Question 1

Do you offer support in English?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I do. I offer full guidance and all my services in both Danish and English. With my professional background from working in the USA and Greenland, as well as my international certification as an IBCLC, I am experienced in advising families across different languages and cultures. Whether it concerns breastfeeding or sleep, every consultation is conducted in the language you feel most comfortable with, ensuring the best possible support for your family.

Question 2

Does breastfeeding have to hurt?

Accepted Answer

Breastfeeding should NOT hurt! Pain is often a sign of an incorrect latch or positioning. As an IBCLC, I help you optimize your baby’s latch to prevent sores and pain, ensuring a more peaceful breastfeeding experience for both of you.

Question 3

How do I know if my baby is getting enough milk?

Accepted Answer

Look at your baby’s overall well-being: The number of heavy wet diapers (typically 5-6 per 24 hours after day 5) and your baby’s ability to relax and look satisfied after a meal are the most important indicators. It is perfectly normal for infants to breastfeed between 8-12 times a day, so the frequency of feedings in itself does not indicate a low milk supply. If you are in doubt, a lactation consultation can provide peace of mind and a concrete plan.

Question 4

How can I increase my milk supply quickly?

Accepted Answer

Skin-to-skin contact and frequent breast emptying are the most effective tools. One of my "secret tricks" is using breast compressions during nursing—nature's own version of power pumping. As a nurse and IBCLC, I can guide you through specific techniques like power pumping or customized breastfeeding boost plans. Together, we will find the solution that works best for your family’s needs.

Question 5

What is cluster feeding, and how do I handle it?

Accepted Answer

Cluster feeding (also known as marathon feeding) occurs during periods of rapid development and growth spurts when your baby needs to increase their milk intake. Many mothers find that this often happens in the evenings,with the baby wanting to nurse almost constantly.This is your baby’s natural way of increasing your milk supply. While it is biologically normal, it is undeniably exhausting—remember to have snacks and water ready and show yourself some grace during these periods. Trust the process!

Question 6

How does breastfeeding affect my baby's sleep?

Accepted Answer

Breast milk contains various hormones (including melatonin and cholecystokinin) that actually help your baby fall asleep. There is no evidence that formula leads to better sleep; rather, it is about the baby's satiety and the calmness of their nervous system

Question 7

Can a pacifier affect my breastfeeding and my baby's sleep?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Let's start by seperating the two questions.Breastfeeding:  The pacifier can be an obstacle to breastfeeding if introduced too early or used inappropriately. In the first few weeks, a pacifier can mask your baby's early hunger cues and cause "nipple confusion," which affects the baby's sucking technique. I often recommend waiting 2-4 weeks until breastfeeding is well-established, ensuring the pacifier does not replace the important feeds that build your milk supply.Sleep: Many parents experience "pacifier runs", where they have to help the baby 10-20 times every night. Although it sounds incredible, most children can learn to find and replace their own pacifier as early as 6-8 months of age.At Ammestart, you will learn the concrete techniques and steps to make your child self-sufficient with the pacifier at night, so you can all enjoy more peaceful nights.

Question 8

My baby wakes up very often—is this normal?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it is actually quite normal. Babies have shorter sleep cycles than adults, and frequent wakings can be caused by anything from sleep pressure to hunger or a need for security—BUT it is perfectly ok for you as a family and as parents to work on sleep improvement and want things to be different! Your quality of sleep matters too! As a sleep consultant, I analyze your daily rhythm to create more consolidated and continuous sleep.

Question 9

How can I get my baby to sleep without being rocked or nursed to sleep?

Accepted Answer

It is about a gradual transition to new and secure sleep associations. At Ammestart, we work on regulating your baby’s sleep pressure and finding a method where your baby learns to settle in their own bed without crying—fully supported by your presence and comfort.

Question 10

Is it a sleep regression or just restlessness?

Accepted Answer

Around 4, 8, and 12 months of age, significant neurological leaps occur in a baby's brain, which can significantly impact sleep patterns. During these transitions, it is crucial to maintain consistent routines and adjust daytime naps to prevent overtiredness. At Ammestart, we help you navigate these milestones and find the right balance for your child's sleep.

Question 11

My baby only takes short naps (power-naps) – what can I do?

Accepted Answer

Short naps of 30–45 minutes often occur because the baby struggles to connect sleep cycles. By optimizing wake windows and the sleep environment, we can help your baby transition into deep sleep and work on connecting two sleep cycles for longer, more restorative rest.

Question 12

When will my baby sleep through the night?

Accepted Answer

Medically, "sleeping through the night" is defined as 5-6 hours without a feed. Many babies are physiologically ready for this from around 6-7 months of age.However, it’s important to remember that sleep development isn't linear, and every child is unique. Factors like the baby's neurological maturity and daytime calorie intake all play a role. At Ammestart, we look at your specific situation to set realistic and gentle goals that respect both your baby’s needs and your family’s need for rest.

Question 13

Why is my baby harder to put down when we miss a nap?

Accepted Answer

When a baby misses their "sleep window," the body produces stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. This makes the nervous system hyper-alert, a state we call overtiredness. The best way to help your baby is by creating a calm environment with minimal stimulation and sensory integration, allowing the nervous system to settle so your child can finally drift into sleep.

Question 14

Are there alternatives to the "Cry It Out" method that actually work?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely! At Ammestart, we work with your baby’s biology—not against it. "Cry It Out" doesn’t teach a baby how to sleep; it teaches the baby’s brain that calling for help is futile.What "Cry It Out" actually does: Research shows that a baby’s stress hormone (cortisol) remains peak-level even when the baby is quiet. This state is known as "learned helplessness," not actual rest or calm.The Ammestart Approach: We base our approach on secure attachment, which is built by consistently responding to your baby’s needs. This creates the foundation of security a child needs to feel safe enough to let go and fall asleep.What we do instead: We optimize your baby’s sleep pressure, regulate the circadian rhythm, and develop personalized soothing plans and bedtime rituals. The goal is for your child to learn to sleep through security and your support—never in fear or distress.

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