BREASTFEEDING WITH CONFIDENCE | Pregnancy Tips, Postpartum Wellness, Milk Supply, Tongue Tie, Latch Pain

Breast engorgement* during the first week of breastfeeding is incredibly common — and incredibly misunderstood. In this episode of the Breastfeeding With Confidence, IBCLC Jaimie Zaki breaks down exactly what breast engorgement is, why it happens, and how to relieve engorgement safely without damaging your milk supply or latch. If your breasts feel hard, hot, swollen, painfully full, or difficult for your baby to latch onto, this episode is for you. Engorgement is not a sign that breastfeeding is failing, and it does not automatically mean you have too much milk. In fact, engorgement is usually caused by inflammation, increased blood flow, lymphatic fluid, and IV fluids from labor — not just milk volume. You’ll learn: What breast engorgement actually is (and what it’s not) Why engorgement can happen even with low milk supply How engorgement affects latch, milk transfer, and nipple pain Why aggressive pumping can make engorgement worse How to use feeding techniques, cold therapy, gentle massage, and hand expression effectively Jaimie also explains why early engorgement can trigger a cascade of problems — from poor latch to clogged ducts, mastitis, and unnecessary formula supplementation — and how addressing engorgement correctly can prevent those outcomes. Whether you’re pregnant and preparing for breastfeeding or navigating the first days postpartum, this episode will help you feel calmer, more informed, and more confident in your body. 🎧 Listen now and learn how to move milk, protect your breast tissue, and support your baby — without panic or misinformation.   RESOURCES:    Get the FREE 5 Mistakes that Sabotage Breastfeeding Guide    Breastfeeding Solutions: Breastfeeding Success Guide Bundle     NEEDED. Nutritional Support (Bioavailable Supplements, Hydration & More)** Motherlove Herbals (Save 15%!)**   * Topics Covered: Breast Engorgement, How to reduce engorgement breastfeeding, breastmilk coming in, breasts hurt first week postpartum, first week of breastfeeding tips, reverse pressure softening    **If you purchase from links above, Little Bear Lactation may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. These proceeds help keep the Breastfeeding with Confidence Podcast in production, providing free education and support for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers.

Can you breastfeed after breast cancer—even after a double mastectomy? In this powerful and deeply personal episode of the Breastfeeding With Confidence Podcast, I’m joined by my friend Emily, a birth worker and breast cancer survivor, to talk honestly about what breastfeeding can look like after cancer—and how a Supplemental Nursing System (SNS) made it possible for her to nurse her babies at the breast. This conversation challenges the idea that breastfeeding is only about milk production. We talk about bonding, healing, hormones, and why breastfeeding still counts even when it doesn’t look the way you expected. If you’re a breast cancer survivor, supporting one, or working with mothers navigating complex breastfeeding situations, this episode is for you. And if you don't have breast cancer? This episode is still helpful for moms supplementing for low milk supply!  In This Episode, We Cover: Can you breastfeed after breast cancer or a double mastectomy? What a Supplemental Nursing System (SNS) is and how it works Using an SNS with low or no milk supply Why breastfeeding is about more than milk Emotional healing and closure after cancer through nursing How long an SNS can be used  Practical tips for using a Supplemental Nursing System successfully Why breastfeeding after cancer still “counts” RESOURCES & PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS FREE 5 Breastfeeding Mistakes to Avoid  Confident Mama Breastfeeding Academy  Supplementing for Breastfeeding Moms Mini Course  Book a Virtual Lactation Consultant  NEEDED. Nutritional Support (Bioavailable Supplements, Hydration & More) SAVE 20% ON YOUR FIRST ORDER!!!! Thank you to RESTORATIVE ROOTS for sponsoring this episode of the Breastfeeding with Confidence Podcast. Learn more about how RESTORATIVE ROOTS can help you thrive now: restorativeroots.com  

Were you told in the hospital that your breastfed baby lost “too much” weight and now you’re questioning everything?Newborn weight loss is one of the most misunderstood and fear-based decision points in early breastfeeding, and it’s where so many breastfeeding journeys are unintentionally derailed In this episode, IBCLC and mom of five Jaimie Zaki breaks down what newborn weight loss actually means, why hospitals often push formula so quickly, and how to make confident, informed decisions that protect both your baby and your breastfeeding goals so you can avoid unnecessary formula.  What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why newborn weight loss is biologically normal and expected How IV fluids during labor can artificially inflate birth weight Why the “10% weight loss rule” is often misunderstood and misused Why weight loss alone does not tell us if breastfeeding is working What should be assessed before recommending formula When supplementation may be helpful — and when it’s unnecessary How to supplement without sabotaging milk supply or breastfeeding confidence Why fear-based feeding decisions often create the very problems they claim to prevent RESOURCES & PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS FREE 5 Breastfeeding Mistakes to Avoid  Confident Mama Breastfeeding Academy  Supplementing for Breastfeeding Moms Mini Course  Book a Virtual Lactation Consultant  NEEDED. Nutritional Support (Bioavailable Supplements, Hydration & More) SAVE 20% ON YOUR FIRST ORDER!!!! Thank you to RESTORATIVE ROOTS for sponsoring this episode of the Breastfeeding with Confidence Podcast. Learn more about how RESTORATIVE ROOTS can help you thrive now: restorativeroots.com

Did your lactation consultant, postpartum nurse, midwife, or pediatrician tell you your baby has a "good latch" so the breastfeeding pain you're experiencing is probably "normal" and you'll just have to wait for it to disappear?  What if I told you it doesn't matter what your baby's latch LOOKS like, if you're in pain?  In this episode of the Breastfeeding With Confidence Podcast, Jaimie Zaki, IBCLC (Lactation Consultant) and mom of 5, discusses what a good latch looks like, what a good latch FEELS like, and how to determine the root cause of painful breastfeeding.  Jaimie discusses oral function examinations, solutions for managing breastfeeding pain, and shares on-demand breastfeeding resources so you can transform your story today.  If you're ready to get answers and implement real solutions for breastfeeding pain, you're in the right place.  RESOURCES & PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS FREE 5 Breastfeeding Mistakes to Avoid  Confident Mama Breastfeeding Academy  Supplementing for Breastfeeding Moms Mini Course  Book a Virtual Lactation Consultant  NEEDED. Nutritional Support (Bioavailable Supplements, Hydration & More) SAVE 20% ON YOUR FIRST ORDER!!!! Thank you to RESTORATIVE ROOTS for sponsoring this episode of the Breastfeeding with Confidence Podcast. Learn more about how RESTORATIVE ROOTS can help you thrive now: restorativeroots.com  

Christmas week can feel magical… and also incredibly overwhelming when you’re pregnant, newly postpartum, or navigating breastfeeding challenges. In this short and gentle check-in episode, Jaimie shares encouragement, emotional support, and simple ways to get the breastfeeding help you need without leaving home during the busy holiday season. Whether you’re anxiously waiting for your baby’s arrival or deep in the newborn trenches, this episode reminds you that you’re not alone — and you don’t have to “feel merry and bright” to be a good mom. Resources Mentioned  Free Guide: 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Breastfeeding 👉 littlebearlactation.com/mistakes Need Breastfeeding Help? Book a Q&A session or lactation support call 👉 littlebearlactation.com/support  Pregnant? Download the guide, click “pregnant,” and unlock a free workshop + special offer for The Breastfeeding Academy

You’re Not Broken, You’re Postpartum: Redefining “Normal” in Early Motherhood What if the problem isn’t you… it’s the expectations you were handed about postpartum? In this powerful episode of the Breastfeeding With Confidence Podcast, Jaimie sits down with mom of six, birth worker, podcaster, and author Katherine Stephens to talk about her new book: You Are Not Broken, You Are Postpartum. If you’ve ever thought, “Why am I not handling this better?” or “Everyone else seems to be coping… what’s wrong with me?” — this conversation is for you. Katherine pulls back the curtain on what postpartum really feels like, from identity shifts to postpartum depression, from feeling isolated to realizing you were never meant to do this without a village. In this episode, we talk about: Why you feel “broken” postpartum (and why you’re not) How hormonal changes, birth trauma, lack of support, and sleep deprivation all collide and make you think you’re failing. The identity crisis of new motherhood Why you don’t “bounce back” to your old self — and how to start embracing the woman you’re becoming. The myth and reality of “it takes a village” What a true village used to look like, why so many moms don’t have one now, and practical ways to build support even if your family is far away. Asking for help without feeling like a failure Simple, practical ideas (like Catherine’s “power-up” exercise with your partner) to share the mental and physical load in postpartum. Postpartum depression vs. normal postpartum struggles Why feeling emotional does not automatically mean you’re broken — and when to seek extra support. RESOURCES FREE GUIDE: 5 Breastfeeding Mistakes to Avoid  Made for Birth Podcast with Katherine  Get your copy of "You're not broken, You're Postpartum" 

So many pregnant moms head into breastfeeding worried about low supply — especially when they hear “your baby is nursing constantly” or “you don’t have much colostrum.” But here’s the truth (and what most moms are never told): Frequent nursing + tiny amounts of colostrum = NORMAL. Your baby is doing exactly what tells your body to make more milk. In today’s episode of the Breastfeeding With Confidence Podcast, we’re breaking down the real science behind milk supply in the first week — so you can walk into breastfeeding feeling calm, confident, and prepared. What You’ll Learn ✨ 1. When milk supply actually begins Lactogenesis II (your true milk “coming in”) only starts after the placenta separates. What you leak — or don’t leak — during pregnancy has nothing to do with how much milk you’ll make. ✨ 2. Colostrum is produced in tiny amounts Colostrum is thick, sticky, and intentionally low-volume. Your baby doesn’t need ounces — they need frequent nursing. And no, pumping “nothing” isn’t a sign of low supply. ✨ 3. Why frequent nursing is NORMAL, not a red flag Cluster feeding = your baby stimulating your supply exactly the way nature designed. Supplementing too early can disrupt the supply-and-demand cycle you’re trying to build. We also touch on delayed milk coming in, retained placenta, postpartum hemorrhage, and how to protect your supply if birth complications arise. RESOURCES  RESOURCES & PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS FREE 5 Breastfeeding Mistakes to Avoid  Confident Mama Breastfeeding Academy  Supplementing for Breastfeeding Moms Mini Course  Book a Virtual Lactation Consultant  NEEDED. Nutritional Support (Bioavailable Supplements, Hydration & More) SAVE 20% ON YOUR FIRST ORDER!!!! Motherlove Herbals (Save 15%!) 

Have you ever wondered about the benefits of breastfeeding beyond nutrition and immune health? We often talk about connection with breastfeeding, but here's what we don't talk about: The physical and developmental benefits of breastfeeding.   The truth is breastfeeding is so much more than “no pain and good weight gain.” In this episode of The Breastfeeding With Confidence Podcast, we dive into the mechanical and developmental benefits of breastfeeding — the things that go far beyond the nutrition in your milk. Joining me today is Dr. Shereen Lim, an airway-focused dentist and author of Breathe, Sleep, Thrive. She breaks down how breastfeeding impacts your baby’s oral muscle development, jaw formation, airway growth, and even their long-term risk of sleep-disordered breathing. If you’ve ever wondered why breastfeeding matters for more than just feeding — this episode will blow your mind (in the best way). What We Cover in This Episode  Why Breastfeeding Is a Foundational Piece of Oral Development Dr. Lim explains how breastfeeding creates the ideal conditions for strengthening your baby’s tongue, expanding the palate, shaping the jaws, and supporting proper airway growth — things bottles simply cannot mimic. Tongue Function, Tongue Ties, and Oral Dysfunction We discuss: Why tongue ties are more than “just a latch issue” How poor oral mechanics can still exist even when baby is gaining weight Early red flags like aerophagia (air intake), reflux-like symptoms, and compensatory swallowing Why early oral dysfunction is often the first sign of airway issues later  How Oral Development Impacts Sleep and Airway Health Your baby’s ability to breathe well at night is directly connected to: Jaw growth Palate width Tongue tone and posture Nasal vs. mouth breathing habits Dr. Lim explains how early feeding mechanics shape the airway and why addressing issues early can prevent years of sleep and behavioral struggles.  The Difference Between Breastfeeding and Bottle Feeding (Mechanically) We unpack how: The breast requires suction, jaw movement, tongue elevation, and coordinated suck-swallow-breathe Bottles rely on totally different muscles and can contribute to low tongue posture and mouth breathing You can optimize bottle-feeding when breastfeeding isn’t fully possible This is not about guilt — it’s about helping moms make informed, confident decisions. How Feeding Issues Show Up When Baby Starts Solids Many babies who struggle at the breast eventually show: Gagging Pocketing food Swallowing chunks whole Refusing solids Difficulty chewing Dr. Lim explains why these signs often trace back to early oral dysfunction. Why Breastfeeding Is a Vital Sign Breastfeeding trouble is often the earliest indicator of: Oral dysfunction Airway restriction Poor tongue posture Later sleep-disordered breathing Challenges with speech, chewing, and facial development   RESOURCES:  Get the FREE 5 Mistakes that Sabotage Breastfeeding Guide  Connect with Dr. Shereen Lim Here  RESOURCES & PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS FREE 5 Breastfeeding Mistakes to Avoid  Confident Mama Breastfeeding Academy  Supplementing for Breastfeeding Moms Mini Course  Book a Virtual Lactation Consultant  NEEDED. Nutritional Support (Bioavailable Supplements, Hydration & More) SAVE 20% ON YOUR FIRST ORDER!!!! Motherlove Herbals (Save 15%!)  Topics Covered: breastfeeding oral development, airway focused dentist, tongue tie breastfeeding, infant oral dysfunction, jaw development breastfeeding, palate development breastfeeding, nasal breathing baby, sleep disordered breathing infant, bottle feeding vs breastfeeding mechanics, breastfeeding latch problems, breastfeeding and airway health, early tongue tie signs, breastfeeding reflux symptoms, infant airway development, breastfeeding jaw growth, lactation consultant airway, mechanical benefits of breastfeeding

If you care about autonomy, informed consent, and saying no to pressure in pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding, this episode is for you. In today’s conversation, I’m joined by doula and Holistic Pregnancy Podcast host, Taylor Shaffer, to unpack what real informed consent actually looks like (and why those hospital “consent forms” usually aren’t it). We walk through the BRAIN method—Benefits, Risks, Alternatives, Intuition, and doing Nothing—so you can use it to make confident decisions about: Prenatal tests Inductions (especially in the busy holiday season) Epidurals and birth interventions Newborn procedures Tongue tie releases Formula “top offs” and early breastfeeding decisions Whether you’re still pregnant or already holding your baby, this episode will help you recognize coercive language, spot red flags, and stand firm in your right to say no—in the hospital, at home, and in the postpartum/breastfeeding trenches. You are not a “difficult patient.” You are a mother making informed, intentional choices for your body and your baby. In This Episode, We Talk About: What informed consent really means (and why signing a hospital form is not the same thing) The difference between liability-focused consent forms and true autonomy-centered informed consent How to use the BRAIN method in real conversations with providers: Benefits Risks Alternatives Intuition doing Nothing / waiting Red flags that your provider is not giving you full informed consent: How to tell the difference between a real emergency and “manufactured urgency” Why it is never too late to switch providers—even late in pregnancy How informed consent continues into postpartum and breastfeeding, not just birth What informed consent looks like when: Nurses are “helping” with latch in the hospital You’re being pressured to supplement with formula Someone says your baby is tongue tied and you “need a release” Why you need a breastfeeding plan (not just a birth plan) The role of doulas, IBCLCs, and holistic practitioners in supporting autonomy-centered care Resources Mentioned FREE Breastfeeding Mistakes Guide - DOWNLOAD NOW Access the Confident Mama Breastfeeding Academy for step-by-step guidance on protecting your milk supply, managing common breastfeeding struggles, and getting a pain-free latch: Nested and Nourished     Topics Covered in this episode: informed consent pregnancy, informed consent birth, informed consent breastfeeding, BRAIN method birth, birth autonomy, pregnancy autonomy, natural birth informed consent, physiologic birth support, how to say no to interventions in labor, induction pressure holidays, informed consent tongue tie, tongue tie release informed consent, breastfeeding informed consent hospital, breastfeeding plan vs birth plan, advocacy in pregnancy and birth, holistic pregnancy podcast    

Protecting Your Milk Supply During the Holidays: Breastfeeding Tips for Thanksgiving In this episode of the Breastfeeding With Confidence Podcast, Jaimie Zaki, IBCLC and mom of five, shares essential tips for maintaining milk supply and avoiding common breastfeeding challenges during the holidays. Thanksgiving and other holiday gatherings can be joyful but overwhelming, and it’s common for breastfeeding moms to experience clogged ducts, mastitis, or temporary dips in milk supply due to skipped feeds or stress. Jaimie busts popular myths, including concerns that herbs in holiday meals or moderate alcohol consumption can tank your milk supply, and offers practical strategies to keep both you and your baby comfortable and fed. She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, prioritizing feeds, resting, babywearing, and setting boundaries to protect your milk supply and enjoy your holiday safely. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Common holiday myths about breastfeeding and milk supply How to prevent clogged ducts and mastitis during busy family gatherings Tips for feeding your baby while staying part of holiday festivities Using babywearing to keep your baby close and avoid missed feeds Strategies for prioritizing rest and self-care while postpartum How to navigate family dynamics and accept help without guilt Practical reminders for maintaining milk supply, even with a hectic holiday schedule Resources & Links: Episode on Breastfeeding & Alcohol LISTEN HERE  FREE Breastfeeding Mistakes Guide - DOWNLOAD NOW Access the Confident Mama Breastfeeding Academy for step-by-step guidance on protecting your milk supply, managing common breastfeeding struggles, and getting a pain-free latch: littlebearlactation.com/library (use code PODCAST50for a discount)

Colic Isn’t “A Thing”: Understanding Why Your Baby Cries and What You Can Do In this episode of the Breastfeeding With Confidence Podcast, host Jaimie Zaki, IBCLC and mom of five, tackles a common myth: colic isn’t just a thing. Many parents hear that their baby has colic and feel helpless, but crying is always communication — not a diagnosis. Jaimie explains why labeling a baby as “colicky” can be misleading, and why persistent crying often signals underlying issues like sensory overload, sleep challenges, reflux, digestive discomfort, tongue tie, oral dysfunction, or inefficient milk transfer. She emphasizes that colic is rarely the problem itself — it’s a sign that something needs to be addressed. This episode provides practical guidance for decoding your baby’s cries, optimizing feeding efficiency, and using nervous system regulation techniques like skin-to-skin, gentle rocking, and bodywork. Jaimie also shares insights on avoiding ineffective remedies and focusing on root causes, empowering parents to respond confidently and effectively. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why colic isn’t a real diagnosis and what it really means Common underlying causes of persistent crying in babies How inefficient milk transfer or oral dysfunction can lead to fussiness Practical strategies to soothe and support your baby Tools for nervous system regulation: skin-to-skin, gentle rocking, and more How to track patterns to identify underlying issues When to seek professional support to address persistent feeding or crying challenges Resources & Links: 👉FREE Breastfeeding Mistakes Guide - DOWNLOAD NOW 👉Access the Confident Mama Breastfeeding Academy for step-by-step guidance on protecting your milk supply, managing common breastfeeding struggles, and getting a pain-free latch: Book a 20-minute Q&A session with Jaimie for personalized support  

Can breastfeeding truly support your mental health—or does it sometimes make postpartum depression worse? In this heartfelt episode of the Breastfeeding with Confidence Podcast, host Jamie Zaki, IBCLC and mom of five, sits down with Vanessa, a Licensed Professional Counseling Student and Lactation Counselor, to talk about the emotional side of breastfeeding that so many mothers struggle with but few actually discuss out loud. Together, they dive deep into postpartum depression, unresolved mother wounds, and the grief that can come when breastfeeding doesn’t go as planned. Vanessa shares her own journey through the intersection of motherhood and mental health, reminding moms that breastfeeding doesn’t have to be bad for your mental health—but the key is education, support, and self-compassion. In This Episode, You’ll Hear About: How birth interventions and early postpartum experiences shape both breastfeeding success and mental wellbeing The emotional layers of breastfeeding grief and how to process them How social media and cultural expectations add pressure to new moms The connection between unhealed mother wounds and the way we show up as mothers Practical ways to protect your mental health while breastfeeding Why being “birth to breastfeeding educated” before birth can transform your experience  Meet Our Guest: Vanessa — @MilkandMentalHealth Vanessa is a Licensed Professional Counseling Student and Lactation Counseling student passionate about helping mothers navigate the complex intersection of mental health and breastfeeding. Through her online platform @MilkandMentalHealth, she shares education, emotional support, and compassionate truth-telling to empower moms to nurture both their babies and themselves. 🔗 Connect & Resources  Learn more or join Vanessa’s Birth to Boob community: https://birthtoboob.my.canva.site/joinbtb  Follow Vanessa on Instagram: @milkandmentalhealth | @birthtoboob Get the FREE 5 Mistakes that Sabotage Breastfeeding Guide  rate, review, and share this episode with a mama who needs to hear that she’s not alone—and that it’s possible to breastfeed and protect your mental health. 00:00 Introduction to Breastfeeding and Mental Health 00:24 Meet Your Host: Jaimie Zaki 00:46  Postpartum Mental Health 04:13 Cultural and Psychological Challenges for Postpartum Mothers 06:18 Therapy and Support Systems 13:41 Personal Experiences and Stories 20:05 Final Thoughts and Encouragement 24:31 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

Oversupply in Breastfeeding: Signs, Causes, and Solutions In this episode of the Breastfeeding With Confidence Podcast, host Jaimie Zaki, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and mom of five, addresses a common but often overlooked breastfeeding concern: oversupply of breast milk. Many moms worry about low supply, but producing too much milk comes with its own challenges — and it’s usually a sign of an underlying issue. Jaimie explains the difference between healthy supply and oversupply, common symptoms to watch for (forceful letdown, frothy stools, frequent gagging or coughing, engorgement, plugged ducts, and mastitis), and why oversupply is often related to inflammation or oral dysfunction. She also provides practical strategies for managing oversupply, including block feeding, strategic expression, and addressing root causes like inefficient milk removal or inflammation. This episode is full of actionable tips, mindset shifts, and encouragement to help moms navigate oversupply without feeling guilty, anxious, or overwhelmed. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Signs of oversupply and how it differs from a healthy milk supply Why oversupply is usually a symptom, not the problem itself How oral dysfunction and inefficient milk removal can overstimulate milk production The role of inflammation in hyperlactation Practical strategies: block feeding, flow management, and strategic milk expression When to seek further evaluation from a healthcare provider How to prevent oversupply from leading to clogged ducts, mastitis, or eventual undersupply Resources & Links: 👉FREE Breastfeeding Mistakes Guide - DOWNLOAD NOW 👉Access the Confident Mama Breastfeeding Academy for step-by-step guidance on protecting your milk supply, managing common breastfeeding struggles, and getting a pain-free latch: Book a 20-minute Q&A session with Jaimie for personalized support

Breastfeeding Challenges: Comfort Nursing and Persistent Thrush In this episode of the Breastfeeding With Confidence podcast, host Jaimie Zaki, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and mom of five, answers two common community questions: “What should I do if my baby uses me as a pacifier?” and “My baby has white patches on her tongue, the doctor says it’s thrush, but it won’t go away — what now?” Jaimie breaks down the difference between nutritive and non-nutritive sucking, when and how pacifiers can be helpful, and how to know when “comfort nursing” is actually a red flag for oral dysfunction. She also clears up confusion between “milk tongue” and true thrush, shares what persistent thrush really means, and explores the role of gut health in recovery. With practical tips, mindset shifts, and encouragement, this episode helps you feel less alone while navigating frustrating breastfeeding struggles.   BREASTFEEDING RESOURCES  👉FREE Breastfeeding Mistakes Guide - DOWNLOAD NOW 👉Access the Confident Mama Breastfeeding Academy for step-by-step guidance on protecting your milk supply, managing common breastfeeding struggles, and getting a pain-free latch: Book a 20-minute Q&A session with Jaimie for personalized support     Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction & Podcast Welcome 01:06 November Updates & Breastfeeding Community 01:50 Comfort Nursing vs. Pacifier Use 06:09 Baby Thrush Concerns Explained 06:37 Breastfeeding Resource Library 07:18 Thrush vs. Milk Tongue: Getting a Proper Diagnosis 11:20 Final Thoughts & Support Options 12:06 Conclusion & Call to Action

Do you think postpartum is just one year of hell you have to push through? Think again! Dr. Jenna, a naturopath who specializes in women's health, discusses how our postpartum healing experience can impact our entire life, including menopause.  Want to make sure you're caring for your body well during postpartum?  Let's chat with Dr. Jenna & learn how you can thrive during the fourth trimester & beyond!    RESOURCES:  Learn with Dr. Jenna's blog CLICK HERE FREE Breastfeeding Mistakes Guide - DOWNLOAD NOW Book a Consult - CLICK HERE      

Caffeine and Breastfeeding: Can You Still Enjoy Your Coffee? In this episode of The Breastfeeding With Confidence Podcast, host Jamie Doula, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and mom of five, answers one of the most common questions new moms have: “Can I drink coffee while breastfeeding?” Jamie explains how caffeine passes into breast milk, how much is considered safe, and signs that your baby might be sensitive. You’ll also learn practical tips like timing your coffee after a feeding and watching out for hidden caffeine sources in sodas, teas, chocolate, energy drinks, and even medications. If you’ve been stressing over whether that morning coffee is off limits, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence you need. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How much caffeine is safe while breastfeeding Why some babies may be more sensitive to caffeine Practical strategies for timing your coffee Surprising hidden sources of caffeine beyond coffee and tea The reassuring truth about enjoying coffee as a breastfeeding mom BREASTFEEDING RESOURCES  👉FREE Breastfeeding Mistakes Guide - DOWNLOAD NOW 👉Access the Confident Mama Breastfeeding Academy for step-by-step guidance on protecting your milk supply, managing common breastfeeding struggles, and getting a pain-free latch: Book a 20-minute Q&A session with Jaimie for personalized support   0R4s6myh30iWgFjBphBG

Is My Breast Milk Fatty Enough for My Baby? Busting a Common Breastfeeding Myth In this episode of Breastfeeding With Confidence, Jaimie Zaki, IBCLC and mom of five, tackles one of the most frustrating myths new mothers hear: that their breast milk “isn’t fatty enough” or “needs time to mature” before it can help their baby gain weight. Here’s the truth—your milk is already perfectly designed for your baby from the very beginning. If your little one isn’t gaining weight, the issue isn’t milk quality—it’s usually about milk volume or transfer. And in rare cases, consistent weight gain struggles despite adequate intake can point to deeper medical issues that need attention. Jaimie shares: Why breast milk is always nutrient-rich and fatty enough The real reasons babies may not gain weight Why supplementing with formula isn’t always the answer How to advocate for yourself when doctors give misleading advice If you’ve ever worried your milk “isn’t good enough,” this episode will give you clarity, confidence, and the tools to protect your breastfeeding journey.   BREASTFEEDING RESOURCES  👉FREE Breastfeeding Mistakes Guide - DOWNLOAD NOW 👉Access the Confident Mama Breastfeeding Academy for step-by-step guidance on protecting your milk supply, managing common breastfeeding struggles, and getting a pain-free latch: Book a 20-minute Q&A session with Jaimie for personalized support   0R4s6myh30iWgFjBphBG

Are you struggling to sleep because your newborn only wants to sleep on your chest? Do you keep finding yourself falling asleep with your baby, feeling guilty and frustrated?   In this episode, we’re breaking the taboo around co-sleeping, bed-sharing, and safe infant sleep—without the guilt, shame, or fear that mainstream advice so often stirs up. Join Jaimie Zaki, IBCLC and mom of five, and her guest Taylor McKay, a holistic sleep coach based in Canada, as they unpack what real-life sleep looks like for new mothers—and how to make it safe, biologically normal, and confidence-building. You’ll learn how to protect your peace, your milk supply, and your baby’s safety—without resorting to sleep-training or fighting your natural instincts. 🔎 In this episode, we cover: Safe co-sleeping and bed-sharing practices backed by evidence and maternal intuition How to create a safe sleep space for your newborn—whether you use a crib, bassinet, or share your bed What to do when exhaustion hits hard postpartum and “just don’t sleep with your baby” stops being realistic Common myths about co-sleeping safety that every mom deserves to hear the truth about Reducing risk of SIDS and infant suffocation deaths  Practical tips for safely bed-sharing while breastfeeding so everyone actually gets rest Why listening to your intuition matters more than rigid sleep rules Balancing family dynamics when your partner or relatives don’t understand co-sleeping How confident, informed mothers sleep better—and so do their babies   RESOURCES:   Need sleep support? Visit Taylor McKay on Instagram @Cozylittlesleepers 👉FREE Breastfeeding Mistakes Guide - DOWNLOAD NOW 👉Access the Confident Mama Breastfeeding Academy for step-by-step guidance on protecting your milk supply, managing common breastfeeding struggles, and getting a pain-free latch: Book a 20-minute Q&A session with Jaimie for personalized support  Episode timestamps: 00:00 — Welcome to Breastfeeding with Confidence 00:43 — Meet Taylor + why “safe co-sleeping” matters 01:46 — The reality of postpartum sleep and survival 05:12 — What safe bed-sharing actually looks like 08:12 — Debunking myths and navigating fear-based advice 13:52 — Real-life mom experiences and intuition-led sleep 34:10 — Final thoughts + your next step toward peaceful rest

Should I Nurse on Both Sides Every Feed? In this episode of the Breastfeeding With Confidence Podcast, host Jaimie Zaki, IBCLC and mom of five, dives into one of the most common breastfeeding questions: Do I need to nurse on both sides every time my baby feeds? Many new moms worry about whether their baby is getting enough milk, how long to nurse on each side, and if skipping a breast could affect milk supply. Jaimie explains how breast milk works, what foremilk and hindmilk really mean, and why there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. You’ll learn: ✅ The difference between feeding from one side vs. both sides ✅ How to recognize when your baby is satisfied after one breast ✅ When offering both sides is helpful for milk supply and baby’s intake ✅ What “block feeding” means and when it’s used ✅ Red flags to watch for if your baby always prefers just one breast Breastfeeding is about finding the rhythm that works for you and your baby, not following strict rules. By understanding how milk production works, you can confidently decide what’s best for each feed. If you’ve ever asked yourself “Should I nurse on both sides every feed?”—this episode gives you the clear, evidence-based answers you need.   BREASTFEEDING RESOURCES  👉FREE Breastfeeding Mistakes Guide - DOWNLOAD NOW 👉Access the Confident Mama Breastfeeding Academy for step-by-step guidance on protecting your milk supply, managing common breastfeeding struggles, and getting a pain-free latch: Book a 20-minute Q&A session with Jaimie for personalized support  

In this  sp0ecial episode of the Breastfeeding With Confidence podcast, Jaimie Zaki, IBCLC and mom of five, shares a real postpartum story about a new mom who struggled with her first latch, pain, and anxiety in the early days. Learn how pregnant moms can prevent these common breastfeeding challenges before they happen. Jaimie invites expecting mothers to join the Breastfeeding Prep Masterclass on Monday, October 13th—a free, live workshop designed to help you feel confident, informed, and ready for the first latch. Workshop Link: littlebearlactation.com/workshop