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 motherhoodWhy 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 failureSimple, 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 strugglesWhy 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" 

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 beginsLactogenesis 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 amountsColostrum 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 flagCluster 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  Download the FREE 5 Breastfeeding Mistakes to Avoid Guide 

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    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: littlebearlactation.com/library (use code PODCAST50for a discount) Work with Taylor: 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: littlebearlactation.com/library (use code PODCAST50for a discount) 👉 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: littlebearlactation.com/library (use code PODCAST50for a discount) 👉 Book a 20-minute Q&A session with Jaimie for personalized support

Breastfeeding Challenges: Comfort Nursing and Persistent Thrush In this episode of the Breastfeeding With Confidence podcast, host Jaimie Zaki, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and mom of five, answers two common community questions: “What should I do if my baby uses me as a pacifier?” and “My baby has white patches on her tongue, the doctor says it’s thrush, but it won’t go away — what now?” Jaimie breaks down the difference between nutritive and non-nutritive sucking, when and how pacifiers can be helpful, and how to know when “comfort nursing” is actually a red flag for oral dysfunction. She also clears up confusion between “milk tongue” and true thrush, shares what persistent thrush really means, and explores the role of gut health in recovery. With practical tips, mindset shifts, and encouragement, this episode helps you feel less alone while navigating frustrating breastfeeding struggles.   BREASTFEEDING RESOURCES  👉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) 👉 Book a 20-minute Q&A session with Jaimie for personalized support     Timestamps:00:00 Introduction & Podcast Welcome01:06 November Updates & Breastfeeding Community01:50 Comfort Nursing vs. Pacifier Use06:09 Baby Thrush Concerns Explained06:37 Breastfeeding Resource Library07:18 Thrush vs. Milk Tongue: Getting a Proper Diagnosis11:20 Final Thoughts & Support Options12:06 Conclusion & Call to Action

Do you think postpartum is just one year of hell you have to push through? Think again! Dr. Jenna, a naturopath who specializes in women's health, discusses how our postpartum healing experience can impact our entire life, including menopause. Want to make sure you're caring for your body well during postpartum?  Let's chat with Dr. Jenna & learn how you can thrive during the fourth trimester & beyond!    RESOURCES:  Learn with Dr. Jenna's blog CLICK HERE FREE Breastfeeding Mistakes Guide - DOWNLOAD NOW Book a Consult - CLICK HERE      

Caffeine and Breastfeeding: Can You Still Enjoy Your Coffee? In this episode of The Breastfeeding With Confidence Podcast, host Jamie Doula, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and mom of five, answers one of the most common questions new moms have: “Can I drink coffee while breastfeeding?” Jamie explains how caffeine passes into breast milk, how much is considered safe, and signs that your baby might be sensitive. You’ll also learn practical tips like timing your coffee after a feeding and watching out for hidden caffeine sources in sodas, teas, chocolate, energy drinks, and even medications. If you’ve been stressing over whether that morning coffee is off limits, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence you need. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How much caffeine is safe while breastfeeding Why some babies may be more sensitive to caffeine Practical strategies for timing your coffee Surprising hidden sources of caffeine beyond coffee and tea The reassuring truth about enjoying coffee as a breastfeeding mom BREASTFEEDING RESOURCES  👉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) 👉 Book a 20-minute Q&A session with Jaimie for personalized support   0R4s6myh30iWgFjBphBG

Is My Breast Milk Fatty Enough for My Baby? Busting a Common Breastfeeding Myth In this episode of Breastfeeding With Confidence, Jaimie Zaki, IBCLC and mom of five, tackles one of the most frustrating myths new mothers hear: that their breast milk “isn’t fatty enough” or “needs time to mature” before it can help their baby gain weight. Here’s the truth—your milk is already perfectly designed for your baby from the very beginning. If your little one isn’t gaining weight, the issue isn’t milk quality—it’s usually about milk volume or transfer. And in rare cases, consistent weight gain struggles despite adequate intake can point to deeper medical issues that need attention. Jaimie shares: Why breast milk is always nutrient-rich and fatty enough The real reasons babies may not gain weight Why supplementing with formula isn’t always the answer How to advocate for yourself when doctors give misleading advice If you’ve ever worried your milk “isn’t good enough,” this episode will give you clarity, confidence, and the tools to protect your breastfeeding journey.   BREASTFEEDING RESOURCES  👉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) 👉 Book a 20-minute Q&A session with Jaimie for personalized support  

Are you struggling to sleep because your newborn only wants to sleep on your chest? Do you keep finding yourself falling asleep with your baby, feeling guilty and frustrated?   In this episode, we’re breaking the taboo around co-sleeping, bed-sharing, and safe infant sleep—without the guilt, shame, or fear that mainstream advice so often stirs up. Join Jaimie Zaki, IBCLC and mom of five, and her guest Taylor McKay, a holistic sleep coach based in Canada, as they unpack what real-life sleep looks like for new mothers—and how to make it safe, biologically normal, and confidence-building. You’ll learn how to protect your peace, your milk supply, and your baby’s safety—without resorting to sleep-training or fighting your natural instincts. 🔎 In this episode, we cover: Safe co-sleeping and bed-sharing practices backed by evidence and maternal intuition How to create a safe sleep space for your newborn—whether you use a crib, bassinet, or share your bed What to do when exhaustion hits hard postpartum and “just don’t sleep with your baby” stops being realistic Common myths about co-sleeping safety that every mom deserves to hear the truth about Reducing risk of SIDS and infant suffocation deaths  Practical tips for safely bed-sharing while breastfeeding so everyone actually gets rest Why listening to your intuition matters more than rigid sleep rules Balancing family dynamics when your partner or relatives don’t understand co-sleeping How confident, informed mothers sleep better—and so do their babies   RESOURCES:   PREGNANT MOMS: FREE Breastfeeding Plan Workshop (Click here to access) Confident Mama Breastfeeding Academy (Use code PODCAST50)  Get 1:1 Breastfeeding Support (Click Here) Need sleep support? Visit Taylor McKay on Instagram @Cozylittlesleepers    Episode timestamps: 00:00 — Welcome to Breastfeeding with Confidence00:43 — Meet Taylor + why “safe co-sleeping” matters01:46 — The reality of postpartum sleep and survival05:12 — What safe bed-sharing actually looks like08:12 — Debunking myths and navigating fear-based advice13:52 — Real-life mom experiences and intuition-led sleep34:10 — Final thoughts + your next step toward peaceful rest

Should I Nurse on Both Sides Every Feed? In this episode of the Breastfeeding With Confidence Podcast, host Jaimie Zaki, IBCLC and mom of five, dives into one of the most common breastfeeding questions: Do I need to nurse on both sides every time my baby feeds? Many new moms worry about whether their baby is getting enough milk, how long to nurse on each side, and if skipping a breast could affect milk supply. Jaimie explains how breast milk works, what foremilk and hindmilk really mean, and why there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. You’ll learn: ✅ The difference between feeding from one side vs. both sides ✅ How to recognize when your baby is satisfied after one breast ✅ When offering both sides is helpful for milk supply and baby’s intake ✅ What “block feeding” means and when it’s used ✅ Red flags to watch for if your baby always prefers just one breast Breastfeeding is about finding the rhythm that works for you and your baby, not following strict rules. By understanding how milk production works, you can confidently decide what’s best for each feed. If you’ve ever asked yourself “Should I nurse on both sides every feed?”—this episode gives you the clear, evidence-based answers you need.   BREASTFEEDING RESOURCES  Breastfeeding Resource Library  Private Breastfeeding Support 

In this  sp0ecial episode of the Breastfeeding With Confidence podcast, Jaimie Zaki, IBCLC and mom of five, shares a real postpartum story about a new mom who struggled with her first latch, pain, and anxiety in the early days. Learn how pregnant moms can prevent these common breastfeeding challenges before they happen. Jaimie invites expecting mothers to join the Breastfeeding Prep Masterclass on Monday, October 13th—a free, live workshop designed to help you feel confident, informed, and ready for the first latch. Workshop Link: littlebearlactation.com/workshop

Can I Breastfeed if I’m Sick or Taking Medication? Wondering if it’s safe to breastfeed while sick or while taking medications? Many new moms get conflicting advice, but most of the time, you can safely continue nursing with the right precautions and resources. In this episode of The Breastfeeding With Confidence Podcast, Jaimie, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and mom of five, explains how to navigate common illnesses, medications, and supporting milk supply while keeping your baby safe. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Jaimie covers: Breastfeeding while sick: how your milk protects your baby and what precautions to take Supporting milk supply when ill: staying hydrated, managing stress, and continuing frequent feeds Breastfeeding while taking medications: understanding risks, dosages, and monitoring your baby Common over-the-counter meds like Sudafed and Benadryl—how to use them safely while nursing Caution with bed-sharing if taking sedating medications Age of baby considerations: newborns vs older infants Using trusted evidence-based resources like InfantRisk Center and LactMed Empowering yourself to do due diligence and avoid unnecessary weaning Encouragement Mama, if you’re sick or taking medication, don’t panic. Most situations are compatible with breastfeeding. Informed decision-making, hydration, and monitoring your baby will help you continue safely nourishing your little one. Resources for Breastfeeding Success For more guidance on navigating illness, medications, and milk supply, check out Jaimie’s Breastfeeding Resource Library. It’s packed with evidence-based tools, guides, and strategies to help you feel confident in every stage of breastfeeding.   FREEBIE: 5 Breastfeeding Mistakes to Avoid https://littlebearlactation.myflodesk.com/breastfeedingpodcast   Breastfeeding Resource Library (PODCAST50 to save now!) https://littlebearlactation.com/library   Get Breastfeeding Help https://littlebearlactation.com/support   Episode Timeline 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction 00:45 – Breastfeeding While Sick 02:00 – Supporting Milk Supply When Sick 03:30 – Breastfeeding While on Medication 04:30 – Sudafed, Benadryl, and Other Common OTCs 05:30 – Age of Baby Considerations 06:00 – Common Pitfalls & Empowering Yourself 06:45 – Practical Tips for Safety & Milk Supply 07:45 – Encouragement & Final Thoughts 08:30 – CTA to Breastfeeding Resource Library Topics Covered Include:  Breastfeeding while sick Safe medications breastfeeding Sudafed and breastfeeding Benadryl breastfeeding Supporting milk supply when sick InfantRisk breastfeeding LactMed database Milk supply while ill

Jaimie Zaki, IBCLC and mom of five, shares a real postpartum story about a new mom who struggled with her first latch, pain, and anxiety in the early days. Learn how pregnant moms can prevent these common breastfeeding challengesbefore they happen. Jaimie invites expecting mothers to join the Breastfeeding Prep Masterclass on Monday, October 13th—a free, live workshop designed to help you feel confident, informed, and ready for the first latch. Workshop Link: littlebearlactation.com/workshop

When Will My Milk Come In? Understanding Colostrum, Milk Supply, and Delays If you’re a new mom wondering “when will my milk come in?”, you’re not alone. Many moms worry that their milk isn’t coming fast enough, but the truth is your colostrum is already your first milk—and your milk supply naturally increases in volume over the first few days. In this episode of The Breastfeeding With Confidence Podcast, Jaimie, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and mom of five, explains what’s normal, what can delay milk supply, and practical ways to support your breastfeeding journey. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Jaimie covers: Colostrum is your first milk and why it’s perfectly designed for your newborn Reframing the question from “coming in” to milk increasing in volume The typical timeline: milk volume often increases around day 3–5 postpartum Factors that can delay milk volume, including birth interventions, separation from baby, and stress How early supplementation or formula can delay your body’s milk production Tips to support your supply naturally, including frequent nursing, skin-to-skin, and pumping if separated Understanding Colostrum and Milk Volume Your first milk, colostrum, is packed with antibodies and nutrients for your baby’s tiny tummy. Instead of waiting for “milk to come in,” it’s more accurate to think of your supply gradually increasing in volume over the first few days. Normal Timeline vs Delays Most moms notice milk volume increases around day 3–5, but it can take longer if: Birth involved interventions (IV fluids, C-section, medication) There’s separation from your baby after birth Early formula supplementation occurs instead of frequent breastfeeding Maternal factors like stress or certain medical conditions are present Supporting Your Milk Supply To encourage milk production and reduce delays: Practice frequent skin-to-skin contact Nurse on demand, especially in the first 48 hours Pump or hand express if you’re separated from your baby Avoid unnecessary early supplementation unless medically advised Seek help early if you notice low supply or latching challenges Encouragement for Moms Your body is already making milk—starting with colostrum—and your supply will increase naturally. If it feels slower than expected, it doesn’t mean you’ve failed. Small adjustments and support can make a big difference. Resources for Breastfeeding Success For moms who want step-by-step guidance on understanding milk supply, preventing delays, and feeling confident from day one, check out Jaimie’s Breastfeeding Resource Library. It’s packed with tools, guides, and expert strategies to help you start breastfeeding successfully. 🌟BREASTFEEDING RESOURCES 🌟   FREEBIE: 5 Breastfeeding Mistakes to Avoid https://littlebearlactation.myflodesk.com/breastfeedingpodcast   Breastfeeding Resource Library (PODCAST50 to save now!) https://littlebearlactation.com/library   Get Breastfeeding Help https://littlebearlactation.com/support   Episode Timeline 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction 00:45 – Colostrum is Your First Milk 02:00 – Reframing “Coming In” vs Increasing in Volume 03:30 – Normal Timeline for Milk Supply (3–5 Days) 05:00 – Factors That Can Delay Milk Volume 06:30 – Early Supplementation & Its Impact 07:30 – Tips to Support Your Milk Supply 08:30 – Encouragement & Final Thoughts 09:00 – CTA to Resource Library Topics Covered When does milk come in after birth Colostrum vs mature milk Delayed milk supply How to increase milk supply early Milk coming in timeline Breastfeeding tips first week

Are you pregnant and planning to exclusively breastfeed? Hospitals often have routines that can unintentionally push formula on new parents, even when it isn’t necessary. In this short promo episode, Jaimie Zaki, IBCLC and mom of five, shares a real story about a mom who walked into the hospital fully prepared to breastfeed—and left feeling pressured to supplement with formula. Learn why this happens, how to advocate for your baby, and why preparation is key to protecting your milk supply. 🎯 Free Workshop – October 13th, Monday: The Breastfeeding Prep Masterclass is specifically designed for pregnant moms avoid unnecessary formula, protect your milk supply, and confidently advocate for your baby in the hospital. Reserve your spot now → littlebearlactation.com/workshop