Ep. 53 Breastfeeding Preparation and Success with Susan Brennan, IBCLC, PMH-C

Breastfeeding is natural, but it isn't always instinctive. In this episode, guest Susan Brennan explains why preparing to breastfeed before your baby's arrival can spare you a lot of difficulty later on — and why breastfeeding support matters well beyond the early postpartum weeks.Susan is a registered nurse and an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) — we'll explain exactly what that means a bit later. She's also a PMH-C, meaning she's certified in perinatal mental health, a credential that matters enormously in a world where maternal mental health is too often overlooked. This training, paired with years of hands-on experience gives Susan a deep understanding of the emotional impact breastfeeding can have on a new family.Susan works full-time as an in-office RN and IBCLC at Metropolitan Breastfeeding, home to award-winning lactation consultants and a three-time recipient of the IBCLC Care Award. Susan is dedicated to helping families reach their breastfeeding goals, drawing on her expertise to assess, diagnose, and treat lactation challenges while educating and empowering parents with best practices. Her background spans maternity and NICU units, outpatient pediatrics, and both office and in-home care.IMPORTANT TIMESTAMPS:05:51 What an IBCLC Means10:38 Metropolitan Breastfeeding Team11:45 Prep Before Baby Arrives16:11 Milk Supply Anxiety21:11 Colostrum to Mature Milk23:47 Protecting Mom’s Wellbeing25:40 Partner Support and Red Flags32:32 Support Beyond Newborn Stage34:15 Plugged Ducts vs MastitisMetropolitan Breastfeeding - main office is in Bethesda, Maryland​ with satellite offices in Northern Virginia in Fairfax, Alexandria, Chantilly, Woodbridge​. They don't have office space in DC, ​but we offer telehealth ​and home visits as well.EMAIL:  susan@metropolitanbreastfeeding.com. WEBSITE: metropolitanbreastfeeding.com. ​IG: @metropolitanbreastfeedingFor more info on Snugghug, visit their website here: https://www.snugghug.com/On IG: @snugghug.comInfant Risk Center​ is the resource Susan mentioned for expert Guidance on medications during breastfeeding & pregnancy: ​https://infantrisk.com/​Visit us at ⁠Mamistad.com⁠ for more info about Mamistad and to learn more about Mamistad groups! As always, if you're a new mom, even if it's not with Mamistad, please find your MAMA TRIBE.Visit ⁠MOM CHAT WITH MAMISTAD⁠ for a full list of all episodes.Take care of each other. Mamistad,Cynthia~Women are incredible, Moms are limitless, and a Sisterhood of Moms is a force of nature.Information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical care, to diagnose medical conditions, or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition. We encourage anyone to seek help from a qualified medical professional where issues deem it necessary. No liability is assumed.