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

Is Breastfeeding Birth Control? Understanding Fertility While Breastfeeding Many mothers are told two completely opposite things after having a baby: “Breastfeeding prevents pregnancy.” —or— “You can get pregnant anytime while breastfeeding.” So what’s the truth? In this episode of the Breastfeeding with Confidence Podcast, we explore one of the most common postpartum questions: Can you get pregnant while breastfeeding? The answer lies somewhere in the middle. Breastfeeding can suppress ovulation in many women, but it is not guaranteed birth control. Understanding how fertility returns during breastfeeding can help mothers make informed decisions about family planning, natural birth spacing, and postpartum health. As discussed in this episode, breastfeeding in a healthy woman often suppresses ovulation, but that is not always the case, which is why recognizing the return of fertility signs is so important. RESOURCES:  Get the FREE 5 Mistakes that Sabotage Breastfeeding Guide  FREE Breastfeeding Plan Template Book Breastfeeding Prep Call   Work with Whole Mission  Work with Jaimie Zaki email jaimiezaki@littlebearlactation.com   NEEDED. Nutritional Support (Bioavailable Supplements, Hydration & More)** Motherlove Herbals (Save 15%!)**   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  

If you’re pregnant and planning to breastfeed, you’ve probably already decided you’ll only use formula if it’s medically necessary. But here’s the hard truth: most moms are never taught how to determine what “medically necessary” actually means in the first 48 hours after birth. Nearly 80% of American moms start breastfeeding, yet many babies receive formula in the hospital due to concerns about weight loss, blood sugar, jaundice, or latch issues. The problem? Normal newborn physiology is often presented as urgent. And when you’re exhausted and vulnerable, “just to be safe” supplementation can feel like the only option. In this episode, we break down: How formula pressure typically shows up in baby-friendly hospitals The difference between strategic vs. reactive supplementation How to protect your milk supply if supplementation becomes necessary If your goal is exclusive breastfeeding and avoiding unnecessary formula in the hospital, preparation must go beyond latch tips. You need a decision-making framework before you’re under pressure.   RESOURCES:  Avoiding Formula Workshop: $27 CLICK HERE Concierge Breastfeeding Support: https://www.littlebearlactation.com/breastfeeding-help   NEEDED. Nutritional Support (Bioavailable Supplements, Hydration & More)** Motherlove Herbals (Save 15%!)**   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

Don’t put “breastfeeding” on your birth plan. I know that sounds controversial, but if you are pregnant and planning to exclusively breastfeed, this might be the most important mindset shift you make. Most moms are told to choose a baby friendly hospital, request skin-to-skin, and write “no formula unless medically necessary.” But when feeding challenges show up in the hospital, many still end up supplementing because they were never prepared for what actually happens in those first hours and days. In this episode, we talk about why traditional breastfeeding prep often falls short and why avoiding unnecessary formula requires a completely different approach. You will learn why breastfeeding is not just a newborn care topic, but something that begins during pregnancy and is shaped by your birth experience and early postpartum decisions. We unpack the biggest gap in breastfeeding education, the difference between safety-focused hospital care and strategic breastfeeding support, and why early feeding challenges like cluster feeding, sleepy babies, and latch struggles are often misunderstood. If you want to protect your milk supply, confidently advocate for your goals, and walk into birth with a clear plan instead of just a wish list, this episode will change the way you think about breastfeeding prep. To go deeper and create your own strategy, learn more about the Avoiding Formula in the Hospital workshop using the link in the show notes. Because breastfeeding is not about luck. It is about preparation. RESOURCES:  Get the FREE 5 Mistakes that Sabotage Breastfeeding Guide  Avoiding Formula Workshop: $27 CLICK HERE Concierge Breastfeeding Support: https://www.littlebearlactation.com/breastfeeding-help   NEEDED. Nutritional Support (Bioavailable Supplements, Hydration & More)** Motherlove Herbals (Save 15%!)**   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   Topics Covered: breastfeeding prep during pregnancy how to prepare for breastfeeding before birth what to put on a breastfeeding birth plan breastfeeding birth plan strategy how to avoid formula in the hospital avoiding unnecessary formula after birth exclusive breastfeeding in the hospital how to advocate for breastfeeding in the hospital baby friendly hospital breastfeeding myths does baby friendly hospital mean no formula protecting milk supply in the first 72 hours what to do if baby will not latch in the hospital cluster feeding vs low milk supply normal newborn feeding behavior explained sleepy newborn not feeding enough fussy baby breastfeeding in early days early latch problems and solutions how to protect breastfeeding after a difficult birth preventing breastfeeding struggles from the start why breastfeeding fails in the first week how to build milk supply after birth hand expression before milk comes in how to respond when formula is suggested how to know if baby needs formula hospital supplementation and breastfeeding newborn weight loss and breastfeeding blood sugar concerns and breastfeeding   breastfeeding confidence before birth partner support for breastfeeding success breastfeeding education for first time moms  

Returning to work or school as a breastfeeding mom can feel overwhelming. Many pregnant and postpartum women worry they will have to choose between their breastfeeding goals and their career. But the truth is, you don’t have to—if you prepare early and get the right support. In this episode of the Breastfeeding With Confidence Podcast, we talk about the biggest mistake moms make when planning their return to work: assuming breastfeeding is supposed to be hard for the first 6–12 weeks and waiting too long to get help. When breastfeeding pain, low milk supply, or latch issues are ignored early, the transition back to work becomes much more stressful. You’ll learn when to introduce bottles without sabotaging your breastfeeding relationship, how paced bottle feeding helps prevent bottle preference, and why your caregiver’s feeding approach can protect or undermine your milk supply. We also cover realistic expectations for pumping at work, your legal rights for pumping accommodations, and how to advocate for yourself before your maternity leave ends. The key to exclusive breastfeeding while working is getting breastfeeding off to a strong start. Early support helps you prevent common challenges, protect your supply, and feel confident returning to work. RESOURCES:  Get the FREE 5 Mistakes that Sabotage Breastfeeding Guide  Breastfeeding Academy: www.littlebearlactation.com/library   Concierge Breastfeeding Support: https://www.littlebearlactation.com/breastfeeding-help   For Doulas seeking advanced lactation education & expert curated breastfeeding support frameworks, check out Breastfeeding Beyond the Birth Plan Here: https://www.littlebearlactation.com/doula-class   NEEDED. Nutritional Support (Bioavailable Supplements, Hydration & More)** Motherlove Herbals (Save 15%!)**   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     Topics Covered in this Episode Include:  returning to work while breastfeeding breastfeeding and going back to work how to continue breastfeeding when returning to work exclusive breastfeeding and working pumping at work tips breastfeeding after maternity leave maintaining milk supply at work back to work breastfeeding schedule working mom breastfeeding  

Is baby formula really the key to marriage equality? That’s the provocative claim behind a recent New York Times article—and in this episode of the Breastfeeding With Confidence Podcast, Jaimie (IBCLC, mom of five) sits down with her husband Sebastian to unpack why that headline isn’t just misleading… it’s dangerous. Because when we frame formula feeding as the solution to an unequal marriage, we quietly teach families that breastfeeding is the problem—instead of asking the deeper question: 👉 If a marriage feels lopsided after a baby arrives, is feeding really the cause—or just where the cracks show up? Topics Covered in This Episode The New York Times headline “The Secret to Marriage Equality Is Formula” and why it’s problematic Equality vs sameness in marriage and parenting Why breastfeeding often becomes the scapegoat for deeper relationship issues How media narratives subtly undermine breastfeeding and femininity Formula as a tool vs formula as a cultural solution The myth that combo feeding information is “sparse” How inconsistent supplementation impacts milk supply (biology vs opinion) Why “fed is best” rhetoric often avoids root-cause problem solving A father’s perspective on feeling “left out” during breastfeeding What real support from dads actually looks like (without feeding) Why bonding is not dependent on putting milk in a baby’s mouth Breastfeeding as a short season vs marriage as the foundation How cultural normalization shapes parental expectations and decisions RESOURCES & PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS FREE 5 Breastfeeding Mistakes to Avoid  Confident Mama Breastfeeding Academy  Supplementing for Breastfeeding Moms Mini Course  Book a Virtual Lactation Consultant  For Doulas seeking advanced lactation education & expert curated breastfeeding support frameworks, check out Breastfeeding Beyond the Birth Plan Here: https://www.littlebearlactation.com/birthworkers/lactation-education-for-doulas NEEDED. Nutritional Support (Bioavailable Supplements, Hydration & More) SAVE 20% ON YOUR FIRST ORDER!!!!   Topics Covered: breastfeeding and marriage, formula vs breastfeeding, marriage equality and parenting, equality vs sameness in marriage, breastfeeding support for couples, fathers and breastfeeding roles, feeling left out as a dad, breastfeeding misinformation, combo feeding and milk supply, fed is best narrative, media influence on infant feeding, breastfeeding and femininity, partner support during breastfeeding, postpartum relationship dynamics, breastfeeding education gaps

What happens to your milk supply if you’re separated from your baby after birth? If you’re pregnant and this question has quietly been sitting in the back of your mind, this episode is for you. Whether you’re planning a hospital birth with the possibility of monitoring or NICU time, or you’re planning a home birth but know that transfer is always a possibility, separation can feel scary — especially when breastfeeding matters deeply to you. Here’s the good news: breastfeeding can still work even if you’re separated from your baby after birth. A rough start does not mean your journey is over. In this episode of the Breastfeeding With Confidence podcast, we talk about how to protect your milk supply if mom and baby are separated, without panic, rigid rules, or feeling like everything is ruined if birth doesn’t go exactly as planned. You’ll learn: How milk supply is established in the early postpartum days Why early milk production is time-sensitive (and what that actually means) What to do if your baby can’t latch or is taken for monitoring or NICU care How pumping, hand expression, and advocacy protect your supply Why preparation — not luck — makes the biggest difference We also talk directly to moms planning home births and walk through why it’s still important to have a flexible breastfeeding plan, even if separation feels unlikely. Knowing how to advocate early, ask for support, and stimulate milk production can make a powerful difference in long-term breastfeeding success. Separation is not ideal — but it is not a deal breaker. With the right plan and early action, you can protect your milk supply and move forward with confidence.   RESOURCES & PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS   BREASTFEEDING RESOURCES FREE 5 Breastfeeding Mistakes to Avoid  Confident Mama Breastfeeding Academy  Supplementing for Breastfeeding Moms Mini Course  Book a Virtual Lactation Consultant  For Doulas seeking advanced lactation education & expert curated breastfeeding support frameworks, check out this FREE Doula Training    NUTRITIONAL SUPPORT FOR PREGNANT & NEW MOTHERS 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 NEEDED. Nutritional Support (Bioavailable Supplements, Hydration & More) SAVE 20% ON YOUR FIRST ORDER!!!!

Should you wake a sleeping baby to breastfeed — or is “never wake a sleeping baby” actually hurting your milk supply? This is one of the most confusing and anxiety-producing questions new parents ask, especially in the early weeks of breastfeeding. One person tells you to let your baby sleep as long as they want. Another warns that if you don’t wake every 2–3 hours, your milk supply will tank. So which advice is actually correct? In this episode of The Breastfeeding with Confidence Podcast, we break down when waking a sleeping baby to nurse is necessary, when it’s optional, and when it can actually backfire. You’ll learn how a newborn’s age, weight gain, feeding effectiveness, and overall patterns matter far more than the clock. We also talk about why long stretches of sleep can sometimes signal that feeding is hard — not that everything is going great. If you’re wondering how long a newborn can sleep between feeds, whether you should wake a sleepy baby at night, or how sleep affects milk supply, this episode will give you clarity without fear-based rules. You’ll walk away with a simple framework to help you make confident, informed decisions — while still trusting your instincts and protecting your breastfeeding relationship. 🎧 Perfect for pregnant moms and new parents navigating night feeds, milk supply concerns, and conflicting advice. RESOURCES  RESOURCES:    Get the FREE 5 Mistakes that Sabotage Breastfeeding Guide  Baby Prep: Avoiding Unnecessary Formula Workshop  Breastfeeding Solutions: Breastfeeding Success Guide Bundle   Concierge Breastfeeding Support: https://www.littlebearlactation.com/breastfeeding-help   For Doulas seeking advanced lactation education & expert curated breastfeeding support frameworks, check out Breastfeeding Beyond the Birth Plan Here: https://www.littlebearlactation.com/birthworkers/lactation-education-for-doulas   NEEDED. Nutritional Support (Bioavailable Supplements, Hydration & More)** Motherlove Herbals (Save 15%!)**   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   * Topics Covered: infant sleep patterns, newborn sleep, should I wake baby to sleep, protecting milk supply, jaundice baby tips, never wake a sleeping baby    **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.

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     For Doulas seeking advanced lactation education & expert curated breastfeeding support frameworks, check out Breastfeeding Beyond the Birth Plan Here: https://www.littlebearlactation.com/birthworkers/lactation-education-for-doulas   NEEDED. Nutritional Support (Bioavailable Supplements, Hydration & More)** Motherlove Herbals (Save 15%!)**   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   * 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  For Doulas seeking advanced lactation education & expert curated breastfeeding support frameworks, check out Breastfeeding Beyond the Birth Plan Here: https://www.littlebearlactation.com/birthworkers/lactation-education-for-doulas 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  For Doulas seeking advanced lactation education & expert curated breastfeeding support frameworks, check out Breastfeeding Beyond the Birth Plan Here: https://www.littlebearlactation.com/birthworkers/lactation-education-for-doulas 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  For Doulas seeking advanced lactation education & expert curated breastfeeding support frameworks, check out Breastfeeding Beyond the Birth Plan Here: https://www.littlebearlactation.com/birthworkers/lactation-education-for-doulas 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"  For Doulas seeking advanced lactation education & expert curated breastfeeding support frameworks, check out Breastfeeding Beyond the Birth Plan Here: https://www.littlebearlactation.com/birthworkers/lactation-education-for-doulas

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  For Doulas seeking advanced lactation education & expert curated breastfeeding support frameworks, check out Breastfeeding Beyond the Birth Plan Here: https://www.littlebearlactation.com/birthworkers/lactation-education-for-doulas 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