About Geraldine Miskin
Geraldine is an independent breastfeeding specialist/consultant who does in home consultations for moms experiencing problems with breastfeeding or other new born challenges. As a former maternity nurse with 13 years experience, working with families and newborns. Geraldine has completed the Australasian Lactation Course, Unicef Baby Friendly course as well as several other courses in the UK.
Geraldine was chosen to undertake an 18 month internship under the guidance of an International Lactation Consultant and continues to use her skills and experience to assist, educate and provide parents with emotional support and practical solutions.
She currently runs a private practice in London doing in home consultations for all breastfeeding and baby related problems, as well as breastfeeding and baby care lessons ante-natally. Her philosophy is to promote and encourage breastfeeding and to support all parents regardless of the infant feeding choice.
A few words from Geraldine herself:
My Approach and Philosophy
I believe that every mother will want to do what is best for her baby and family, so there is no need for pressure tactics or guilt tripping to encourage mothers to breastfeed. Years of experience has taught me, that no two mothers or babies are the same and should be treated as individuals. Whilst I strive to promote and protect breastfeeding, I do acknowledge that breastfeeding for some is painful and complicated, which may lead to the early introduction of bottles or formula. Parents should be offered unbiased and up to date information to enable them to make an informed choice regarding their infants care and feeding strategies, with support and encouragement in a non judgemental approach.
How Are My Services Different To Others?
Experience has reiterated the fact that health professional's inability to tailor support or action plans to meet an individual's needs, leads to a lot of frustration, conflicting advice and ultimately the downfall in a breastfeeding mothers support. I always tell moms to only turn to one person for help at a time, be that your mom or sister or somebody like myself. Below are a few questions I am frequently asked. Please do touch base with me if your questions have not been answered via email.
If breastfeeding is such a natural process, why would you need to know about my services?
The first step to a successful breastfeeding relationship, is finding a position and attachment technique that is suitable to you and your baby. I believe that every mom and baby should be treated as an individual dyad. Whilst breastfeeding may look like a simple clip onto the breast, some moms need a little more support in the early days when learning the art of breastfeeding. Knowing where to turn to for help can often be a lot harder than we assume, which is why I have created the Let's Breastfeed Program.
Would you support me in combination feeding?
Absolutely! I do understand that the world we live in doesn't always cater for long lazy days of uninterrupted bonding and baby care practice. Many of my clients have other children who still need their mom regardless of the latest arrival, or have difficulties feeding and feel the only way to prolong their breastfeeding period is to substitute a feed with a bottle. Whilst combination feeding is manageable, it is trickier than exclusive breastfeeding or formula feeding, but I do feel that it has its benefits.
How will you be able to help me more than other professionals?
Being an independent breastfeeding specialist enables me to look at your lifestyle, your needs and concerns without being restricted by how I can advise you. Naturally I want what is best for you and your little one, but I am not arrogant enough to tell you what is best for you. I listen to what you need help with, talk through all the options open to you, and then support you in your decision. Ultimately, as a mother, I feel that you know what is best for your baby. However, if I felt that your decision could be harmful, I would inform you.