Ashley Georgakopoulos, IBCLC

Regularly replacing your breast pump accessories is a vital practice for ensuring the efficiency and hygiene of your breastfeeding equipment. However, it's equally important to consider what to do with the parts you've replaced. Surprisingly, several of these components can be repurposed and given a second life through the process of recycling, and you can conveniently include them in your standard household recycling bins.

Although a history of breast cancer or the potential for cancer recurrence doesn't inherently compromise the integrity of breastfeeding, various risk factors and potential challenges may arise based on individual circumstances. The extent of these challenges primarily hinges on the specific care plan and cancer treatment, including hormone therapies, medications, and any structural alterations to the breast resulting from radiation, surgical procedures, or the presence of scar tissue. In cases where cancer affects only one breast, breastfeeding from the unaffected breast generally presents fewer obstacles, but it's essential to recognize that each situation is unique. Let's delve into these differences and factors for consideration.

EveryBODY is indeed different, and this truth extends to the world of breastfeeding and pumping. While pumps can be incredibly useful tools for nursing mothers, it's essential to recognize that not all bodies will respond the same way to them. Some mothers may find their milk flows easily with one pump but struggle with another. This natural variation can sometimes lead to frustration, but it's important to remember that your body's response to a breast pump is a unique and individual experience. In this article, we'll explore why different bodies react differently to pumps, offer tips for those who aren't getting the results they expect right away, and provide encouragement and support for mothers on this journey. 

If you currently are breastfeeding exclusively, transitioning to bottle feeding part-time can seem intimidating or worrisome for use at daycare. From seamless transitions to maintaining your pumping routine, we will help guide you on how much milk you need. Here are our top tips for balancing breastfeeding and daycare.

Breastfeeding looks different for a baby in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). If feeding well, the main obstacle is separation from the mother, as there is no 24-hour access point. These specialized units offer advanced medical care and support to premature or critically ill newborns. However, they also present unique challenges, particularly in relation to breastfeeding. The journey of breastfeeding in the NICU is a testament to a mother's unwavering determination-- a delicate balance between medical necessity and the invaluable benefits of nurturing through breast milk. 

POV: You have a sleepy, hungry, tiny human who is only minutes old. Now what? Feeding trends are no different, from milk consistency to time at the breast, the first two weeks of a newborn’s life are deemed the most challenging, as the mother and co are on learning curves trying to keep up with hunger cues and satiety affirmation. In this blog we will cover newborn feeding milestones, hunger and fullness cues, and concerns of over- and under-feeding. 

With all the encouragement to breastfeed for its nutritional, health, and bonding benefits for both mother and baby, the next question may be, “Ok, but for how long?” This commitment can be daunting, especially with obstacles and no end in sight when it feels all-consuming. We have the “shoulds” and the evidence-based research to back things up, but let's also discuss the nuances, the plan to get to the goal, and the tools to incorporate into your lifestyle to help get you there.

If you need to incorporate pumping into your routine or have decided to pump full-time, how often do you need to pump and make it work for you? We can look at different pumping needs and variables, from the baby’s age and exclusivity, to additional goals you may have, such as supply building and milk storage! Plus you can download a FREE pumping schedule to help you stay on track!

A well-rounded diet rich in nutrition is a priority when breastfeeding. While many assume its for their milk supply, milk production, and milk composition, evidence suggests that nutrition has more to do with the health status of the lactating mother in many ways, and providing a bioavailable source to the baby, meaning in a way that is easier for the baby to absorb. But how can we achieve a “well-rounded” diet? Looking at our lifestyles, long-term goals, and accessibility to resources, supplements, and healthy food is crucial. Once we know our desires and goals, we can assess possible or known obstacles, and form a plan to combat those. 

Skincare products and routines are hot topics, as many people are taking advantage of information being provided right at their fingertips. You can look to dermatologists online, with Reels and TikToks, to break it all down for when and how to use ingredients for various issues or preventative skin care. When it comes to pregnancy and breastfeeding, however, extra precautions are needed.