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.
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…
WHEN BREASTFEEDING ISN’T GOING WELL
Breast milk is the optimal nutrition source for babies. We know this. Despite this being the case, breastfeeding can be difficult for a million different reasons, and many struggle with this alone because they don't know where to turn, or they are embarrassed that they are "failing." There is no failure in breastfeeding or motherhood! The postpartum period is exhausting even if breastfeeding is going well. Throw lactation problems into the mix for parents of a newborn baby and you've got a recipe for overwhelming exhaustion and even postpartum mood disorders. Read on to learn what you can do if you find yourself as a new parent struggling with meeting your feeding goals.