PTSD RELATED TO BIRTH AND BREASTFEEDING
For a lot of women, having had a tough experience with breastfeeding or birth in the past can create trauma-like feelings when they start thinking about having another baby. It’s not just about remembering something difficult; it can be more complex, like actual PTSD symptoms. This might include flashbacks, anxiety, detachment, or a deep sense of dread about what’s coming next. And if that’s something you’re feeling, you’re definitely not alone.
UNDERSTANDING HOW MUCH BREAST MILK BABIES NEED OVER TIME
Worries about milk supply are common during the postpartum period, especially for new parents trying to anticipate their baby’s changing needs over their first year. A common belief is that as babies grow throughout their first year, they will need more and more milk. This can feel daunting if your feeding goals include exclusively feeding your baby human milk. Thankfully, this is not the reality. Let’s break down how breast milk needs evolve, what you can expect, and how your body is actually designed to adapt to these changes.
BREASTFEEDING HAIKU
A while back, I was inspired to get creative and made a Breastfeeding Haiku series. Today I am sharing some of my poetry with you here.
DO I NEED TO WORRY ABOUT LOW MILK SUPPLY?
Low milk supply is one of the most common concerns I see as a Breastfeeding Medicine physician, pediatrician, and IBCLC in Chicago. Unfortunately, by the time many patients find their way to me, we have already lost precious time in figuring out why the supply is low, and in starting to intervene to maximize production. Being aware of potential risks for low milk supply before giving birth can help you prepare and take steps to maximize your chances of successful breastfeeding once the baby arrives.
THE FOURTH TRIMESTER: PERSONALIZED POSTPARTUM SUPPORT
While pregnant, you are likely used to tons of attention from family, friends, and the medical community. Unfortunately, the way our society is set up, mothers are often left by the wayside after having a baby, while the little one becomes the focus of attention. The postpartum period is a time of major life transitions - becoming a mom, a changing relationship with your partner and other children, a healing body, and huge emotional shifts. Without the proper support, women are at high risk of postpartum mood disorders. In fact, the United States boasts THE HIGHEST maternal mortality rate of any modernized country in the world. This is not a statistic to be proud of. This is glaring data that our system needs to change.
My 4th Trimester Package is my way of battling this statistic.
WHAT FOODS TO AVOID WHILE BREASTFEEDING
In my line of work as a Breastfeeding Medicine and 4th Trimester Specialist in Chicago, I often get asked what herbs or foods can help with lactation. In this article, I focus on what herbs and foods might have a negative effect on your breastfeeding journey.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT BRA AFTER BABY
Everyone loves shopping for baby clothes and adding fun things to their baby shower gift registry, but don't forget to take care of yourself and ensure your own comfort during the postpartum period!
THE BENEFITS OF BREASTFEEDING WHEN YOUR BABY IS SICK
One of the amazing things about breastfeeding is that your body adjusts to meet your baby’s needs. When your baby is sick, your body actually produces more antibodies in your breast milk to help fight off the specific germs they are exposed to. This makes fresh breast milk incredibly beneficial when your baby is ill. The closer to the time of nursing that milk is produced, the more potent these protective properties will be.
FINDING BALANCE IN A BUSY WORLD
Finding balance is about more than just juggling our daily tasks; it’s about making intentional choices to create meaningful moments with the people we care about most. Balance means having time for your family, yourself, your interests, and your work. It involves carving out space to connect deeply with each of your children (and your spouse!). This isn't easy, and it certainly isn’t something I claim to have perfected. However, I’ve learned that it’s incredibly important to strive for.
GRATITUDE DURING NATIONAL BREASTFEEDING MONTH
The month of August is National Breastfeeding Month, and we just finished a whirlwind World Breastfeeding Week during the first week of the month. In honor and celebration of this month of recognition, I’d like to take a moment to tell you what, as a Breastfeeding Medicine Physician, I am grateful for. 1. FINDING MY NICHE: Though breastfeeding was hard for me, I am thankful that it led me to such a fulfilling specialization that allows me to help others navigate their breastfeeding journeys with strength, knowledge, support, and confidence…