Author: Julie Matheney

Feeding babies has been my passion since I was ten years old. Almost twenty years ago, I pursued becoming a speech therapist to work with babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. In working in that setting, I realized I wanted a more intimate approach to working alongside families as they struggled to feed their babies. I became a board certified lactation consultant and have really fallen in love with what I do. There’s nothing better than empowering families to reach their feeding goals, wherever they are in their journey, whether it’s exclusive breastfeeding, combo feeding, pumping or bottle feeding. I offer prenatal breastfeeding classes, virtual, office and home consultations. I can assess for tongue or lip ties, educate on pumps to maximize pumping sessions, transition baby to bottle in preparation for parents going back to work, help increase or decrease milk supply, and assist with all breastfeeding challenges.

Do I need to use pump flange spray while pumping?

- Julie Matheney

Breastfeeding can be a rewarding but challenging journey, especially when it comes to using a breast pump. One often overlooked aspect that can significantly enhance your pumping experience is lubrication. Here's why lubrication is essential while using a breast pump:

1. **Prevents Nipple Damage**: Dry pumping can lead to friction, which may cause nipple soreness, cracking, and irritation. Using a lubricant can help reduce this friction, keeping your nipples healthy and comfortable.

2. **Enhances Comfort**: Lubrication can make the pumping process much more comfortable. A smoother, less abrasive experience means you’re more likely to stick with your pumping routine, ensuring your baby gets the nourishment they need.

3. **Improves Suction Efficiency**: A properly lubricated nipple can help create a better seal with the pump flange. This can enhance the efficiency of the pump, allowing for better milk extraction in less time.

4. **Reduces Pumping Time**: When the pump is working efficiently and comfortably, you may find that your pumping sessions take less time. This can be a significant benefit for busy moms juggling multiple responsibilities.

5. **Prevents Plugged Ducts**: Consistent lubrication can help maintain a steady flow of milk and prevent issues such as plugged ducts, which can be painful and may lead to mastitis if not addressed.

### How to Properly Lubricate

1. **Choose a Safe Lubricant**: Opt for a nipple-friendly lubricant such as medical-grade lanolin, coconut oil, or a water-based lubricant specifically designed for breastfeeding. Avoid using lotions or products with fragrances and additives.

2. **Apply Before Pumping**: Before you start pumping, apply a small amount of the lubricant to your nipples and the inner part of the pump flange. Ensure even coverage without over-applying.

3. **Reapply as Needed**: If you’re pumping for extended periods, you may need to reapply the lubricant to maintain comfort and efficiency.

4. **Keep Clean**: Ensure that your pump parts are clean before applying the lubricant. Proper hygiene can prevent infections and ensure the longevity of your pump.

5. **Consult a Professional**: If you’re unsure about which lubricant to use or how to apply it, consult a lactation consultant for personalized advice and recommendations.

Incorporating lubrication into your pumping routine can make a significant difference in your comfort and efficiency. By taking this simple step, you can ensure a more pleasant and productive pumping experience, ultimately supporting your breastfeeding goals and your baby’s health.

Painful white spot on nipple: Milk blebs

- Julie Matheney

Managing a milk bleb (also known as a milk blister) can be uncomfortable, but there are effective ways to address it. Here are steps to help manage and treat a milk bleb:

🤱🏽Frequent Nursing: Continue breastfeeding frequently to keep milk flowing and prevent further blockages. Start nursing on the affected side first to ensure thorough drainage.

🤱🏼Proper Latch: Ensure your baby has a proper latch to prevent friction and irritation that can contribute to milk blebs. Change your feeding position to have baby’s mouth come from a different angle to the bleb

❤️‍🔥Warm Compresses: Apply a warm, moist compress to the affected nipple before nursing or pumping. This can help soften the bleb and promote milk flow.

👐🏼Gentle Massage: Gently massage the area around the bleb while breastfeeding or pumping to help clear the blockage. Be careful not to cause additional irritation.

🌦️Soak in Warm Water: Soak your nipple in warm water mixed with a little Epsom salt. This can help reduce inflammation and soften the skin.

🫒Olive or Coconut Oil: Apply a small amount of oil to the nipple to soften the skin and make it easier to remove the bleb.

⚔️Avoid popping it with a needle as this can increase your risk of infection.

🩹Antibiotic Ointment: For persistent or painful blebs, contact your healthcare provider and ask for a prescription of triamcinolone cream .

🥑Stay Hydrated and Healthy**: Maintain good hydration and a balanced diet to support overall health and effective milk production.

🤱🏽Consult a Lactation Consultant: If milk blebs are recurrent or particularly painful, consult a lactation consultant for personalized advice and support.

Always ensure good hygiene, wash your hands before touching your breasts, and keep your nipples clean and dry. If you experience persistent pain, signs of infection, or recurring blebs, seek medical advice promptly.

The Rooting Reflex

- Julie Matheney

The rooting reflex (RR) is a fascinating developmental milestone that begins even before birth and continues to evolve during infancy. RR is an automatic response in newborns characterized by turning their head toward a touch on their cheek or mouth. When you stroke or touch your baby's cheek or the corner of their mouth, they will instinctively turn their head in that direction, open their mouth, and make sucking motions. By turning towards a

touch, babies instinctively position themselves to find their food source and initiate feeding

The RR starts to develop in utero, typically around the 32nd week of pregnancy. During this time, baby's neurological and sensory systems are maturing rapidly. Once baby is born, the rooting reflex becomes more pronounced and functional. Immediately after birth, and often during the first few weeks of life, you can observe your baby's natural response to touch on their cheek or around their mouth. It’s a reflex, so this is also why they will try to root and latch to dad’s nose or even to grandma’s chest.

The RR is at its strongest during the newborn phase, the first 0-3 months. Babies rely heavily on this reflex to initiate feeding, whether at the breast or with a bottle. As baby's neurological system continues to mature, the rooting reflex gradually integrates with other feeding skills. By around 4 to 6 months of age, babies start to gain more head control and may rely less on the rooting reflex for feeding.

You can actively support baby's RR by:

- Positioning baby close during feeding. Their chin and cheeks should be physical touching your breast and your fingers can touch their cheeks during bottle feeding

- Let baby lay on both of their sides during tummy time, not just on their belly. As the floor triggers the reflex, it helps not only integrate it, but also will eventually help with rolling over and finding toys

- Being responsive to your baby's cues and feeding needs, especially during the early weeks and months.

Have you noticed the rooting reflex in your baby? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below! 💬🍼 #RootingReflex #NewbornDevelopment #ParentingJourney

**Understanding the Rooting Reflex: A Guide for Parents**

As parents, understanding your baby's reflexes can offer valuable insights into their development and needs. One such reflex that plays a crucial role in feeding and bonding is the rooting reflex. Let's dive into what the rooting reflex is, why it's important, and how you can observe and support this natural behavior.

**What is the Rooting Reflex?**

The rooting reflex is an automatic response in newborns characterized by turning their head toward a touch on their cheek or mouth. When you stroke or touch your baby's cheek or the corner of their mouth, they will instinctively turn their head in that direction, open their mouth, and make sucking motions.

**Why is the Rooting Reflex Important?**

The rooting reflex is essential for breastfeeding or bottle feeding. By turning towards a touch on the cheek, babies are naturally positioning themselves to find the breast or bottle. This reflex helps babies locate the source of nourishment and initiate feeding.

**How to Identify the Rooting Reflex:**

You can observe the rooting reflex in your baby from birth. Here's how:

- Stroke your baby's cheek gently with your finger or the nipple of a bottle.

- Notice if your baby turns their head towards the side that was touched.

- Observe if your baby opens their mouth in preparation for sucking.

**Supporting the Rooting Reflex:**

As a parent, you can support your baby's rooting reflex during feeding:

- Position your baby close to your breast or the bottle, allowing them to easily latch onto the nipple.

- Stroke your baby's cheek or mouth gently to encourage them to turn towards the feeding source.

- Be patient and responsive to your baby's cues during feeding.

**Development and Outgrowing the Reflex:**

The rooting reflex typically begins at birth and gradually diminishes as your baby grows older. By around 4 months of age, most babies have developed stronger head control and are less reliant on this reflex for feeding.

**Final Thoughts:**

The rooting reflex is a fascinating and important part of your baby's early development, especially in the context of feeding and bonding. Understanding and observing this reflex can help you establish a positive and nurturing feeding experience for you and your little one.

Have you noticed the rooting reflex in your baby? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below! 💬👶 #NewbornDevelopment #RootingReflex #Parenting101

Homesick feeling while breastfeeding: DMER

- Julie Matheney

Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex (D-MER) During Breastfeeding

Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex (D-MER) is a condition that affects some breastfeeding mothers, characterized by negative emotions that occur just before or during milk letdown. Unlike postpartum depression or anxiety, D-MER is specifically linked to the physiological process of milk release. Understanding D-MER is important for providing support and effective management for affected mothers.

What is D-MER?

D-MER is a sudden and brief wave of negative emotions, such as sadness, anxiety, irritability, or even a sense of dread, that occurs just before the milk ejection reflex. These feelings typically last only a few minutes and resolve once milk flow begins.

Symptoms of D-MER

Symptoms of D-MER vary in intensity and nature but are generally negative and unpleasant. They can include:
- **Sadness or Despair**: Feeling profoundly sad or hopeless.
- **Anxiety or Panic**: Experiencing a sense of anxiety, panic, or nervousness.
- **Irritability or Anger**: Sudden feelings of irritability or anger.
- **Dread or Guilt**: A sense of dread or guilt with no apparent cause.
- **Emotional Numbness**: Feeling emotionally detached or numb.

Causes of D-MER

The exact cause of D-MER is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to the hormonal changes that occur during breastfeeding:
- **Dopamine Regulation**: D-MER is thought to involve a rapid drop in dopamine, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, which occurs to allow prolactin (the hormone responsible for milk production) to rise.
- **Hormonal Imbalance**: The sudden shift in hormone levels during milk letdown can trigger the dysphoric response.

Distinguishing D-MER from Other Conditions

D-MER is distinct from other emotional or psychological conditions like postpartum depression (PPD) or postpartum anxiety (PPA):
- **Timing**: D-MER is closely linked to the act of breastfeeding and the letdown reflex, whereas PPD and PPA are more constant and pervasive.
- **Duration**: The negative emotions in D-MER are short-lived, lasting only a few minutes during milk letdown.
- **Specificity**: D-MER symptoms are specifically triggered by breastfeeding, not by other activities or events.

Managing D-MER

While D-MER can be distressing, several strategies can help manage the condition:

1. **Education and Awareness**: Understanding that D-MER is a physiological response and not a reflection of your emotional state can provide reassurance. Knowing that it is a temporary and normal reaction can reduce anxiety about the condition.

2. **Support System**: Talk to a healthcare provider, lactation consultant, or support group about your experiences. Support from others who understand D-MER can be invaluable.

3. **Stress Reduction**: Engage in stress-reducing activities such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or gentle physical activities like walking or yoga to help manage overall stress levels.

4. **Hydration and Nutrition**: Maintain a healthy diet and stay well-hydrated to support overall well-being and potentially mitigate some of the symptoms.

5. **Monitor and Track**: Keep a journal to track when D-MER symptoms occur, their intensity, and any possible triggers. This information can be helpful for discussing with your healthcare provider.

6. **Medications**: In some cases, medications that help regulate dopamine levels may be considered. Always discuss with a healthcare provider before starting any medication.

When to Seek Help

If D-MER symptoms are severe, persistent, or interfere significantly with your ability to breastfeed or care for your baby, it is important to seek professional help. A healthcare provider or mental health professional can offer guidance and treatment options tailored to your needs.

Conclusion

D-MER is a challenging but manageable condition that affects some breastfeeding mothers. By recognizing the symptoms, understanding the causes, and implementing effective management strategies, mothers can continue to breastfeed while minimizing the impact of D-MER. Support from healthcare professionals, lactation consultants, and peer groups can make a significant difference in navigating this experience.

Do I need to fortify my preemie’s milk

- Julie Matheney

In the delicate world of premature babies, every ounce of care and nutrition matters profoundly. For mothers of preemies who choose to breastfeed, human milk fortification emerges as a vital intervention that can significantly impact the health and development of their fragile infants.

Breast milk is undoubtedly the gold standard for infant nutrition, offering a unique blend of nutrients, antibodies, and growth factors that promote optimal growth and immunity. However, many families with preterm infants typically 31-33 weekers) may be told their breast milk isn’t nutritionally adequate and they either need to supplement baby with formula or a human milk fortifier. It’s not that your milk is inadequate, it’s that babies born early miss out on a surge of nutrient absorption that normally would have occurred during the third trimester. Preemies have higher nutrient requirements, especially for protein, minerals like calcium and phosphorus, and certain vitamins like vitamin D. They should have been getting these nutrients from your placenta which takes these nutrients from your blood and bones. A preemie’s gastrointestinal tract is also very immature, less efficient at processing nutrients and more prone to distress. Preemies who experience medical complications including infection, respiratory disorders, surgeries, and stress, experience an increase in metabolism and increased caloric demand. So babies born prematurely have multiple reasons for needing more nutrients than an otherwise healthy full-term baby. Human milk fortifiers are designed to supplement breast milk with these essential nutrients to match the specific needs of premature infants, supporting their growth and development, that they missed.

Currently there are two main types of human milk fortifier available. The first is made using cow-based protein. It comes as either a powder or liquid which get added to pumped breast milk. The second fortifier is actually made of donated human milk from other pumping mothers. The only manufacturer of human based fortifier in the US currently is Prolacta Bioscience, and is only available to hospitals. Donated milk is modified into a frozen liquid concentrate which is added to pumped milk in the NICU.

Premature infants often struggle with catching up to the growth milestones of full-term babies. Fortifying breast milk helps enhance calorie intake and nutrient absorption, aiding in weight gain and promoting more rapid growth without increasing the volume of milk intake.

Preterm infants are at increased risk of various health complications, including necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and developmental delays. Fortified breast milk has been shown to lower the incidence of NEC and other serious conditions by providing a more robust nutritional profile.

Adequate nutrition during the neonatal period is critical for preventing long-term health problems such as neurodevelopmental impairments and metabolic disorders. Fortifying breast milk ensures that preemies receive the essential nutrients necessary for optimal brain and organ development.

Human milk fortification enables mothers to continue breastfeeding while meeting their preemie's unique nutritional needs. This approach supports the emotional and physiological benefits of breastfeeding while addressing the challenges posed by premature birth.

How long after birth they need to be supplemented depends upon many factors, including baby’s gestational age at birth, medical condition, nutritional status, and the individual practices of the NICU team your baby worked with. It’s very common for NICU graduates to require special nutrients for weeks to months after going home. This might be as simple as adding small amounts of over-the-counter preemie formula to pumped milk, adding in a few bottles of preemie formula each day, or as complex as using specialized prescription formulas. 

Ultimately, human milk fortification represents a critical component of neonatal care for premature infants. It empowers mothers to provide the best nutrition possible for their preemies, supporting their babies' health and development during this vulnerable stage of life. Healthcare providers play a pivotal role in guiding mothers through the process of human milk fortification, offering education and support to optimize outcomes for these tiny fighters.

By recognizing the importance of fortifying breast milk for preemie babies, we can enhance the quality of care and improve the long-term health prospects of these resilient little ones. Every drop of fortified breast milk signifies a step forward in nurturing and protecting the smallest members of our communities.

The composition of breast milk undergoes significant changes to meet the evolving nutritional needs of infants as they grow. The differences between preterm (colostrum and transitional milk) and mature breast milk are particularly important for understanding how mothers can support the unique requirements of preterm babies. Here's a breakdown of these differences:

**1. Protein Content:**

   - Preterm Breast Milk: Higher in protein, specifically whey protein, which is easier for preterm infants to digest.

   - Mature Breast Milk: Lower in total protein compared to preterm milk, with a higher proportion of casein protein.

**2. Fat Composition:**

   - Preterm Breast Milk: Contains more medium-chain fatty acids and higher levels of essential fatty acids like DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and ARA (arachidonic acid), which are crucial for brain and visual development.

   - Mature Breast Milk: Higher in long-chain fatty acids, reflecting the changing needs of the growing infant.

**3. Carbohydrates:**

   - Preterm Breast Milk: Contains higher levels of lactose and oligosaccharides, providing readily available energy for the developing preterm baby.

   - Mature Breast Milk: Still rich in lactose but with a slightly lower concentration compared to preterm milk.

**4. Minerals and Vitamins:**

   - Preterm Breast Milk: Generally higher concentrations of certain minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and zinc to support bone and overall growth.

   - Mature Breast Milk: Adequate levels of minerals and vitamins tailored to the needs of a growing infant.

**5. Immunological Factors:**

   - Preterm Breast Milk: Richer in immunoglobulins (especially secretory IgA) and other immune factors to bolster the preterm baby's immature immune system and protect against infections.

   - Mature Breast Milk: Continues to provide valuable immunological support but at levels adjusted for the older infant's immune needs.

**6. Growth Factors:**

   - Preterm Breast Milk: Higher levels of growth factors like insulin-like growth factor (IGF) to support rapid growth and development.

   - Mature Breast Milk: Contains growth factors in appropriate proportions to sustain healthy growth without promoting excessive weight gain.

**7. Micronutrients:**

   - Preterm Breast Milk: Often supplemented with higher levels of vitamins and minerals to meet the increased requirements of preterm infants.

   - Mature Breast Milk: Provides sufficient micronutrients for the needs of older infants, although additional supplementation may be necessary depending on the infant's diet.

Understanding these differences underscores the importance of tailored nutrition for preterm infants. While human milk is always beneficial, preterm breast milk offers a specialized blend of nutrients and bioactive components uniquely suited to support the growth and development of premature babies during the critical early stages of life. As preterm infants transition to mature breast milk, the composition adjusts to meet their changing nutritional demands, ensuring optimal health and development as they continue to thrive on mother's milk.

 

Trauma informed postpartum care

- Julie Matheney

Giving birth is a profound experience that can impact a person both physically and emotionally. For individuals who have experienced trauma either before or during childbirth, receiving care from trauma-informed healthcare professionals (HCPs) is crucial for well-being and recovery.

Trauma-informed care is an approach that recognizes the widespread impact of trauma and emphasizes safety, trustworthiness, choice, collaboration, and empowerment in healthcare settings. It acknowledges the potential triggers and sensitivities that individuals with trauma histories may have

Why It's Important After Birth:

❤️Respecting Individual Experiences: It that every person's experience is unique and that past traumas can affect present health. It ensures that HCPs approach each patient with empathy, sensitivity, and understanding

  

❤️Reducing Triggers and Stress: Childbirth itself can be a triggering event for individuals with trauma histories. HCPs who are trauma-informed take proactive steps to create environments that minimize triggers and stressors, promoting a sense of safety and comfort

❤️Enhancing Communication: Trauma-informed care emphasizes clear and respectful communication. HCPs are trained to ask open-ended questions, listen actively, and validate patient experiences, fostering a collaborative and trusting relationship

❤️Supporting Emotional Health: Postpartum emotions can be intense and complex. Trauma-informed professionals are equipped to recognize signs of distress or post-traumatic stress and provide appropriate support and resources

❤️Promoting Recovery and Healing: By integrating trauma-informed practices, HCPs can contribute to the healing process and help individuals build resilience following childbirth-related trauma

Every person deserves to feel safe, supported, and respected in their healthcare journey, especially after childbirth

**How to Access Trauma-Informed Care:**

- **Ask Questions:** When seeking healthcare services after childbirth, inquire about the provider's approach to trauma and whether they have specific training or experience in trauma-informed care.

  

- **Advocate for Your Needs:** Share your trauma history and specific triggers with your healthcare provider. Open communication allows for tailored care that respects your boundaries and promotes your well-being.

- **Seek Support:** If you're unsure where to find trauma-informed care, reach out to local support groups, therapists specializing in trauma, or community organizations that can provide recommendations.

**Remember, You Deserve Compassionate Care:**

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This post aims to highlight the importance of trauma-informed care in the context of postpartum health and emphasizes the value of working with understanding and supportive healthcare professionals after childbirth.

Exclusively pumping is like having unexpected twins

- Julie Matheney

The Double Duty of Exclusive Pumping:

🧑🏽‍🍼Time and Effort: Exclusively pumping requires significant time and dedication. You're not just feeding one baby directly; you're also spending extra hours feeding your pump. Not to mention all the set up and clean up that involves

🎛️Logistics:Managing the logistics of pumping and feeding your baby involves intricate planning and organization—keeping track of pumping schedules, milk storage, sterilization, and bottle preparation

🎢Physical and Emotional Demands: Exclusive pumping can be physically and emotionally demanding. It requires resilience and perseverance to maintain a steady milk supply while

Remember, You Are Incredible:

- Your dedication is extraordinary. Unlesss they’ve done it before, people don’t understand that exclusive pumping (or triple feeding) is like having twins. It’s not **just pumping**, it’s feeding two babies, one is just electronic

- It's okay to feel overwhelmed or exhausted at times. Stay hydrated. Make sure you have plenty of snacks. Naming your pump can help some feel more connected to the process. Find support to make sure you have a quality pump and the right size flanges as well as help with pump schedules to make sure you reach your goals

- Celebrate your achievements. Every ounce of milk pumped is a testament to your determination to reach your feeding goals

This message is a reminder of the incredible dedication and love that goes into exclusive pumping. It's important to acknowledge the challenges while also celebrating the immense strength and resilience of parents who undertake this journey

Understanding the Witching Hour in babies

- Julie Matheney

Have you heard about the "witching hour"? It’s a term used to describe a challenging time, usually in the late afternoon or evening, when babies become irritable, fussy, and difficult to soothe. It often occurs between 5 p.m. and midnight, though it can vary from baby to baby. It's a common in the first few months after birth. Why does it happen? No one really knows but we speculate it’s from:

🗝️Overstimulation: Throughout the day, babies accumulate sensory input from their environment. By the evening, they may become overwhelmed and find it challenging to settle

🗝️Tiredness: Babies get overtired by the end of the day, making it harder for them to relax and fall asleep. They often need one more cat nap before bed, usually coinciding with your dinner time

🗝️Developmental Changes: Babies often have growth spurts and developmental leaps, which can make them more unsettled during certain periods

🗝️Cluster Feeding: Babies often cluster feed at this time as it coincides with when milk volumes are at their lowest during the day

Tips:

📌Learn baby’s natural rhythms. Many babies need shorter naps and more frequent feedings in the afternoon and evening

📌Reduce Stimulation: As the evening approaches, create a calm and quiet environment. Dim the lights and lower noise levels

📌Provide comfort to your baby through gentle rocking, swaying, babywearing and Skin-to-skin contact

📌Feed: Cluster feeding is common. However, if baby normally latches and refuses to latch, they most likely don’t want to feed, even if you can get them to take a bottle

📌Stay Calm:  this is temporary and resolve as your baby grows.

📌While common, it's essential to trust your gut. If your baby's fussiness seems excessive or is accompanied by other symptoms like fever or persistent crying, consult your pediatrician to rule out any underlying issues.

In conclusion, while the witching hour can be exhausting for parents, it's a normal phase of infant development. By understanding the triggers and implementing strategies to soothe your baby, you can navigate through this period with patience and confidence. Remember, you're not alone in this journey of parenthood!

Weaning toddler from breastfeeding

- Julie Matheney

When and how you wean from breastfeeding is a personal decision, and there is no right or wrong way to go about it. Weaning a toddler from breastfeeding is a gradual process that requires patience and sensitivity.

🗝️Introduce Alternative Milk or Drinks. Start offering cow's milk or a suitable alternative if they are over 1 year old. Gradually replace breastfeeds with milk in a cup. Cow’s milk is a good source of fat and calcium, but never needed if your toddler eats a well balanced diet with other foods rich in fat and calcium

🗝️Gradually reduce the number of breastfeeding sessions. Start by dropping one feed at a time, perhaps beginning with daytime feeds before tackling bedtime or morning feeds

🗝️Don’t offer, don’t refuse. Don’t offer the breast at routine times, but it’s ok to offer it when asked. Eventually this will turn into distract, delay, and don’t sit down!

🗝️Distract and delay. Engage your toddler in other activities or offer comfort in different ways when they ask to breastfeed. Substitute breastfeeding with a favorite toy, book, or snack

🗝️Gradual Shortening of Feeds. Try shortening the duration of each feed over time. Set a timer and when it dings, it’s time to stop. Start the timer at your usual nursing length and shorten the time each day

🗝️Discuss this with your toddler! They understand more than you think. Have a discussion with them about why you’re stopping in language they can understand. This is a good chance to introduce the concept of bodily autonomy and consent. Read a book that talks about weaning, like The Booby Moon, and talk about it together

🗝️Cover your nipples and reduce access. Wearing clothing like sports bras and high neck shirts and dresses can help reduce access. For older toddlers or preschoolers, some moms will cover their nipples with bandaids and say either their nipples hurt or their boobies are broken, whichever language resonantes best with your child

🗝️Understand that weaning can be an emotional process for both you and your toddler. Offer extra cuddles, reassurance, and comfort during this transition

🗝️Be Consistent and Patient: Create a plan you feel you can carry out and stick to it. Once you establish a rule about breastfeeding, don’t change it. Especially for tantrums. If you give in, this only reinforces that your toddler just has to escalate the tantrum and you’ll give in to their demands. If you don’t want to cold turkey wean, come up with a plan with gradual steps that you fell comfortable enforcing

### Night Weaning:

- Night weaning can be a separate process. Gradually reduce nighttime feeds or comfort your toddler in other ways if they wake up seeking breastfeeding.

### Celebrate Milestones:

- Celebrate each step achieved towards weaning. Praise your toddler for being a big boy or girl and trying new ways of getting comfort.

### Seek Support:

- Talk to other moms, friends, or a healthcare professional if you need guidance or emotional support during the weaning process.

### Final Transition:

- Once breastfeeding is fully phased out, celebrate this milestone together and focus on the new ways you can bond with your toddler.

Remember, weaning is a personal journey that varies for every child and parent. The key is to approach it with love, patience, and understanding.

”Feeding Advice”

- Julie Matheney

Feeding “advice” we would never tell an adult:

⌚️It hasn’t been 3 hours yet. You can’t possibly be hungry again

⏱It hasn’t been 3 hours yet. You can’t possibly be thirsty again.

🧊You need to drink all 64oz of your daily water intake in 4 equally portioned cups. If you can’t drink 16 ounces in one sitting, something is wrong with you.

🍽Clean plate club. Finish everything on your plate regardless of how full your stomach feels.

🍏Eat food purely for their nutritional value. 🍦Never have food simply for the comfort or enjoyment of it.

🔦Eat alone in a dark room and never with anyone else

💡How could you get so distracted while eating? Focus and pay attention.

🪑Eat until you’re done then leave the table immediately. Don’t hang out at the table for longer than needed.

🛌Never eat a bed time snack

🛏Wake up in the middle of the night thirsty? Too bad. Go back to bed you can have some water in the morning

⏰You have 15 minutes to eat. Tic toc. When the clock hits 15 you need to stop whether you’re done or not

🍴3 meals, 2 snacks. That’s it. 7, 9, 12, 3 and 5. Hungry or thirsty at a different time? Here’s a pen cap to chew on

🍔There’s only one way to eat and if you don’t eat like me and my family you’re doing it wrong


Do you get where I’m going here? Too often we analyze the science of breastfeeding instead of considering the art of feeding and eating. We try to make a literal formula for how our baby should eat when some times we have to appreciate feeding for what it is: an enjoyable and pleasurable sensory experience that is social and includes more than just calorie intake.