A Model of Clinical Intervention in the Maternity Ward: The Breastfeeding and Bonding EMDR Protocol

This article suggests an intervention for breastfeeding difficulties to avoid perinatal crisis: the Breastfeeding and Bonding EMDR Protocol.

Article Abstract

“Breastfeeding is one of the main manifestations of the bond that a mother builds with her newborn baby. Literature on psychological support for mothers in the early stages of breastfeeding is limited and interventions often do not pinpoint the actual roots of the difficulties. Breastfeeding difficulties may cause emotional distress to women and this can impact significantly on bonding and the perinatal period may turn into a state of crisis. Therefore, it is essential for the clinical psychologist to intervene selectively and in a prompt, effective way, especially when working in a maternity ward. This article suggests a model of intervention: the Breastfeeding and Bonding EMDR Protocol. This protocol, created ad hoc for breastfeeding, combines the work with eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) on recent events, the standard protocol and the installation of resources. The hospital case study presented here thoroughly illustrates the various stages of the protocol and the peculiarity and functionality of EMDR regarding breastfeeding and bonding issues in the immediate postpartum period. Prevention is the paramount subject of the model of clinical intervention on breastfeeding hereafter presented.”

—Description from publisher

Article Access

Open Access

Chiorino, V., Roveraro, S., Cattaneo, M. C., Salerno, R., Macchi, E. A., Bertolucci, G. G., Mosca, F., & Fernandez, I. (2016). A Model of Clinical Intervention in the Maternity Ward: The Breastfeeding and Bonding EMDR Protocol. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 10(4), 275–292. https://doi.org/10.1891/1933-3196.10.4.275

About the Journal

The Journal of EMDR Practice and Research is a peer-reviewed publication devoted to integrative, state-of-the-art papers about Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is a broadly conceived interdisciplinary journal that stimulates and communicates research and theory about EMDR, and their application to clinical practice. The Journal of EMDR Practice and Research is the Official Publication of the EMDR International Association.