This episode describes what you need to know before your first time working with a breastfeeding parent. This will include topics such as how to ensure families feel comfortable, benefits of and contraindications to breastfeeding, how to approach conversations about breastfeeding, and the science behind lactation or milk production.

• Making families feel comfortable


• Benefits of breastfeeding for mom and baby


• Contraindications to breastfeeding


• Approaching conversations about breastfeeding with families


• The process of lactogenesis (milk production)

Resources/Links: 

• Bella Breastfeeding Curriculum on Open Pediatrics (free): www.openpediatrics.org


• Virginia Department of Health/Breastfeeding Education Consortium Online Course (free for those who live or work in Virginia): https://bfconsortium.org


• American Academy of Pediatrics Residency Breastfeeding Curriculum: https://www.aap.org/en/learning/breastfeeding-curriculum/


• ACOG Statement on Optimizing Support for Breastfeeding: https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2018/10/optimizing-support-for-breastfeeding-as-part-of-obstetric-practice


• AAP Policy Statement: Breastfeeding and the Use of Human Milk, 2022: https://publications.aap.org/journal-blogs/blog/20699/Welcome-to-the-AAP-s-2022-Policy-on-Breastfeeding?autologincheck=redirected#


• US Breastfeeding Guidelines for Mothers with HIV: https://clinicalinfo.hiv.gov/en/guidelines/perinatal/infant-feeding-individuals-hiv-united-states


• NEWT Curve: https://newbornweight.org


• UpToDate “Initiation of Breastfeeding”: https://www.uptodate.com/contents/initiation-of-breastfeeding