In evaluating a newborn with feeding difficulties, what intervention may help with ongoing breastfeeding challenges related to latching?

Using a breast pump can be an effective intervention for addressing ongoing breastfeeding challenges related to latching in a newborn. When a baby struggles to latch effectively, pumping breast milk allows the mother to maintain her milk supply, which is essential for continued breastfeeding. It also enables the mother to feed the expressed breast milk to the baby via a bottle or syringe, allowing the newborn to receive the necessary nutrition while still working on the latching issue.

Additionally, breast pumping offers the opportunity for the mother to establish a feeding routine and helps alleviate any discomfort from engorgement or blocked milk ducts. This intervention keeps the breastfeeding bond intact while providing a solution to immediate feeding difficulties.

Other interventions may not directly address the core issue of latching. For instance, offering a pacifier can sometimes confuse the baby further and may not assist in developing proper latch techniques. Introducing formula could potentially reduce the baby's motivation to latch and nurse effectively at the breast. Taking a break from breastfeeding may inadvertently lead to decreased milk production and bonding, making it less conducive to solving latching issues. Therefore, utilizing a breast pump stands out as a strategic approach in this situation.