September 23, 2025 • 25 mins
In this episode, I'm sharing everything you need to know about breastfeeding before your baby arrives—because preparing for this beautiful journey is just as important as preparing for birth itself. Too many mamas focus all their energy on delivery day but don't think about the feeding relationship that follows, and I don't want that to be you.
Whether you're pregnant and considering breastfeeding, already planning to nurse your baby, or have had challenges in the past and want to set yourself up for success this time—this episode is packed with encouragement, practical wisdom, and the preparation tools you need.
I'll be honest: breastfeeding is natural, but it's also a learned skill. And just like you wouldn't run a marathon without training, breastfeeding success really starts with education before baby arrives. But here's what I want you to know—however you choose to feed your baby, there is so much grace in that decision.
In this episode, I share:
🤱 The incredible benefits of breastfeeding for both baby and mama (including some that might surprise you)
📚 Why preparation during pregnancy is the key to breastfeeding confidence
🆘 How to recognize normal challenges vs. when to seek help immediately
👥 The support system that makes all the difference in your breastfeeding journey
💰 Practical benefits you might not have considered (financial, environmental, and convenience)
✨ Resources that have helped countless families succeed in their breastfeeding goals
Scripture Shared: "Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has born? Though she may forget, I will not forget you." – Isaiah 49:15
Mentioned in this episode:
📖 Breastfeeding Made Simple - One of my favorite breastfeeding book recommendations
🤝 La Leche League - Breastfeeding support groups online and in-person
✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library: Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more
💛 Work with Me 1:1 - Personalized pregnancy and birth support that integrates faith and evidence-based care, including virtual coaching, doula support, and comprehensive childbirth education (includes breastfeeding basics).
If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a mama who needs to hear this. Remember—you're loved, you're equipped, and you're doing an amazing job.
Let's prepare well together, one feeding journey at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:00):
Hello, beautiful mama andwelcome back to the podcast.
I'm so excited that you're herewith me today because we're
going over a whole episode aboutbreastfeeding because I've
noticed this is an aspect ofmotherhood that can be easily
overlooked.
There are so many moms thatfocus a lot of their energy on
preparing for the birth itself,but they don't spend a ton of
(00:22):
time thinking about thebreastfeeding journey that
follows.
So it's like planning for yourwedding day, but not for your
actual marriage.
So today I want to share withyou some encouragement and
practical information about thisincredible journey, and I hope
it really blesses you.
But before we dive in.
I do want to share somethingthat's been on my heart because
(00:44):
I think breastfeeding can stirup some feelings for many of us.
I'm gonna be talking today aboutthe benefits of breastfeeding
and how to set yourself up forsuccess.
And I share this information tobenefit you as you're making
this decision for your family.
But I want to say if you did notbreastfeed your baby, whether
that was your choice or that wasjust the way things worked out
(01:08):
and that really saddened you.
There is so much grace in that,and although I've had the honor
to be able to exclusivelybreastfeed my two babies, I know
that is not possible or evenpreferred by many moms.
I want to share this informationso that you can know and pray
about where the Lord is leadingyou and your family to decide
(01:29):
how you're gonna feed yourprecious baby.
And every family's situation isdifferent, and what matters most
is that your baby is fed, thatthis baby is loved and cared
for, and that you have a peaceabout the decisions you are
making for your family.
So whether you're currentlypregnant.
And thinking aboutbreastfeeding.
You're a new mama just startingout.
(01:50):
Maybe you've already startedthis breastfeeding journey.
Or maybe you've breastfedpreviously or you weren't able
to breastfeed previously, andthat's what you're hoping to do.
This time, you are in the rightplace.
So I just wanted to share withyou some of the amazing.
Benefits of breastfeeding.
We're gonna talk about some ofthe ways you can set yourself up
for success.
And then I'm also going to justgive you some incredible
(02:11):
resources that have helped somany of the families that I've
worked with.
So let's dive into thisbeautiful topic together.
I.
So we'll start by talking aboutjust how remarkable
breastfeeding truly is.
When I share these benefits,which again, this is not every
single benefit known to man forthe benefits of breastfeeding,
but just some of them that Ireally think are incredible to
(02:32):
highlight.
I am just amazed by God'sincredible design.
Of our bodies and how hedesigned the breastfeeding
process.
It's just so beautiful how it'sperfectly works together.
So first we're gonna talk aboutthe benefits to your baby.
So your breast milk is liquidgold.
(02:52):
You may have heard it calledthat.
And it's packed with antibodies.
And this gives your little onepassive immunity against
infections.
And that looks like a 36 to 50%reduction in ear infections.
Respiratory infections andthings like stomach bugs.
And then there's also researchthat shows many benefits up to
(03:14):
50% lower risk of sids, which issudden infant death syndrome.
And I remember, especially withEllie, my first feeling very
paranoid about sids.
But just to know thatbreastfeeding significantly
lowered, that did make me havejust more peace of mind.
And then the nutritional side isabsolutely incredible too.
(03:36):
Your breast milk changesthroughout the day.
As your baby grows, it starts tochange so it can meet their
exact needs.
And it's just perfectly designedwith the correct amount of
proteins, fats and all the, justvarious different aspects of the
milk is just.
Perfectly formulated for yourindividual baby or babies.
(03:59):
Plus it sets up their gut forthe right bacteria for lifelong
health.
So it's not only just, you know,obviously short term, you know,
they're less sick and all thesethings, but long term health
benefits the DHA and othernutrients that are in breast
milk are building your baby'sbrain and helping their eyes
develop perfectly.
(04:20):
And then here's something thatreally gets me excited too.
Again, talking about long-termbenefits.
But babies who are breastfedhave 15 to 30% lower rates of
childhood obesity.
They're less likely to developthings like diabetes.
And there's even researchshowing reduced rates of
childhood leukemia.
So some of these studies havefound enhanced cognitive
(04:41):
development too, and.
Again, it's just amazing howthis one choice can impact your
child's entire lifelong health.
So now we're gonna hop into someof the benefits for Mama because
breastfeeding isn't just goodfor baby.
It's also really fantastic foryou too.
Right after birth, the oxytocinrelease that happens when your
(05:04):
breasts, your nipples arestimulated, helps your uterus
contract so it can go back downto its pre-pregnancy size
faster.
And what this means for you isthat you bleed less and you heal
much faster.
And yes, you also burn a ton ofcalories, 300 to 500 calories on
average a day.
(05:25):
Just simply breastfeeding, andthat can certainly help with
just gradual healthy weight lossafter you've had the baby.
And then the long-term benefitsto you are also remarkable.
For every 12 months that youbreastfeed, you reduce your
breast cancer risk by 4.3%.
And you also have a 30% lowerrisk of ovarian cancer, your
(05:48):
bones become stronger in thelong run despite the temporary
calcium your body uses for milkproduction.
It's.
It's all a way to just, again,invest in your long-term health
as well.
And then there's also emotionalbenefits.
So all the hormones, theoxytocin and the prolactin,
these are not only helping withmilk production, but they're
(06:09):
also promoting bonding betweenyou and your baby.
These are also gonna help youfeel more relaxed.
And then research even showsthat it can even help reduce the
risk of experiencing postpartumdepression and anxiety.
And then I know some of you'rethinking about the practical
side too of going thebreastfeeding route.
So let's talk about the benefitsfinancially.
(06:31):
And so they're pretty amazing.
Most families save between 1500and$4,000 a year.
On not having to buy formula.
And beyond that, breastfeedingbabies are also healthier, which
means you are spending less timeat the doctor for other
healthcare costs.
(06:52):
Plus time off work to care foryour sick baby.
And then from a conveniencestandpoint, breast milk is
always ready and available.
It's the right temperature.
You don't have to worry about itspoiling inside your breasts you
know, whether you're at home at3:00 AM.
Or you're traveling across thecountry, everything you need is
right there.
(07:12):
You don't have to mix formula,you don't have to sterilize
bottles, you don't have to worryabout contamination.
And then for those of you whocare more, you know about the
environmental impact,breastfeeding is the ultimate
sustainable feeding choice inregards to there's no packaging
waste.
There's no manufacturing carbonfootprint, and it's completely
renewable.
And I had a mom that I workedwith last year who was so
(07:34):
worried about whether or not shecould breastfeed successfully,
and she had tried with herfirst, but really struggled with
supply issues and just felt likeshe had failed.
So this time we worked together.
During her pregnancy, she tookmy childbirth ed class, and when
her second was born, she was somuch more prepared and she
texted me at six months saying.
I finally understand what itmeans, to enjoy this
(07:57):
breastfeeding experience.
And she just feels so much moreconnected to her baby and she
was sad to think about weaningand that's the kind of
transformation that I hope andpray for you, that you would
enjoy this breastfeeding.
Experience this journey thatyes, it is certainly challenging
at times.
There were so many times,especially with Ellie's
(08:18):
breastfeeding journey, I justwanted to give up.
I was concerned about my supply,even though I really didn't have
any cause for that.
I just was like comparing myselfto other people and whatever,
and like things on Instagram,people pumping copious amounts
that I could never do somethinglike that.
It just really got in my head.
But that there is such a joy init.
But I think it comes withpreparing yourself to be
(08:41):
successful.
For most of us it does not comeso, so naturally where it just
happens without any effort.
Like there, there is effort toit, it's a skill that you're
learning.
So yeah.
So this brings up something I'mreally passionate about, which
is.
Preparation, just like youwouldn't run a marathon without
training, breastfeeding successreally starts with education
(09:03):
before your baby is even here.
So I see so many moms who thinkbreastfeeding will come
naturally because yes, it is anatural process.
You know, we might have thatnatural desire, but the
technique needs to be learned.
And there are key things thatevery expecting mom should
understand, and that's, youknow, how to achieve a proper
latch.
(09:23):
What that looks like, what thatfeels like.
different positions, different,you know, ways you can hold the
baby while nursing.
And then, you know, justunderstanding how supply and
demand works, understanding alittle bit more of the science
behind that because your bodytruly does know what to do.
It knows how to make the milk,but if you're not sure, you know
(09:45):
how to.
To nurse frequently enough andthings like that, your supply
will just not be able to keep upwith your babies demand and what
they need.
The other thing is good to knowabout things like growth spurts
and cluster feeding.
I cannot tell you how manyfrantic moms are texting me
saying my baby just wants to.
(10:05):
All the time.
I don't think I have enoughmilk.
And you know, it's reallysimple.
Sometimes babies just go throughthese stretches where all they
wanna do is nurse all day long.
And you're like, something iswrong with me, something's wrong
with my body, something's wrongwith my baby.
But this is a perfectly normalprocess.
And just having that word ofencouragement that like this is
normal, everything's okay.
(10:25):
It can change the game for youbecause knowledge is Power Mama.
And it gives you so muchconfidence to step into this
season and this journey.
Not in fear.
And then this is, some of thethings that I like to also teach
in my online childbirth edclass.
I just see the benefits of,knowing what to expect, what's
normal, how to troubleshootcommon issues so that you're
(10:49):
just more likely to have apositive experience.
And then having that informationin pregnancy allows you to
really absorb it and to askquestions.
And then, you're not overwhelmedwhen you're trying to learn this
with your newborn and you'resleep deprived and you're
already overwhelmed and you justare like, I can't take in any
more information right now.
(11:09):
So in my course, I like to coverunderstanding baby's hunger
cues, so when to tell whenthey're hungry, how to latch
your baby, knowing when to reachout for help.
Because here's the thing, I wantyou to feel confident and
prepared.
Not anxious and uncertain.
And so some resources that Ilove to share, there's a book,
it's called Breastfeeding MadeSimple.
(11:30):
I'll put that book in the shownotes.
But what I love about this bookis that it's evidence-based.
It's written by I-B-C-L-C.
Cs.
These are women who are likegold standard of lactation
consulting.
But they don't overwhelm youwith information.
Everything's given very clearly.
They break down just like thenatural laws of breastfeeding in
(11:50):
a way that's.
It makes sense.
It addresses those commonconcerns that I've been hinting
at.
And then the best part too is ifyou're not able to sit and
actually read the book, it comesin audio book format as well.
That was always a lifesaver forme'cause I'm like a big podcast
audio book listener.
And if I'm in the car, or evenwhenever I was nursing, I
(12:10):
remember I was nursing Ellie andlistening to breastfeeding books
as I was nursing her in themiddle of the night, both to
keep me up, but also to, to justlearn some tips and tricks.
'cause there's so much to learnabout breastfeeding.
But yeah, so you can multitaskand absorb that information.
And then beyond books I cannotstress enough the importance of
having lactation consultingsupport so most hospitals will
(12:35):
have a lactation consultantthere to help you while you're
in the hospital.
Sometimes their hours are alittle weird, so depending on
the time you deliver you may ormay not be able to see her, but
definitely seek out thatsupport.
But then you can also hire alactation consultant.
You know, once you're home, andI do have some recommendations
(12:57):
here locally, but definitelylook into lactation consultants
in your area.
Go on Facebook and like momgroups ask around for about
lactation consultants.
Look up with your insurancebecause it.
It most of the time they docover lactation consultants to a
degree talk with friends andfamily who they might have used.
And then there's anotherresource, LA Leche League.
(13:18):
This is a group that has beenaround for a really long time
and they even have likein-person support groups.
They also have online supportgroups.
And that's a great way to justalso be in community, literally
with other women that are in thesame stage of life as you.
And then, you know, this kind ofbrings me to wanting to
(13:38):
highlight the benefits of doulasupport for breastfeeding
success.
Obviously, I'm a doula, so I'm alittle partial to this, so many
people think that doulas arejust for birth, but.
We really go beyond thatsupporting you through those
first, six weeks or so.
So I remember I had one mom whoshe had a beautiful birth
experience, but when she got tothat first breastfeeding
(14:00):
session, the baby just did notwant to latch.
And instead of it being thatmagical moment, that golden hour
that she had imagined, she wasreally frustrated because the
baby was not latching, baby wasgetting more frustrated, but
then having someone there.
To just, you know, give sometips and tricks or just say,
Hey, this is okay, this isnormal.
(14:21):
Or even, let's just give it abreak.
Let's just do some skin to skin.
Let's all just have a breatherand kind of calm down.
That makes all the differencewhen you're going through that
experience.
And so as a doula and doulaswe're, we are there to help in
that immediate postpartum timewith positioning.
Watching out for signs of a goodlatch or a not so good latch and
(14:43):
just giving you some like tipsand tricks and just helping you
troubleshoot so that things cango as smoothly as possible.
You know, we can also help younotice when there are potential
issues earlier on so that theydon't become these huge, massive
problems that are much harder toovercome later.
And then beyond, like thattechnical support, there's so
(15:05):
much value in just havingsomebody who's in your corner,
who believes in you, whobelieves in your body's ability
to do this whole thing.
And then in those moments whenyou're just tired and doubting
yourself, it can mean the worldto just have someone say, you're
doing great.
I know this is hard work.
Let's maybe make this smalladjustment and that
encouragement can just changeeverything for you.
(15:27):
Research also consistently showsthat moms who have doula support
have higher rates ofbreastfeeding success, and they
tend to breastfeed for longer.
So when we, doulas help connectyou with lactation consulting
that's gonna be like theultimate wraparound support.
You know, of course, doulas aregonna be there for the typical
(15:48):
issues and struggles andchallenges, but if you start to
notice you're having a lot morechallenges there's just some
other things at play with youor, and or baby.
Having that lactation consultantbrought into the fold can just
go such a long way.
If your goal is to breastfeedyour baby for, you know, as long
as you can.
Support is everything.
(16:09):
And you know, I say it all thetime.
We were not meant to do thisalone.
And breastfeeding is certainlyno exception.
I think it really does take avillage for women to breastfeed
confidently and meet theirbreastfeeding goals.
I remember again with Ellie, myfirst.
There were a couple times whereI almost completely gave up
because I, my confidence was sodeflated.
(16:31):
There was not anythingphysically.
Indicating that Ellie was likenot thriving with the breast
milk or anything, but I had justgotten into my head too much
about doubting myself and my momand my sisters, who all
breastfed their babies were suchan encouragement to me and just
kept me going and I'm so glad Ididn't listen to the fear that I
(16:52):
was experiencing in my heart andmy mind, and I really leaned on
their wisdom and theirencouragement.
To really bring me through theother side.
So that was such a blessing tome, and I hope you also have
those people in your corner,whether that's a doula, whether
that's a lactation consultant, afriend, your mom your sisters,
whoever.
It's really important to havethat support system in place.
(17:16):
And so as we wrap up today'sepisode, I would love to leave
you with a little bit moreencouragement.
Just understand learning theskill of breastfeeding is a
learning curve.
And just like learning any newskill, it will take time for you
and your baby to figure thisout.
And there's no such thing asbreastfeeding failure.
There's just different journeys.
(17:37):
So fight against that feelingand that need to want to compare
yourself.
Your breastfeeding journey upagainst someone else's.
And again, do not struggle insilence If you're having
challenges, the worst thing youcan do is just try to brush it
under the rug and hope it'sgonna go away.
Seek help as soon as you'renoticing issues because time is
(17:57):
of the essence.
Like the sooner you can get thatsupport.
The less issue you're gonnahave, and the less intense it
will be as you let things, youknow, just get outta control.
For example, if your latch whenbaby latches, it's really
uncomfortable, it's likelybecause they had a latch or two
that was really uncomfortableand they damage the nipples.
(18:19):
Okay.
But there are some, so manypractical things we can do to
help heal that nipple so thatevery time you nurse, you're not
just like.
It's curling your toes and it'sso painful.
So just learning those littletips and tricks can go such a
long way.
And then also you get to enjoyit so much more.
And then also just make surethat you're doing that
preparation ahead of time.
(18:41):
Breastfeeding made simple.
Please check out that book oraudio, book it, it's so
important to just lay thatfoundation educationally.
And then I also would encourageyou to look into taking my
online childbirth ed class,which includes, you know,
covering the basics ofbreastfeeding.
And then if you're looking forpersonalized support I would
(19:02):
also love for you to reach outto me for virtual birth support
and just see how I can possiblyserve you and your family.
So now I want to leave you withthis beautiful reminder from
scripture, and this comes fromIsaiah 49 15 and it says, can a
mother forget the baby at herbreast and have no compassion on
the child she is born.
(19:24):
Though she may forget, I willnot forget you.
And I love this verse because itcaptures the profound bond that
happens between a nursing mamaand her baby.
And that connection is so deepand so instinctive that God uses
it to describe.
His unfailing love for us.
My pastor recently shared howthis beautiful word picture for
(19:48):
the Hebrew word"hesed", and it'soften translated as steadfast
love, and it's been understoodto carry this like imagery of.
A mom who when she hears herbaby cry, her milk lets down and
it starts to flow.
And you know, just as a mom'sbody responds immediately and
(20:09):
instinctively to her child'sneeds.
God's steadfast love responds tous with that same immediacy and
faithfulness, and that is justso beautiful to me.
Like that the Lord really hasjust designed this process to
just show another facet of hislove and his faithfulness for us
(20:32):
as his children.
So now I'd love to just close usout in prayer and, just, yeah.
Leave you with this finalencouragement.
Dear Jesus, we just thank youfor the incredible design that
you have created for motherhoodand the gift of being able to
breastfeed and nourish ourbabies with our own bodies.
(20:56):
I just pray for the mama who'slistening right now, whether
she's pregnant and preparing forthis, or she is in the midst of
her breastfeeding journey.
I pray that you would just giveher confidence in your design
and just patience for herself asshe's learning this process.
And then, Lord, just give herthe wisdom to seek out when she
might need help.
(21:17):
I pray, Lord, that you wouldjust surround her with
supportive, encouraging peoplethat can just uplift her and
help her to see that thisbreastfeeding journey is a hard
one battle, but it is not aburden.
And it is not something that sheneeds to be perfect at.
But Lord, just help her to seethat it's an expression of your
love working through her andthat when those challenges do
(21:39):
come, because they will remindher that she's.
Fearfully and wonderfully madeand that you have equipped her
for this calling.
I just pray, Lord, that youwould bless her and her baby and
that bond that they're creatingthrough breastfeeding, and I
just pray that those feedingmoments that they get are just
times of connection and peaceand joy and Lord, that you would
(22:00):
just, ultimately, let her knowhow deeply you love and care for
her as she's seeing it throughher eyes as a mother towards her
child.
We just love you, Jesus.
And we thank you so much forjust the way you love us.
It's in your name I pray.
Amen.
So thank you so much for joiningme today on this episode.
(22:21):
And just to remind you again,however you choose to feed your
baby, whether that'sbreastfeeding, formula feeding,
or you know, a combination ofboth.
What matters most is that youare providing your baby with
love and nourishment and caringfor them.
And there is so much grace inthis feeding journey and I just.
Pray that whatever path youchoose, whatever the Lord has
(22:42):
for you in this journey, thatyou would have confidence and
peace with those decisions.
And please, share this episodewith some other mamas that you
think this would be anencouragement to, whether
they're preparing or maybe inthe midst of it just share this
with them as well.
And you can also find me onInstagram at Faith Over Fear
Birth Doula, and on my website,faith Over Fear birth.com.
(23:06):
And I just love connecting withyou.
All and just hearing your, justwords of encouragement and just
so excited to just champion youas you are going through this
season.
But until next time, mama,remember that you're loved, you
are equipped, and that you'redoing such an amazing job.
I will talk with you soon.
Bye-bye for now.
Hello, beautiful mama andwelcome back to the podcast.
I'm so excited that you're herewith me today because we're
going over a whole episode aboutbreastfeeding because I've
noticed this is an aspect ofmotherhood that can be easily
overlooked.
There are so many moms thatfocus a lot of their energy on
preparing for the birth itself,but they don't spend a ton of
(00:22):
time thinking about thebreastfeeding journey that
follows.
So it's like planning for yourwedding day, but not for your
actual marriage.
So today I want to share withyou some encouragement and
practical information about thisincredible journey, and I hope
it really blesses you.
But before we dive in.
I do want to share somethingthat's been on my heart because
(00:44):
I think breastfeeding can stirup some feelings for many of us.
I'm gonna be talking today aboutthe benefits of breastfeeding
and how to set yourself up forsuccess.
And I share this information tobenefit you as you're making
this decision for your family.
But I want to say if you did notbreastfeed your baby, whether
that was your choice or that wasjust the way things worked out
(01:08):
and that really saddened you.
There is so much grace in that,and although I've had the honor
to be able to exclusivelybreastfeed my two babies, I know
that is not possible or evenpreferred by many moms.
I want to share this informationso that you can know and pray
about where the Lord is leadingyou and your family to decide
(01:29):
how you're gonna feed yourprecious baby.
And every family's situation isdifferent, and what matters most
is that your baby is fed, thatthis baby is loved and cared
for, and that you have a peaceabout the decisions you are
making for your family.
So whether you're currentlypregnant.
And thinking aboutbreastfeeding.
You're a new mama just startingout.
(01:50):
Maybe you've already startedthis breastfeeding journey.
Or maybe you've breastfedpreviously or you weren't able
to breastfeed previously, andthat's what you're hoping to do.
This time, you are in the rightplace.
So I just wanted to share withyou some of the amazing.
Benefits of breastfeeding.
We're gonna talk about some ofthe ways you can set yourself up
for success.
And then I'm also going to justgive you some incredible
(02:11):
resources that have helped somany of the families that I've
worked with.
So let's dive into thisbeautiful topic together.
I.
So we'll start by talking aboutjust how remarkable
breastfeeding truly is.
When I share these benefits,which again, this is not every
single benefit known to man forthe benefits of breastfeeding,
but just some of them that Ireally think are incredible to
(02:32):
highlight.
I am just amazed by God'sincredible design.
Of our bodies and how hedesigned the breastfeeding
process.
It's just so beautiful how it'sperfectly works together.
So first we're gonna talk aboutthe benefits to your baby.
So your breast milk is liquidgold.
(02:52):
You may have heard it calledthat.
And it's packed with antibodies.
And this gives your little onepassive immunity against
infections.
And that looks like a 36 to 50%reduction in ear infections.
Respiratory infections andthings like stomach bugs.
And then there's also researchthat shows many benefits up to
(03:14):
50% lower risk of sids, which issudden infant death syndrome.
And I remember, especially withEllie, my first feeling very
paranoid about sids.
But just to know thatbreastfeeding significantly
lowered, that did make me havejust more peace of mind.
And then the nutritional side isabsolutely incredible too.
(03:36):
Your breast milk changesthroughout the day.
As your baby grows, it starts tochange so it can meet their
exact needs.
And it's just perfectly designedwith the correct amount of
proteins, fats and all the, justvarious different aspects of the
milk is just.
Perfectly formulated for yourindividual baby or babies.
(03:59):
Plus it sets up their gut forthe right bacteria for lifelong
health.
So it's not only just, you know,obviously short term, you know,
they're less sick and all thesethings, but long term health
benefits the DHA and othernutrients that are in breast
milk are building your baby'sbrain and helping their eyes
develop perfectly.
(04:20):
And then here's something thatreally gets me excited too.
Again, talking about long-termbenefits.
But babies who are breastfedhave 15 to 30% lower rates of
childhood obesity.
They're less likely to developthings like diabetes.
And there's even researchshowing reduced rates of
childhood leukemia.
So some of these studies havefound enhanced cognitive
(04:41):
development too, and.
Again, it's just amazing howthis one choice can impact your
child's entire lifelong health.
So now we're gonna hop into someof the benefits for Mama because
breastfeeding isn't just goodfor baby.
It's also really fantastic foryou too.
Right after birth, the oxytocinrelease that happens when your
(05:04):
breasts, your nipples arestimulated, helps your uterus
contract so it can go back downto its pre-pregnancy size
faster.
And what this means for you isthat you bleed less and you heal
much faster.
And yes, you also burn a ton ofcalories, 300 to 500 calories on
average a day.
(05:25):
Just simply breastfeeding, andthat can certainly help with
just gradual healthy weight lossafter you've had the baby.
And then the long-term benefitsto you are also remarkable.
For every 12 months that youbreastfeed, you reduce your
breast cancer risk by 4.3%.
And you also have a 30% lowerrisk of ovarian cancer, your
(05:48):
bones become stronger in thelong run despite the temporary
calcium your body uses for milkproduction.
It's.
It's all a way to just, again,invest in your long-term health
as well.
And then there's also emotionalbenefits.
So all the hormones, theoxytocin and the prolactin,
these are not only helping withmilk production, but they're
(06:09):
also promoting bonding betweenyou and your baby.
These are also gonna help youfeel more relaxed.
And then research even showsthat it can even help reduce the
risk of experiencing postpartumdepression and anxiety.
And then I know some of you'rethinking about the practical
side too of going thebreastfeeding route.
So let's talk about the benefitsfinancially.
(06:31):
And so they're pretty amazing.
Most families save between 1500and$4,000 a year.
On not having to buy formula.
And beyond that, breastfeedingbabies are also healthier, which
means you are spending less timeat the doctor for other
healthcare costs.
(06:52):
Plus time off work to care foryour sick baby.
And then from a conveniencestandpoint, breast milk is
always ready and available.
It's the right temperature.
You don't have to worry about itspoiling inside your breasts you
know, whether you're at home at3:00 AM.
Or you're traveling across thecountry, everything you need is
right there.
(07:12):
You don't have to mix formula,you don't have to sterilize
bottles, you don't have to worryabout contamination.
And then for those of you whocare more, you know about the
environmental impact,breastfeeding is the ultimate
sustainable feeding choice inregards to there's no packaging
waste.
There's no manufacturing carbonfootprint, and it's completely
renewable.
And I had a mom that I workedwith last year who was so
(07:34):
worried about whether or not shecould breastfeed successfully,
and she had tried with herfirst, but really struggled with
supply issues and just felt likeshe had failed.
So this time we worked together.
During her pregnancy, she tookmy childbirth ed class, and when
her second was born, she was somuch more prepared and she
texted me at six months saying.
I finally understand what itmeans, to enjoy this
(07:57):
breastfeeding experience.
And she just feels so much moreconnected to her baby and she
was sad to think about weaningand that's the kind of
transformation that I hope andpray for you, that you would
enjoy this breastfeeding.
Experience this journey thatyes, it is certainly challenging
at times.
There were so many times,especially with Ellie's
(08:18):
breastfeeding journey, I justwanted to give up.
I was concerned about my supply,even though I really didn't have
any cause for that.
I just was like comparing myselfto other people and whatever,
and like things on Instagram,people pumping copious amounts
that I could never do somethinglike that.
It just really got in my head.
But that there is such a joy init.
But I think it comes withpreparing yourself to be
(08:41):
successful.
For most of us it does not comeso, so naturally where it just
happens without any effort.
Like there, there is effort toit, it's a skill that you're
learning.
So yeah.
So this brings up something I'mreally passionate about, which
is.
Preparation, just like youwouldn't run a marathon without
training, breastfeeding successreally starts with education
(09:03):
before your baby is even here.
So I see so many moms who thinkbreastfeeding will come
naturally because yes, it is anatural process.
You know, we might have thatnatural desire, but the
technique needs to be learned.
And there are key things thatevery expecting mom should
understand, and that's, youknow, how to achieve a proper
latch.
(09:23):
What that looks like, what thatfeels like.
different positions, different,you know, ways you can hold the
baby while nursing.
And then, you know, justunderstanding how supply and
demand works, understanding alittle bit more of the science
behind that because your bodytruly does know what to do.
It knows how to make the milk,but if you're not sure, you know
(09:45):
how to.
To nurse frequently enough andthings like that, your supply
will just not be able to keep upwith your babies demand and what
they need.
The other thing is good to knowabout things like growth spurts
and cluster feeding.
I cannot tell you how manyfrantic moms are texting me
saying my baby just wants to.
(10:05):
All the time.
I don't think I have enoughmilk.
And you know, it's reallysimple.
Sometimes babies just go throughthese stretches where all they
wanna do is nurse all day long.
And you're like, something iswrong with me, something's wrong
with my body, something's wrongwith my baby.
But this is a perfectly normalprocess.
And just having that word ofencouragement that like this is
normal, everything's okay.
(10:25):
It can change the game for youbecause knowledge is Power Mama.
And it gives you so muchconfidence to step into this
season and this journey.
Not in fear.
And then this is, some of thethings that I like to also teach
in my online childbirth edclass.
I just see the benefits of,knowing what to expect, what's
normal, how to troubleshootcommon issues so that you're
(10:49):
just more likely to have apositive experience.
And then having that informationin pregnancy allows you to
really absorb it and to askquestions.
And then, you're not overwhelmedwhen you're trying to learn this
with your newborn and you'resleep deprived and you're
already overwhelmed and you justare like, I can't take in any
more information right now.
(11:09):
So in my course, I like to coverunderstanding baby's hunger
cues, so when to tell whenthey're hungry, how to latch
your baby, knowing when to reachout for help.
Because here's the thing, I wantyou to feel confident and
prepared.
Not anxious and uncertain.
And so some resources that Ilove to share, there's a book,
it's called Breastfeeding MadeSimple.
(11:30):
I'll put that book in the shownotes.
But what I love about this bookis that it's evidence-based.
It's written by I-B-C-L-C.
Cs.
These are women who are likegold standard of lactation
consulting.
But they don't overwhelm youwith information.
Everything's given very clearly.
They break down just like thenatural laws of breastfeeding in
(11:50):
a way that's.
It makes sense.
It addresses those commonconcerns that I've been hinting
at.
And then the best part too is ifyou're not able to sit and
actually read the book, it comesin audio book format as well.
That was always a lifesaver forme'cause I'm like a big podcast
audio book listener.
And if I'm in the car, or evenwhenever I was nursing, I
(12:10):
remember I was nursing Ellie andlistening to breastfeeding books
as I was nursing her in themiddle of the night, both to
keep me up, but also to, to justlearn some tips and tricks.
'cause there's so much to learnabout breastfeeding.
But yeah, so you can multitaskand absorb that information.
And then beyond books I cannotstress enough the importance of
having lactation consultingsupport so most hospitals will
(12:35):
have a lactation consultantthere to help you while you're
in the hospital.
Sometimes their hours are alittle weird, so depending on
the time you deliver you may ormay not be able to see her, but
definitely seek out thatsupport.
But then you can also hire alactation consultant.
You know, once you're home, andI do have some recommendations
(12:57):
here locally, but definitelylook into lactation consultants
in your area.
Go on Facebook and like momgroups ask around for about
lactation consultants.
Look up with your insurancebecause it.
It most of the time they docover lactation consultants to a
degree talk with friends andfamily who they might have used.
And then there's anotherresource, LA Leche League.
(13:18):
This is a group that has beenaround for a really long time
and they even have likein-person support groups.
They also have online supportgroups.
And that's a great way to justalso be in community, literally
with other women that are in thesame stage of life as you.
And then, you know, this kind ofbrings me to wanting to
(13:38):
highlight the benefits of doulasupport for breastfeeding
success.
Obviously, I'm a doula, so I'm alittle partial to this, so many
people think that doulas arejust for birth, but.
We really go beyond thatsupporting you through those
first, six weeks or so.
So I remember I had one mom whoshe had a beautiful birth
experience, but when she got tothat first breastfeeding
(14:00):
session, the baby just did notwant to latch.
And instead of it being thatmagical moment, that golden hour
that she had imagined, she wasreally frustrated because the
baby was not latching, baby wasgetting more frustrated, but
then having someone there.
To just, you know, give sometips and tricks or just say,
Hey, this is okay, this isnormal.
(14:21):
Or even, let's just give it abreak.
Let's just do some skin to skin.
Let's all just have a breatherand kind of calm down.
That makes all the differencewhen you're going through that
experience.
And so as a doula and doulaswe're, we are there to help in
that immediate postpartum timewith positioning.
Watching out for signs of a goodlatch or a not so good latch and
(14:43):
just giving you some like tipsand tricks and just helping you
troubleshoot so that things cango as smoothly as possible.
You know, we can also help younotice when there are potential
issues earlier on so that theydon't become these huge, massive
problems that are much harder toovercome later.
And then beyond, like thattechnical support, there's so
(15:05):
much value in just havingsomebody who's in your corner,
who believes in you, whobelieves in your body's ability
to do this whole thing.
And then in those moments whenyou're just tired and doubting
yourself, it can mean the worldto just have someone say, you're
doing great.
I know this is hard work.
Let's maybe make this smalladjustment and that
encouragement can just changeeverything for you.
(15:27):
Research also consistently showsthat moms who have doula support
have higher rates ofbreastfeeding success, and they
tend to breastfeed for longer.
So when we, doulas help connectyou with lactation consulting
that's gonna be like theultimate wraparound support.
You know, of course, doulas aregonna be there for the typical
(15:48):
issues and struggles andchallenges, but if you start to
notice you're having a lot morechallenges there's just some
other things at play with youor, and or baby.
Having that lactation consultantbrought into the fold can just
go such a long way.
If your goal is to breastfeedyour baby for, you know, as long
as you can.
Support is everything.
(16:09):
And you know, I say it all thetime.
We were not meant to do thisalone.
And breastfeeding is certainlyno exception.
I think it really does take avillage for women to breastfeed
confidently and meet theirbreastfeeding goals.
I remember again with Ellie, myfirst.
There were a couple times whereI almost completely gave up
because I, my confidence was sodeflated.
(16:31):
There was not anythingphysically.
Indicating that Ellie was likenot thriving with the breast
milk or anything, but I had justgotten into my head too much
about doubting myself and my momand my sisters, who all
breastfed their babies were suchan encouragement to me and just
kept me going and I'm so glad Ididn't listen to the fear that I
(16:52):
was experiencing in my heart andmy mind, and I really leaned on
their wisdom and theirencouragement.
To really bring me through theother side.
So that was such a blessing tome, and I hope you also have
those people in your corner,whether that's a doula, whether
that's a lactation consultant, afriend, your mom your sisters,
whoever.
It's really important to havethat support system in place.
(17:16):
And so as we wrap up today'sepisode, I would love to leave
you with a little bit moreencouragement.
Just understand learning theskill of breastfeeding is a
learning curve.
And just like learning any newskill, it will take time for you
and your baby to figure thisout.
And there's no such thing asbreastfeeding failure.
There's just different journeys.
(17:37):
So fight against that feelingand that need to want to compare
yourself.
Your breastfeeding journey upagainst someone else's.
And again, do not struggle insilence If you're having
challenges, the worst thing youcan do is just try to brush it
under the rug and hope it'sgonna go away.
Seek help as soon as you'renoticing issues because time is
(17:57):
of the essence.
Like the sooner you can get thatsupport.
The less issue you're gonnahave, and the less intense it
will be as you let things, youknow, just get outta control.
For example, if your latch whenbaby latches, it's really
uncomfortable, it's likelybecause they had a latch or two
that was really uncomfortableand they damage the nipples.
(18:19):
Okay.
But there are some, so manypractical things we can do to
help heal that nipple so thatevery time you nurse, you're not
just like.
It's curling your toes and it'sso painful.
So just learning those littletips and tricks can go such a
long way.
And then also you get to enjoyit so much more.
And then also just make surethat you're doing that
preparation ahead of time.
(18:41):
Breastfeeding made simple.
Please check out that book oraudio, book it, it's so
important to just lay thatfoundation educationally.
And then I also would encourageyou to look into taking my
online childbirth ed class,which includes, you know,
covering the basics ofbreastfeeding.
And then if you're looking forpersonalized support I would
(19:02):
also love for you to reach outto me for virtual birth support
and just see how I can possiblyserve you and your family.
So now I want to leave you withthis beautiful reminder from
scripture, and this comes fromIsaiah 49 15 and it says, can a
mother forget the baby at herbreast and have no compassion on
the child she is born.
(19:24):
Though she may forget, I willnot forget you.
And I love this verse because itcaptures the profound bond that
happens between a nursing mamaand her baby.
And that connection is so deepand so instinctive that God uses
it to describe.
His unfailing love for us.
My pastor recently shared howthis beautiful word picture for
(19:48):
the Hebrew word"hesed", and it'soften translated as steadfast
love, and it's been understoodto carry this like imagery of.
A mom who when she hears herbaby cry, her milk lets down and
it starts to flow.
And you know, just as a mom'sbody responds immediately and
(20:09):
instinctively to her child'sneeds.
God's steadfast love responds tous with that same immediacy and
faithfulness, and that is justso beautiful to me.
Like that the Lord really hasjust designed this process to
just show another facet of hislove and his faithfulness for us
(20:32):
as his children.
So now I'd love to just close usout in prayer and, just, yeah.
Leave you with this finalencouragement.
Dear Jesus, we just thank youfor the incredible design that
you have created for motherhoodand the gift of being able to
breastfeed and nourish ourbabies with our own bodies.
(20:56):
I just pray for the mama who'slistening right now, whether
she's pregnant and preparing forthis, or she is in the midst of
her breastfeeding journey.
I pray that you would just giveher confidence in your design
and just patience for herself asshe's learning this process.
And then, Lord, just give herthe wisdom to seek out when she
might need help.
(21:17):
I pray, Lord, that you wouldjust surround her with
supportive, encouraging peoplethat can just uplift her and
help her to see that thisbreastfeeding journey is a hard
one battle, but it is not aburden.
And it is not something that sheneeds to be perfect at.
But Lord, just help her to seethat it's an expression of your
love working through her andthat when those challenges do
(21:39):
come, because they will remindher that she's.
Fearfully and wonderfully madeand that you have equipped her
for this calling.
I just pray, Lord, that youwould bless her and her baby and
that bond that they're creatingthrough breastfeeding, and I
just pray that those feedingmoments that they get are just
times of connection and peaceand joy and Lord, that you would
(22:00):
just, ultimately, let her knowhow deeply you love and care for
her as she's seeing it throughher eyes as a mother towards her
child.
We just love you, Jesus.
And we thank you so much forjust the way you love us.
It's in your name I pray.
Amen.
So thank you so much for joiningme today on this episode.
(22:21):
And just to remind you again,however you choose to feed your
baby, whether that'sbreastfeeding, formula feeding,
or you know, a combination ofboth.
What matters most is that youare providing your baby with
love and nourishment and caringfor them.
And there is so much grace inthis feeding journey and I just.
Pray that whatever path youchoose, whatever the Lord has
(22:42):
for you in this journey, thatyou would have confidence and
peace with those decisions.
And please, share this episodewith some other mamas that you
think this would be anencouragement to, whether
they're preparing or maybe inthe midst of it just share this
with them as well.
And you can also find me onInstagram at Faith Over Fear
Birth Doula, and on my website,faith Over Fear birth.com.
(23:06):
And I just love connecting withyou.
All and just hearing your, justwords of encouragement and just
so excited to just champion youas you are going through this
season.
But until next time, mama,remember that you're loved, you
are equipped, and that you'redoing such an amazing job.
I will talk with you soon.
Bye-bye for now.
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