In this episode of Spill the Milk with Nicola, I’m joined by Dr Jennifer Hogan, consultant obstetrician in Dublin and mum of two boys.

Jennifer was diagnosed with breast cancer in her 30s and underwent radiotherapy on one breast, meaning she knew from the outset that breastfeeding would only be possible from one side. In this real conversation, Jennifer shares what feeding actually looked like from antenatal expressing and early supplementation, to nipple pain, reflux, and the realities of feeding a late-preterm baby.

We talk about:

• Breastfeeding from one breast when it can work, and when it feels overwhelming
• Feeding after cancer and rebuilding trust in your body
• Late preterm babies, pumping, and delayed latch
• Knowing when to keep going and when it’s okay to stop
• Letting go of all-or-nothing feeding expectations

This episode is for anyone who has been told breastfeeding might be “difficult”, “unlikely”, or “impossible” and for anyone supporting parents through complex feeding journeys.

If you’re pregnant and want personalised, realistic breastfeeding preparation, I offer private antenatal appointments in my Dublin office and online. Details are linked in the show notes.

https://www.breastfeedingsupport.ie/online-classes/one-to-one-private-prep-in-office/

Research on Breastfeeding Post Breast Cancer - https://healthcare-in-europe.com/en/news/breastfeeding-after-breast-cancer-treatment-safe.html

https://www.bfmed.org/assets/DOCUMENTS/PROTOCOLS/Protocol%20%2334%20-%20English%20Translation.pdf

breastfeeding after breast cancer, one-breast breastfeeding, late preterm feeding, antenatal expressing, pumping and breastfeeding, Irish maternity care, realistic breastfeeding, IBCLC support, Spill the Milk With Nicola podcast

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