In this insightful episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, host HeHe welcomes Ashlee Brown, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and mother of three, to discuss the crucial topic of perceived versus true low milk supply. The conversation starts with the prevalence of perceived low milk supply and its impact on breastfeeding duration. Ashlee shares her personal pregnancy journey and emphasizes the importance of understanding how your body changes during this period. They delve into the significance of early breastfeeding, the first hours after birth, and pumping strategies to build an optimal milk supply. The discussion also covers the role of flange sizes, hormonal influences, and the importance of proper latch techniques. Ashlee explains the benefits of evidence-based tools and supplements, and addresses common myths surrounding lactation. She also highlights the issue of widely spaced tubular breasts and insufficient glandular tissue (IGT) as potential reasons for low milk supply. Tune in to discover effective solutions and strategies for successful breastfeeding and learn how to distinguish between perceived and actual low milk supply.

00:00 Introduction and an update on HeHe’s Pregnancy Journey

03:12 The Birth Lounge App: Features and Benefits

06:04 Introduction to Low Milk Supply

06:53 Meet Ashlee Brown: Lactation Consultant

07:52 Understanding Low Milk Supply: Myths and Facts

23:24 Causes and Solutions for Low Milk Supply

29:07 The Importance of Proper Flange Sizes

33:07 Challenges with Breast Pumps and Wearable Pumps

37:26 Choosing the Right Breast Pump

38:29 Reusing Pumps for Future Children

40:28 Power Pumping and Its Effectiveness

44:14 Strategic Pumping to Increase Supply

49:18 Supplements and Diet for Milk Supply

53:04 Medications for Low Supply

55:08 Understanding Insufficient Glandular Tissue (IGT)

59:21 The Importance of Weighted Feeds

01:04:46 Final Thoughts and Support for Low Supply Moms 

Guest Bio:

Ashlee is a mom of 3, IBCLC, and the owner of Kentucky Breastfeeding Center located in Lexington, KY. She started as a childbirth educator and earned her IBCLC via pathway 3 mentorship at Novant Prince William hospital in Manassas, VA. She specializes in tongue & lip ties, low supply, and mentorship for future IBCLCs. Her passion is educating other professionals on the benefits of breastfeeding and the field of lactation.

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www.kentuckybreastfeedingcenter.com