In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I explore the complexities of breastfeeding, emphasizing that it can be a challenging experience for many due to a lack of exposure and knowledge. I compare the learning process to an alien trying to drive a car, highlighting the importance of understanding human lactation beyond just nutrition. I also provide really practical advice on seeking support, such as consulting lactation consultants and utilizing resources like La Leche League. I address the impact of birth experiences on feeding and stress the importance of early support to prevent issues like nipple damage and low milk supply. The episode encourages you to prepare for your feeding journey by gathering resources and support networks in advance.
In this episode of the podcast I talk about:
- Why breastfeeding can be difficult, likening the learning process to an alien learning to drive, due to a lack of exposure and experience.
- Lactation is more than nutrition, involving communication, bonding, and natural pain relief for infants.
- Resources such as La Leche League and lactation consultants, and suggests preparing a list of local support networks and specialists.
- How birth experiences, including interventions, can affect a baby’s ability to feed, and the importance of a hands-off birth approach.
- The necessity of seeking early support to prevent issues like low milk supply and nipple damage, and encourages finding a supportive community.
Sound bites from this episode:
“Feeding your little one is communication, it’s bonding, it’s natural pain relief.”
“For us, lactation, nursing a baby is like being an alien. We don’t see it done all the time… You don’t frequently, over and over again, every week, day in, day out, see babies feeding.”
“There isn’t enough lactation support out there. We need to actively seek it out as well as spending time in pregnancy learning about breastfeeding. Also find out where you can get support, find out which charities there are.”
“Every baby’s different. Every feeding journey is different. I have three children and had different challenges with all three of them. So it doesn’t matter really how many times you do it, there is still stuff to learn along the way.”
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