The Boob Group: Judgment-Free Breastfeeding Support

Do you feel pressure to breastfeed your baby? Sometime we do this to ourselves because we were either raised in an environment supportive of breastfeeding or perhaps it wasn’t supportive of breastfeeding- and we want to change that. And sometimes the pressure comes from other sources. Regardless, it can result in a lot of guilt when things don’t work out the way you had planned. So, what do you do with all this guilt? How do you process it? And how do you overcome it? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There’s no denying the special bond felt between moms and baby while breastfeeding. So, it’s only natural moms would want to preserve that moment for as long as possible. Perhaps that’s why breastfeeding photos are becoming more and more popular. Should you take some selfies, or should you hire a professional photographer? How do you get the best photos? And then what do you do with the photos? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Imagine being able to breastfeed without birthing your baby. It's possible! Hope Lien successfully induced lactation so she could breastfeed her adopted daughter immediately after she was born. Learn more about how Hope prepared her body to make milk for her child. You'll also hear the amazing story of how Hope and the birth mother worked together in the hospital to provide the very best nutrition for baby Estelle. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you breastfeeding and planning to pump when you return to work? Or perhaps you plan to pump to help protect your milk supply? There are many different ways pumping can help you with your breastfeeding goals. Today we'll learn more about the various type of pumps available and how you can utilize them to provide your baby with breast milk for as long as possible. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Here in the United States, we have laws that help protect breastfeeding and pumping moms, such as the right to nurse your baby in public. But many of these laws are determined by the individual states. So, what exactly are your rights? How do you learn about these laws? And why do we need even laws that determine how and when we can feed our babies? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Breastfeeding is a commitment that can be challenging at times. And sometimes the smallest gesture of kindness or complementary words can help build up a breastfeeding mom’s confidence and keep her nursing for as long as possible. What can you do to support the breastfeeding mom in your life? We have some great ideas for partners, family, and friends. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Breastfeeding isn't always simple. And that’s when we turn to the professionals: lactation educators, counselors, and consultants who can help overcome issues that come our way. So, what are some of the most common questions we ask these professionals? And what are the answers to those questions? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most states in the U.S. have laws that protect breastfeeding mothers, allowing them to nurse their babies in public. But that doesn’t mean the laws are always upheld and the result can be devastating to a mom who simply needs to feed her baby. Organizing a nurse-in is one way to raise awareness about these discrepancies and to encourage change. So, what exactly happens during a nurse-in? How are they organized? And do they really make a difference? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're about to have a baby, you may have a lot of questions about breastfeeding your newborn, especially within the first couple of months. What are a baby's typical sleep patterns during this time? How much weight should they be gaining? What should you know about introducing a bottle for the first time? Plus, tips for surviving the witching hour and other fussy times. Today, we're continuing our series focused on brand new moms as they begin their breastfeeding journeys. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We know breast milk provides amazing nutrition and antibodies for our babies. But, did you know breast milk can be applied topically as well? That's right, it can even be used as a medicine to treat sores, cuts, infections and more! Today we're learning about the properties of our breast milk that make it so unique, as well as the many ways you can use it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many breastfeeding moms are going back to work and sending their babies to daycare. So, how much breast milk should you send? And what happens if your baby doesn't use all of that milk? Should you talk to your daycare about handling breast milk? And how can you protect your milk supply while you're away from your baby? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Breast milk alone may not provide all the vitamins a growing baby needs. Sometimes pediatricians will recommend additional Vitamin D and iron. Why are these vitamins being recommended and what kind of effect does it have on mother and baby? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We know breast milk is best for our babies, but how exactly does it help and protect their immune systems? What immune disorders are specifically impacted by our infant's nutrition? And what makes breast milk so powerful that some cultures consider it "white blood"? Today we're learning why mother's milk is widely known as the perfect food for your baby. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

All breastfeeding and pumping moms need support. And many times, you can find mom-to-mom support through social media groups and forums where help is available 24/7. But what do you need to know before joining these groups? What can you expect to gain from being part of them? And what are the basic dos and don’ts when it comes to advising other moms? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Acupuncture and chiropractic are two ways in which a breastfeeding mom can support her own health and encourage her milk supply. What's involved in each of these procedures? How quickly can it impact the milk supply? And how can treatment improve other postpartum symptoms? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As new mothers, we can be a little too obsessed about fitting back into our pre-pregnancy clothes. As it turns out, having a little extra fat on your body may be its way of protecting both you and your baby. So, what exactly is your body mass index, or BMI? And what impact does overall nutrition and exercise have on your breast milk? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're about to have a baby, you may have a lot of questions about breastfeeding your newborn, especially within the first week. How often should your baby be eating and how much? When does colostrum typically evolve into mature milk? And how much weight loss is normal for your baby? What can you expect when it comes to sore nipples and engorgement? Today, we're continuing our series focused on brand new moms as they begin their breastfeeding journeys. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're concerned about milk supply, you may be considering food and herbal supplements called "galactagogues" to boost milk production. So, how exactly does it work? What are some of the most popular supplements and which ones should you avoid? Plus, how can you tell if you really do have a low milk supply? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's the final episode in our series, Breastfeeding Expectations, where we follow three breastfeeding moms through the children's first year of life. At 12 months, our moms reflect back on their one-year journey. What was their biggest challenge? What do they love most about breastfeeding? And would they do anything differently, if given the chance? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Consistent nipple pain may be the result of a common yeast infection known as thrush. How is thrush normally treated? When should you seek professional help? And how do you know it's not thrush and must be some other type of infection? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sexual abuse can greatly impact your breastfeeding relationship between you and your baby. What are the main signs of trauma? How can you overcome those emotions and create a positive experience? In this episode, you'll meet sexual abuse survivors and hear what worked best for them. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You may be breastfeeding your baby. You may be pumping breast milk for your baby on a regular basis. Or perhaps you’re doing both. But what happens if you need to express your breast milk and there’s no pump in sight? Maybe your pump breaks unexpectedly or perhaps you need an alternative if you don’t have a power source? These are just some of the benefits of hand expression and manual breast pumps. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're about to have a baby, you may have a lot of questions about breastfeeding your newborn, especially within the first couple of weeks. What does nursing look like during a baby's second week of life? What can you expect when your mature milk comes in? How often should your baby feed? Plus, what to do during those crazy growth spurts! Today, we're continuing our series focused on brand new moms as they begin their breastfeeding journeys. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We continue our series, Breastfeeding Expectations, where we follow three breastfeeding moms through the children's first year of life. At eleven months, what do they like most as a breastfeeding mom? What tips do they have for traveling with their babies? Plus, pumping at work and the process of partially weaning their babies to incorporate solid foods. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Returning to work can be a bit of a challenge for breastfeeding and pumping moms. There are so many things to consider, both mentally and physically. So, how can employers help ease this process for mothers returning from maternity leave? What are some of the challenges businesses face? And how can employees advocate for themselves? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gassy, fussy, grumpy babies! What can a breastfeeding mom do to help relieve this discomfort and make her baby feel more comfortable? What does typical gas and fussiness look like in a newborn baby? How are GERD and reflux diagnosed and how are these issues resolved? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We continue our series, Breastfeeding Expectations, where we follow three breastfeeding moms through the children's first year of life. At ten months, what's their favorite part about breastfeeding? What solids are their babies eating now? Are they supplementing with iron? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The mechanics of breastfeeding multiples may seem overwhelming, but there are definitely some tricks to the trade. Is tandem nursing really possible? What equipment do mothers of multiples find helpful? Learn how to deal with the challenges of nursing more than one baby at a time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A partner's support is crucial to a breastfeeding moms' sense of success. But partners who aren't lactating may find it difficult to understand their supporting role and know how to better assist their breastfeeding partner with the process. What can partners do prenatally and postpartum to increase the odds of meeting their breastfeeding goals? Today you'll learn all about a national campaign with the mission of de-stigmatizing public breastfeeding by educating men and empowering women. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you need to be away from your baby, most breastfeeding moms think of pumping or perhaps using donor milk. But what about having another mother breastfeed your baby? It’s called wet nursing or cross nursing and it’s been around a lot longer than breast pumps- that’s for sure. What’s the history of wet nursing in the United States? And how are moms using it today? Real moms share their real experiences. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If your breastfeeding baby seems to have his nights and days mixed up, then you may be experiencing reverse cycling. So, what do you do when your child isn't really interested in feeding during the day but wants to breastfeed all night long? When does it typically happen and how long will it last? And what can you do in the meantime to get more of that much-needed rest? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We continue our series, Breastfeeding Expectations, where we follow three breastfeeding moms through the children's first year of life. At nine months, what does their breastfeeding relationship look like? What is reverse cycling and how is it impacting one of our panelists? Plus, the challenge of keeping up your milk supply and maintaining a full-time job. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We all know that breastfeeding is natural and normal. It's also something that everyone seems to have an opinion about. Whether it's coming from your mother or a complete stranger, breastfeeding criticism can be tough to endure. Why do they think it's ok to voice their opinion? How do you handle a potentially awkward situation? And can you prevent that situation from happening in the first place? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Symptoms such as nipple pain, slow weight gain, and a fussy baby may be signs that your child has a lip or a tongue tie. How can you tell if there's really an issue? What are your treatment options? And what does this mean for your breastfeeding relationship? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Finding time to feed yourself nutritious foods can be a struggle when you're a new mom. So, what exactly does your body need during this time to maintain and even enhance your milk supply? What specific foods are typically recommended for breastfeeding moms? Plus, we reveal our favorite go-to items for breakfast, lunch and dinner! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It if seems like your baby always wants to breastfeed, then your baby may be cluster feeding. Why do babies cluster feed? Could it be a sign of a growth spurt? What should you do if your baby is nursing non-stop? And how can cluster feedings impact milk supply? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We continue our series, Breastfeeding Expectations, where we follow three breastfeeding moms through the children's first year of life. At eight months, how do you deal with a distracted baby? Does a constantly distracted baby mean the baby is weaning herself from the breast? Plus, the challenges of pumping in the workplace. Do you feel boobytrapped? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Breastfeeding support can truly make or break a mother’s breastfeeding experience. Yet, with so many local and online options, how’s a mother to choose which support will actually be beneficial? Today we're chatting with Sarah Ortega, a mother of four, a certified lactation educator, and the moderator of Nevada Breastfeeds, an online Facebook page that offers support to breastfeeding mothers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New moms typically struggle with the challenge of feeding their newborn babies while trying to get some decent sleep. What exactly does "normal" sleep look like for your baby? What type of night wakings can you expect during your baby's first year? Plus, what's the best nighttime routine and sleep arrangements for your family? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If your baby needs supplementation shortly after birth, you may be asking yourself a million different questions. Will you be able to make enough milk to eventually breastfeed? What are your options for supplementation during this time? Should you pump? And what's the best way to transition to the breast? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

More women develop postpartum depression each year than strokes, diabetes, and breast cancer. If you're a breastfeeding mom, what choices do you have when it comes to treatment? Are there non-medicinal options that can effectively treat the problem? What roles do Omega 3 fatty acids, exercise, and bright light therapy play? Our panelists share what worked for them! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Irritating and judgmental breastfeeding comments can really derail a mom, and even ruin her experience nursing her baby. How can you cope with these statements without having your self-esteem completely squashed? What's the best thing to say when you feel like you're being attacked? And is there any way to stop these comments before they even happen? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We continue our series following three breastfeeding moms through the children's first year of life. At seven months, what do you do when your baby starts biting, pinching or even hitting while at the breast? How much milk does your little one really need while you're away at work? Plus, reverse cycling and how to get your baby back on track. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For many mothers, breastfeeding is the best way to help soothe their little ones to sleep. How does this impact hot button topics such as bedsharing and sleep training? If you choose to share your bed or co-sleep, how can you do it safely? What can you expect with sleep training and how can it impact the breastfeeding relationship you have with your child? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hormone imbalances can definitely complicate a breastfeeding mother's milk supply. But how do you know if your thyroid is really to blame? When are most women diagnosed with a high or low thyroid? What type of tests help determine this condition? And what can a mother do to help manage these levels better? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We continue our series following three breastfeeding moms through the children's first year of life. At six months, do our moms consider themselves "breastfeeding ninjas". Are they still feeling confident about their milk supply? And what are their plans for introducing solids? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Having a baby can cause a strain on any relationship. Let's face it, parenting can be exhausting. Breastfeeding moms may feel additional stress and responsibility as the pain provider of nutrition for their babies. How can partners help relieve some of the burden and bond with their babies at the same time? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're continuing our year-long series where we follow three women on their breastfeeding journeys. How are our moms feeling now that the babies are five months old? Have they established routines to help them through the day? What's their experience been after returning to work? And have they been able to successfully manage all this while maintaining their milk supply and storage? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding breastfeeding. When it comes to breastfeeding your infant, should you really "rough up" your nipples to decrease sensitivity? Should breastfeeding ever be painful? Does a little formula or rice cereal really help your baby sleep better at night? And what should you do if your baby is insistent on using you as their personal pacifier? We're busting these myths and more in our new series featuring questions submitted from our listeners! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New moms usually have a certain expectation of what breastfeeding is going to be like. Sometimes it happens as planned, and sometimes not. Today we're continuing our year-long series where we follow three women on their breastfeeding journeys. How are they coping with their breastfeeding challenges, such as sudden changes in behavior? And what are they doing to help prepare themselves for going back to work? Plus, what would cause a sudden drop in supply? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices