The first 24-48 hours are hard. In this video, we provide a comprehensive overview for new moms. It's high-level, but it sticks to the pertinent details in case you're watching this from the hospital or short on time as a new parent. This guide is packed with essential information on the physiological changes occurring, what's normal and what's not, and effective comfort strategies. We delve deep into techniques for proper latching, positioning, and maintaining nipple health to ensure a pain-free breastfeeding experience. Additionally, we discuss the importance of regular feeding, how to stimulate and protect your milk supply, and what steps to take if you encounter persistent difficulties. Don't forget to seek lactation support early and visit our website for detailed resources.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:56 Understanding Early Lactation Physiology01:46 Managing Pain and Ensuring Comfort05:00 Optimal Positioning for Mom and Baby10:18 Feeding Frequency and Supply Management13:42 When to Seek Additional Help14:53 Conclusion and Additional ResourcesYou'll find some helpful resources below:Hand Expression Demonstration Video
Episode #13: How To Use A Manual Pump
Episode #15: How to Know Your Baby is Getting Enough – A Comprehensive Guide
Episode #16: Mastering the Latch – Tips for Pain-Free Nursing and Better Milk Supply
Episode #17: Breastfeeding in the First Week – Expectations, Challenges, and Tips
In this episode, Meaghan Selki, an international board certified lactation consultant, discusses the spectrum of plugged ducts and mastitis. Learn the differences between these conditions, what causes them, and how to treat and prevent them based on the latest research and guidelines from the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine. Meaghan covers the importance of addressing inflammation and milk stasis, tips for gentle and effective milk removal, and when to seek professional help. Stay informed to ensure the best care for both mom and baby. Don't miss the detailed show notes available at themilkproduction.com.00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:12 Understanding Plugged Ducts and Mastitis01:49 Inflammation and Treatment Updates02:30 Antibiotics and Overuse Concerns04:04 Weekend Care and Urgent Situations08:16 Plugged Ducts: Causes and Symptoms09:37 Effective Treatments and Techniques14:38 When Plugged Ducts Become Mastitis18:05 Prevention and Early Recovery Strategies20:52 Final Thoughts and Conclusion
Join Meaghan Selki, an international board-certified lactation consultant, as she discusses the topic of cluster feeding, an often-confusing and exhausting phase for new parents. In this episode, Meaghan explains what cluster feeding is, when and why it happens, and how to differentiate it from potential red flags that warrant professional help. She offers practical strategies for managing cluster feeding, shares common concerns about milk supply, and emphasizes the importance of self-care during this demanding period. By normalizing and understanding this natural part of breastfeeding, parents can better cope and ensure their baby's growth and well-being. Tune in for valuable insights, tips, and support to navigate through the first year of breastfeeding.
00:00 Introduction to Cluster Feeding
00:47 Defining Cluster Feeding
02:32 When Cluster Feeding Occurs
04:59 Why Cluster Feeding Feels So Hard
13:50 Coping Strategies for Cluster Feeding
15:48 When to Call for Help
21:55 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In this episode of the Milk Production Podcast, host Meaghan Selki addresses one of the most common questions in her clinic: what can new mothers eat or take to boost their milk supply? Meaghan outlines the golden rules of milk production, underscoring the importance of consistent milk removal every three hours. She dispels myths around foods and discusses how certain nutritive traditions can offer comfort rather than scientific benefits. The episode also explores how food components pass into breast milk and the effectiveness (or lack thereof) of popular supplements like fenugreek and moringa. Meaghan emphasizes that the most effective strategy for boosting supply is frequent, effective milk removal and invites listeners to seek professional support if issues persist. Tune in for evidence-based guidance on maintaining and boosting milk supply.
00:00 Introduction to the Milk Production Podcast
01:06 Golden Rules for Boosting Milk Supply
05:46 How Food Affects Breast Milk
10:52 Nutrition Basics for Lactation
21:00 Supplements and Galactagogues
27:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In this episode, we explore the importance of paced bottle feeding, a baby-led method that mimics breastfeeding rhythms, slows the flow, and helps babies stay in control of their intake. We discuss how conventional bottle feeding can lead to issues like overfeeding, decreased milk supply, and early weaning. We also provide a detailed demonstration of paced bottle feeding techniques, including proper positioning and inviting a baby to latch. Additionally, we address common concerns like nipple flow adjustment, dealing with caregiver resistance, and alternative feeding methods. Perfect for parents, caregivers, and anyone involved in a baby's feeding journey, this episode offers valuable insights on using bottles responsibly to support and protect breastfeeding.
00:00 Introduction to Paced Bottle Feeding
00:32 Definition and Importance of Paced Bottle Feeding
01:07 Demonstration of Paced Bottle Feeding
03:00 Benefits of Paced Bottle Feeding
04:58 How to Perform Paced Bottle Feeding
06:08 Alternative Feeding Methods
16:09 Troubleshooting Common Issues
24:24 When and Why to Use Bottles
28:03 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In this episode of the Milk Production Podcast, we get into the challenges and milestones of the first week of breastfeeding, focusing on what's normal and what isn't. We cover topics like the transition from sleepy newborns to frequent feeding, the role of colostrum, diaper expectations, and the importance of the 'Golden Hour.' Learn about the potential impact of circumcision on feeding, the significance of weight changes, and strategies for dealing with engorgement. We also discuss when to seek help from healthcare professionals if breastfeeding issues arise. Follow along for expert advice and support during those crucial early days.
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Update
00:21 The First Week of Breastfeeding: What's Normal?
01:21 Day One: Sleepy Newborns and Colostrum
06:19 Day Two: Frequent Feeding and Cluster Feeding
08:53 Days Three to Five: Milk Coming In and Engorgement
10:26 Weight Loss and Supplementation
15:01 Managing Engorgement and Breastfeeding Tips
19:53 Checkpoint: Day Five Milestones
20:31 Beyond the First Week: Weight Gain and Red Flags
22:03 Conclusion and Resources
In this week's episode of The Milk Production, we explore the importance of a good latch in breastfeeding, highlighting how it can make or break your journey. Learn about the differences between a shallow latch and a deep latch, and how each affects both comfort and milk transfer. The episode also provides practical tips for achieving a deep, effective latch and troubleshooting common issues such as nipple pain and shallow latches. We also touch on positioning techniques, the role of baby's oral anatomy, and how to know when to seek professional help. Whether you're a new mom or experienced, this episode offers invaluable insights into making breastfeeding a more comfortable and successful experience.
00:00 Introduction: The Importance of a Good Latch
00:20 Behind the Scenes: Creating the Course
01:38 Understanding Latch: Basics and Importance
02:48 Deep vs. Shallow Latch: Identifying the Difference
07:45 Why Latch Matters for Breastfeeding Success
11:53 Recognizing and Addressing Latch Issues
13:11 Techniques for Achieving a Good Latch
21:37 Dealing with Nipple Pain and Damage
37:12 When to Seek Help and Final Thoughts
In this episode of The Milk Production podcast, host Meaghan Selki digs into one of the most common concerns: determining if your baby is getting enough milk. She explains:
The episode emphasizes looking at the bigger picture of growth, diapers, feeding signs, and potentially weighted feeds, encouraging parents to reach out to lactation consultants when needed. Stay tuned for more updates on the Academy's new course and quick confidence-boosting soundbites on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
00:00 Welcome to the Milk Production Podcast
01:04 Understanding Baby's Growth and Weight Gain
05:53 The Importance of Diaper Counts
09:57 Effective Breastfeeding Techniques
14:02 Using Weighted Feeds for Monitoring
18:46 Balancing Data and Intuition
21:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Worried about low milk supply? You’re not alone. In this episode of The Milk Production Podcast, we unpack one of the most common challenges new parents face: understanding the difference between true low supply and perceived low supply, and what to do about it.
You’ll learn:
How to tell if your baby is getting enough milk
A quick, 90-second “at-home snapshot” to assess supply
Red flags that mean it’s time to seek professional help
Simple, proven ways to protect and boost output (hand expression, hands-on pumping, and more)
When medications or herbs might help — and why they’re not the first step
How postpartum anxiety and depression can affect milk supply worries
✨ Coming soon from The Milk Production: a prenatal breastfeeding course to prepare you before baby arrives + our 24/7 AI lactation support tool for real-time answers.
For show notes, additional resources, and virtual consults, visit: themilkproduction.com.
Welcome to this week's episode of The Milk Production with hosts Russ Rakestraw and Meaghan Selki. Russ and Meaghan discuss how and when to use a manual breast pump, including assembly, measuring flanges appropriately, and common mistakes to avoid. They also discuss how to clean the pump parts effectively. If you're a new mom or looking for practical breastfeeding advice, this episode is a must-watch!
In this episode of The Milk Production, host Meaghan Selki, IBCLC, welcomes special guest, fellow IBCLC, and esteemed author Catherine Watson Genna. Together, they delve into the complexities of milk production, teasing out the details on topics such as the importance of the early postpartum period and the impact of health conditions such as thyroid issues and metabolic disorders on lactation. Catherine shares invaluable insights on maximizing milk supply, the role of wearable pumps, and the significance of hand expression. They also discuss inducing lactation, managing lactation with obesity or hypothyroidism, and the importance of support systems for new mothers. Whether you're a lactation consultant, breastfeeding parent, or just interested in the science, this episode is packed with expert advice and practical tips.
Co-hosts Russ Rakestraw and Meaghan Selki cover vital nipple care tips for lactating families. They discuss normal vs. abnormal nipple pain, effective treatments for discomfort and damage, and bust some common myths around breastfeeding. Learn about various nipple care products, from creams to hydrogels, and discover why it's crucial to avoid using certain combinations. Don't miss practical advice on creating a more comfortable breastfeeding experience and the importance of timely lactation support. Make sure to like, subscribe, and comment with your feedback and topic suggestions! 08:38: Normal Nipple Pain 13:55: Abnormal Nipple Pain 17:05: Treatment Options 32:13: Things that are NOT needed
Join lactation consultant Meaghan Selki as she interviews a mother of two about her breastfeeding journey and the importance of postpartum support. They discuss the challenges faced, including severe reflux and lactation difficulties, and the crucial role of planning and support in navigating these hurdles. The episode also touches on topics such as extended breastfeeding, mental health support, and the use of GLP-1 medications during nursing. Tune in for valuable insights and tips for new and expecting parents.
In this week's episode, co-hosts Russ and Meaghan delve into the importance of prenatal lactation consultations. They discuss the benefits and education provided by these consultations, covering aspects such as general breastfeeding education, nipple anatomy, medical and personal histories, hands-on demonstrations, and the roles of supporting partners. Meaghan, who is a lactation consultant, provides insights into why the #prenatal #lactationconsult is crucial for expectant families and how it can prepare them for successful breastfeeding. The episode highlights 10 key reasons to schedule a prenatal lactation consult, aiming to equip parents with the knowledge and confidence needed for their breastfeeding journey. 00:00 Welcome and Introductions 08:43 10 Reasons for a Prenatal Lactation Consult 11:10 #1. General Breastfeeding Education 14:35 #2. What a Feed is Supposed to Look, Feel, & Sound Like 21:18 #3. Nipple Anatomy 24:03 #4. Medical History 33:53 #5. Personal History 40:48 #6. How-to's & Demonstrations 42:28 #7. Getting Acquainted with Your Pump 44:10 #8. Jobs for Your Partner or Other Support Person 48:05 #9. Nipple Care 49:56 #10. Feeding Issues 51:58 Recap of 10 Reasons for a Prenatal Lactation Consult, and Conclusion #breastfeeding #breastfeedingeducation #lactationsupport #lactationconsultant #breastfeedingtips #breastfeedingjourney
Meaghan reviews the FREE resource brought to you by the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine - a handout **made for parents** on Physiologic Infant Care: Support Breastfeeding, Sleep, and Well-being. The handout can be found here: https://abm.memberclicks.net/assets/PatientHandouts/English_ABM_Physiologic%20Infant%20Care%20Handout_Protected.pdf
In this episode, hosts Meaghan and Russ dive into various aspects of breastfeeding and supplementation in the early days post-delivery. They share personal stories, including unexpected challenges like bird flu and postpartum pre-eclampsia, and discuss the importance of breastfeeding education and support for new moms. They delve into the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine's Protocol #3 covering recommendations on when supplementation is necessary and how to prevent it, emphasizing the importance of skin-to-skin contact and rooming in. Along the way, the conversation meanders through personal anecdotes about birdwatching, family dynamics, and humorous parenting mishaps, making for an engaging discussion that balances expert advice with real-life experiences.
In this episode, we review the FREE resource trashthepumpanddump.org, brought to you by the breastfeeding medicine experts over at IABLE. I love this resource, I'm so glad it's free for medical professionals and for families on their breastfeeding and lactation journeys. Leave a comment with questions, thoughts or suggestions. Thanks for watching!
We interrupt our regularly scheduled programming to bring you a FREE crash course in breastfeeding prep. This is for our expecting listeners. Please know -- this only scratches the surface. You may end up with more questions than you had at the start. Connect with us to get more information. And we'll continue to dive deeper with other important teaching points. Hope you enjoy this intro!
We cover a lot of topics in Episode #4: feeding during hand, foot and mouth disease; antibodies in the milk; breast development, milk making, and weaning; antenatal colostrum harvesting; and importance of a good deep latch -- to say nothing of the failures of ours we also highlight from recent weeks. Join us, and hopefully you'll giggle at least once.
This episode was FUN! And nerdy... We got into gut health for the whole family, newborns and adults alike. We talked about hookworms and vaginal seeding and lactobacillus reuteri and Chopped and Dr. Greger. Take a listen, and drop us a comment. We desperately need your input about how to appropriately pronounce Tzatziki.