Breastfeeding is often framed as natural, yet so many mothers struggle, feel overwhelmed, or are told their bodies are failing them. In this episode, we break down five major factors that can sabotage breastfeeding and why women are rarely prepared for them.
We explore how birth interventions, IV fluids, epidurals, misinformation, lack of postpartum support, and unrealistic expectations around sleep and feeding can deeply impact milk supply, confidence, and the breastfeeding relationship. We also unpack why phrases like “fed is best” can sometimes shut down honest conversations about the real challenges mothers face.
This conversation is not about shame or blame. It’s about education, context, and holding nuance. Tools like formula, C-sections, and IVF can be life-saving and necessary, but they should not be treated as the first or only option without addressing root causes and the systemic gaps in maternal care.
00:00 Introduction & Why this conversation matters
02:15 How birth influences breastfeeding
07:10 IV fluids, engorgement & supply panic
12:30 Epidurals & interventions
18:45 The worst breastfeeding advice
24:10 Bottles, pacifiers & nipple confusion
30:05 Where “fed is best” falls short
36:40 Systemic gaps in breastfeeding education
43:20 Formula, IVF & C-sections
51:10 Sleep pressure & breastfeeding
58:30 Compassion, context & informed choice
1:03:30 Final reflections
In This Episode, We Cover:
• How birth experiences influence breastfeeding success
• Common breastfeeding myths and harmful advice
• Why supply-and-demand is rarely explained clearly
• How sleep pressure disrupts maternal instincts
• Why breastfeeding struggles are not a personal failure
Resources From This Episode:
Healthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTube
Healthy As A Mother Podcast | Instagram
Healthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTok
Healthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch Store
Find more from Dr. Leah:
Dr. Leah Gordon | Instagram
Dr. Leah Gordon | Website
Womanhood Wellness | Website
Find more from Dr. Morgan:
Dr. Morgan MacDermott | Instagram
Dr. Morgan MacDermott | Website
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