter(s) indicated no conflicts of interest to disclose.
Learning Objectives:
Identify four major signs and symptoms of Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders and Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes.
Discuss how HSD and EDS can affect the breastfeeding/chestfeeding relationship
Collaborate with HSD and EDS patients to develop an individualized breastfeeding/chestfeeding care plan
Execute referrals to medical and support resources for breastfeeding/chestfeeding HSD and EDS patients and their infants