In this episode of The IBCLC Mentor Podcast, Margaret Salty dives into the latest research articles from her Google Scholar alerts, exploring how recent findings can enhance the practice of IBCLCs. Margaret breaks down complex research into actionable strategies for lactation consultants, focusing on how these insights can improve breastfeeding outcomes. Whether you're a seasoned IBCLC or just starting your journey, these episodes will keep you at the forefront of evidence-based lactation care.

Margaret discusses a study by Thomson & Garrido (2025) that explores how human milk influences the gut microbiota in preterm infants and its potential for optimizing microbial development. The study highlights the role of human milk in establishing a healthy gut microbiome and the long-term benefits for preterm infant health.

Reference:

Thomson, P., & Garrido, D. (2025). How human milk shapes the gut microbiota in preterm infants: Potential for optimizing early-life microbial development. Microbiome Research Reports, 4(12), 1–11. https://doi.org/10.20517/mrr.2024.86

Practical Takeaways:

• Advocate for breast milk as the primary nutrition source for preterm infants.
• Educate NICU staff and parents about the impact of human milk on microbial development.
• Support donor milk programs to ensure preterm infants receive optimal nutrition.

This study by Hanumantharaju et al. (2025) analyzed how gestational age and lactation stage impact the microbiota of human milk. The findings suggest that preterm milk has lower bacterial diversity, emphasizing the need for targeted nutritional and probiotic support for preterm infants.

Reference:

Hanumantharaju, A., et al. (2025). Microbial adaptation in human milk: Unraveling the effects of gestational age and lactation stage among Indian mothers. Journal of Neonatology. https://doi.org/10.1177/09732179241308404

Practical Takeaways:

• Support early milk expression for mothers of preterm infants.
• Encourage sustained breastfeeding for optimal microbial diversity.
• Promote further research on regional variations in milk microbiota.

Margaret reviews a study by Faria et al. (2025) that examines how early breastfeeding initiation impacts obstetric outcomes, comparing data from before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings reinforce the benefits of immediate skin-to-skin contact and early breastfeeding for both mothers and infants.

Reference:

Faria, A. P. V., et al. (2025). Obstetric outcomes in breastfeeding women in the first hour of delivery before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, 25, 24. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12884-024-06975-1

Practical Takeaways:

• Advocate for uninterrupted skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth.
• Support policies ensuring early breastfeeding initiation, even in pandemic conditions.
• Educate healthcare providers on the long-term benefits of early breastfeeding.

This birth cohort study by Feldens et al. (2025) investigates the relationship between tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) and maternal breastfeeding confidence. The study found no significant differences in breastfeeding self-efficacy between mothers of infants with and without tongue-tie, suggesting that non-invasive lactation support should be the first-line intervention.

Reference:

Feldens, C. A., et al. (2025). Ankyloglossia and breastfeeding self-efficacy in newborns: A birth cohort study. BMC Oral Health, 25(64). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12903-025-05444-1

Practical Takeaways:

• Assess breastfeeding challenges holistically rather than assuming tongue-tie is the primary cause.
• Prioritize latch optimization, positioning, and parental education before considering frenotomy.
• Work with multidisciplinary teams to provide well-rounded lactation support.

Staying updated with the latest research is essential for providing the best care as an IBCLC. By integrating evidence-based strategies, you can enhance breastfeeding support and outcomes. Tune in each week as we explore more insights from the world of lactation science.

Have questions or suggestions for future episodes? Reach out at [insert website link] or connect with me on social media:

📷 Instagram: @margaretsalty

📘 Facebook: Margaret Salty's IBCLC Community

🎙️ Hosted by: Margaret Salty

🎵 Music by: The Magnifiers, "My Time Traveling Machine"

#IBCLC #LactationConsultant #BreastfeedingResearch #LactationMentor #IBCLCMentorPodcast #EvidenceBasedPractice

In this episode of The IBCLC Mentor Podcast, Margaret Salty interviews Caoimhe Whelan, an IBCLC, researcher, and author based in Dublin, Ireland. Together, they discuss Caoimhe’s journey into lactation consulting, her groundbreaking research on primary low milk supply, and her upcoming illustrated book designed to revolutionize breastfeeding education.

Caoimhe shares her path from being a volunteer breastfeeding counselor with Quiddu to establishing her private practice. She reflects on the challenges and rewards of supporting breastfeeding families in Ireland, where low breastfeeding rates and limited insurance coverage present unique barriers.

Caoimhe dives into her qualitative research exploring the emotional experiences of mothers with primary low milk supply. She explains how this work, published in leading journals, informed her empathetic and inclusive approach to supporting families.

Discover the inspiration behind Caoimhe’s upcoming book—a visually rich, illustrated guide for breastfeeding parents. She highlights the importance of creating an inclusive and accessible resource, emphasizing mental health, emotional support, and the beauty of connection.

Caoimhe provides insights into the unique challenges of private practice in Ireland, the cultural factors influencing breastfeeding rates, and how health policies differ from those in the United States. She also touches on the impact of formula marketing and the growing focus on tongue-tie.

Caoimhe emphasizes the value of humility, empathy, and holding space for parents. She shares her thoughts on the pressures IBCLCs face to "know it all" and advocates for returning to the core skills of connection and support.

Caoimhe Whelan’s dedication to supporting breastfeeding families and her innovative approach to education and research make this episode a must-listen. Whether you’re a student, a seasoned IBCLC, or a maternal health advocate, you’ll find practical wisdom and inspiration in this conversation.

• Follow Caoimhe on Instagram: @latch.ie
• Learn more about her research in Breastfeeding Medicine and International Breastfeeding Journal.
• Caoimhe’s book will be available on Amazon starting June 5, 2025.

Have questions or suggestions for future episodes? Reach out to Margaret at [insert website link] or connect on social media:

• Instagram: @margaretsalty
• Facebook: Margaret Salty’s IBCLC Community

• Hosted by: Margaret Salty
• Guest: Caoimhe Whelan
• Music by: The Magnifiers, "My Time Traveling Machine"

#IBCLC #LactationSupport #BreastfeedingEducation #BreastfeedingResearch #MentalHealth #BreastfeedingIreland #IBCLCMentorPodcast #MargaretSalty

In this episode of The IBCLC Mentor Podcast, Margaret Salty dives into the latest research articles from her Google Scholar alerts, exploring how recent findings can enhance the practice of IBCLCs. Margaret breaks down complex research into actionable strategies for lactation consultants, focusing on how these insights can improve breastfeeding outcomes. Whether you're a seasoned IBCLC or just starting your journey, these episodes will keep you at the forefront of evidence-based lactation care.

1. Breastfeeding and Multiple Sclerosis Progression

Margaret discusses a study by Bilge et al. (2025) that investigates the correlation between breastfeeding and disease progression in patients with multiple sclerosis. The findings highlight how breastfeeding can influence health outcomes for mothers with this condition.

Reference:

Bilge, N., Dagci, Y., Demirdogen, F., & Simsek, F. (2025). Correlation of breastfeeding with disease development and progression in patients with multiple sclerosis. Journal of Multiple Sclerosis Research, 4(3), 89–94. https://doi.org/10.4274/jmsr.galenos.2025.2024-12-3

2. Early Breastfeeding Initiation and Uterine Involution

Margaret reviews a study by Rukmawati & Fatimah (2025) examining the effect of early breastfeeding initiation on uterine involution in first-day postpartum mothers. She discusses how early breastfeeding can benefit maternal postpartum recovery.

Reference:

Rukmawati, S., & Fatimah, N. A. (2025). The effect of early breastfeeding initiation (IMD) on uterine involution in first-day postpartum mothers. Journal for Research in Public Health, 6(2), 65–67. https://jrph.org/

3. Predicting Low Milk Supply Through Milk Composition

Margaret shares insights from Jin et al. (2025), which utilized machine learning to analyze milk composition as a predictor of low milk supply. She explores how this technology could enhance lactation assessment tools.

Reference:

Jin, X., Lai, C. T., Perrella, S. L., Zhou, X., Hassan, G. M., McEachran, J. L., ... & Geddes, D. T. (2025). Milk composition is predictive of low milk supply using machine learning approaches. Diagnostics, 15(2), 191. https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15020191

4. Breastfeeding Knowledge Among Medical Students

This study by Salih et al. (2025) investigates knowledge and attitudes toward breastfeeding among female medical students. Margaret discusses the implications for breastfeeding advocacy and education among healthcare professionals.

Reference:

Salih, R., Fathallah, S., Mohammed, Z., Mustafa, H., Nouri, E., & Elnaje, T. (2025). Knowledge and attitude toward breastfeeding among female medical students. Alqalam Journal of Medical and Applied Sciences, 8(1), 85–90. https://doi.org/10.54361/ajmas.2581013

5. Feeding Decisions in Emergencies

Margaret examines the study by Mensah et al. (2024) that explores how the formula shortage during COVID-19 impacted infant feeding decisions. She highlights the importance of supporting breastfeeding during emergencies.

Reference:

Mensah, D., Agyemang, E. F., & Gewa, C. (2024). Understanding women, infant, and children feeding decisions in emergencies: The case of COVID-19 and the formula shortage. Journal of Health, Medicine, and Nursing, 118, 49-64. https://doi.org/10.7176/JHMN/117-05

• Support Mothers with Chronic Conditions: Educate and support mothers with multiple sclerosis on how breastfeeding may impact their health.
• Encourage Early Breastfeeding: Advocate for early initiation of breastfeeding to promote maternal recovery.
• Embrace Technology: Leverage tools like machine learning for milk supply assessment.
• Educate Future Healthcare Providers: Collaborate with medical students to strengthen breastfeeding advocacy.
• Plan for Emergencies: Develop strategies to support breastfeeding during crises.

Staying updated with the latest research is essential for providing the best care as an IBCLC. By integrating evidence-based strategies, you can enhance breastfeeding support and outcomes. Tune in each week as we explore more insights from the world of lactation science.

Have questions or suggestions for future episodes? Reach out at [insert website link] or connect with me on social media:

Instagram: @margaretsalty

Facebook: Margaret Salty's IBCLC Community

Hosted by: Margaret Salty

Music by: The Magnifiers, "My Time Traveling Machine"

#IBCLC #LactationConsultant #BreastfeedingResearch #LactationMentor #IBCLCMentorPodcast #EvidenceBasedPractice

In this episode of The IBCLC Mentor Podcast, Margaret Salty interviews Dr. Jimi Francis, a pioneering IBCLC, researcher, and assistant professor at the University of Texas in San Antonio. Together, they explore Dr. Francis’s inspiring journey from being a young mother and breastfeeding advocate to becoming a leading researcher in maternal and infant nutrition.

Dr. Francis shares her incredible story of breastfeeding as a teen mom in rural Nevada and how those experiences ignited her lifelong passion for helping mothers and babies.

Learn how Dr. Francis pursued her master’s and PhD to study maternal-infant nutrition, focusing on groundbreaking topics such as breast milk composition and yeast infections.

Dr. Francis discusses her long-running research on the factors that cause babies to refuse stored milk, the role of reactive oxygen species, and how storage containers and maternal nutrition impact milk quality.

Dr. Francis talks about her work with the Foundation for Milk, which provides breastfeeding support to military families worldwide. She highlights the challenges military families face and the innovative programs her organization offers, such as 40-hour community health worker training and upcoming boot camps for dads and grandparents.

Discover Dr. Francis’s research on biosensors to track milk transfer and how this emerging technology could empower mothers while addressing the gaps in postpartum breastfeeding support.

Dr. Francis emphasizes the importance of ongoing education, mentorship, and expanding your skillset to support mothers beyond the early days of breastfeeding.

Dr. Jimi Francis’s groundbreaking research and dedication to supporting breastfeeding families are truly inspiring. Whether you’re an IBCLC student, practicing consultant, or maternal health advocate, this episode is packed with actionable insights and innovation.

• Learn more about the Foundation for Milk: https://foundationformilk.org
• Follow the Foundation on X: @TXforMILK
• Foundation’s Substack: Foundation for Milk Substack

If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe to The IBCLC Mentor Podcast and leave a review. Don’t forget to share this episode with your colleagues and fellow IBCLCs!

Have questions or suggestions for future episodes? Reach out to Margaret at [insert website link] or connect with me on social media:

• Instagram: @margaretsalty
• Facebook: Margaret Salty’s IBCLC Community

• Hosted by: Margaret Salty
• Guest: Dr. Jimi Francis
• Music by: The Magnifiers, "My Time Traveling Machine"

#IBCLC #LactationSupport #MilkComposition #MaternalHealth #BreastfeedingResearch #IBCLCMentorPodcast #LactationMentor #MargaretSalty

In this episode of The IBCLC Mentor Podcast, Margaret Salty dives into the latest research articles from her Google Scholar alerts, exploring how recent findings can enhance the practice of IBCLCs. Margaret breaks down complex research into actionable strategies for lactation consultants, focusing on how these insights can improve breastfeeding outcomes. Whether you're a seasoned IBCLC or just starting your journey, these episodes will keep you at the forefront of evidence-based lactation care.

Human Milk Composition in Subclinical Mastitis

Margaret reviews a study by Ito et al. (2024) that investigates immunological factors and macronutrient content in human milk from mothers with subclinical mastitis. The findings shed light on how lactation consultants can address milk quality concerns while supporting continued breastfeeding.

Reference:

Ito, M., et al. (2024). Immunological factors and macronutrient content in human milk from women with subclinical mastitis. Journal of Human Lactation. DOI:10.1177/08903344241297585

Assessing Lactation with the LAT Tool

Margaret examines the psychometric properties of the Lactation Assessment and Comprehensive Intervention Tool (LAT), as discussed by Grady et al. (2024). She highlights how IBCLCs can use this validated tool to improve lactation support and interventions.

Reference:

Grady, J., et al. (2024). Psychometric properties of the Lactation Assessment and Comprehensive Intervention Tool (LAT). Nursing Reports, 14(4), 4119–4128. DOI:10.3390/nursrep14040300

Exclusive Breastfeeding and Febrile Seizures

This study by Gosal et al. (2024) links exclusive breastfeeding for six months with a reduced risk of febrile seizures in infants. Margaret discusses how IBCLCs can promote exclusive breastfeeding as a preventive health measure.

Reference:

Gosal, J., et al. (2024). Exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months is associated with reduced risk of febrile seizure. Paediatrica Indonesiana, 64(6), 463–468. DOI:10.14238/pi64.6.2024.463-8

Breastfeeding and ADHD Risk

Chen et al. (2024) explore the association between infant feeding and ADHD development. Margaret shares how IBCLCs can use this evidence to advocate for breastfeeding as a protective factor against neurodevelopmental challenges.

Reference:

Chen, C.-Y., et al. (2024). Association between infant feeding and ADHD development in childhood: A birth cohort study in Taiwan. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry. DOI:10.1111/jcpp.14100

Digital Health and Exclusive Breastfeeding

Margaret reviews a systematic review and meta-analysis by Thepha et al. (2024) that examines the effectiveness of digital health interventions compared to standard care in extending exclusive breastfeeding duration. She discusses how IBCLCs can integrate technology into their practices to enhance breastfeeding support.

Reference:

Thepha, T., et al. (2024). The effectiveness of digital health versus standard care on exclusive breastfeeding duration among postpartum mothers in LMICs: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Digital Health, 10(1), 1–12. DOI:10.1177/20552076241309520

• Manage Subclinical Mastitis: Provide tailored support to maintain milk quality and supply.
• Use Validated Tools: Incorporate the LAT tool for comprehensive lactation assessments.
• Promote Health: Advocate exclusive breastfeeding to prevent febrile seizures and support neurodevelopment.
• Leverage Technology: Utilize digital health solutions to extend breastfeeding duration.

Staying updated with the latest research is essential for providing the best care as an IBCLC. By integrating evidence-based strategies, you can enhance breastfeeding support and outcomes. Tune in each week as we explore more insights from the world of lactation science.

Have questions or suggestions for future episodes? Reach out at [insert website link] or connect with me on social media:

Instagram: @margaretsalty

Facebook: Margaret Salty's IBCLC Community

Hosted by: Margaret Salty

Music by: The Magnifiers, "My Time Traveling Machine"

#IBCLC #LactationConsultant #BreastfeedingResearch #LactationMentor #IBCLCMentorPodcast #EvidenceBasedPractice

In this episode of The IBCLC Mentor Podcast, Margaret Salty interviews Dr. Kimmarie Bugg, the visionary founder of ROSE (Reaching Our Sisters Everywhere), to discuss her inspiring journey into breastfeeding advocacy and her groundbreaking work addressing disparities in Black and marginalized communities. Together, they explore the origins and mission of ROSE, the programs it has implemented, and the transformative impact it has had on breastfeeding support and equity.

Dr. Bugg shares how her experiences as a nurse, lactation professional, and public health advocate shaped her passion for improving breastfeeding outcomes in marginalized communities.

ROSE's mission to decrease breastfeeding disparities and promote reproductive health and justice is at the heart of its work. Dr. Bugg explains how this vision guides every initiative, from advocacy to training programs.

Dr. Bugg highlights key ROSE programs, including:

• Breast Friends: Supporting mothers through the first eight weeks of breastfeeding to ensure success.
• Community Transformers: Training culturally appropriate breastfeeding peer counselors to enhance support networks.
• Fatherhood and Grandmother Initiatives: Engaging fathers and grandmothers to strengthen breastfeeding support systems.

Although based in Atlanta, ROSE's work spans the nation. From partnerships with 100 hospitals to community engagement in Guam and Puerto Rico, Dr. Bugg emphasizes the importance of a nationwide equity lens.

Dr. Bugg offers advice on building a solid foundation in the field, finding a mentor, focusing on equity and inclusion, and making a lasting impact. Her passion and persistence serve as an inspiration for all who aim to support breastfeeding families.

Dr. Kimmarie Bugg’s journey and dedication to equity in breastfeeding are nothing short of inspiring. Whether you’re an IBCLC student, a practicing consultant, or a maternal health advocate, this episode provides actionable insights and motivation to champion change.

• Learn more about ROSE: https://breastfeedingrose.org/
• Breastfeeding and Human Lactation (Seventh Edition) – Includes a chapter by ROSE
• Black Women and Resilience

If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe to The IBCLC Mentor Podcast and leave a review. Don’t forget to share this episode with your colleagues and fellow IBCLCs!

Have questions or suggestions for future episodes? Reach out to Margaret at [insert website link] or connect with me on social media:

• Instagram: @margaretsalty
• Facebook: Margaret Salty’s IBCLC Community

• Hosted by: Margaret Salty
• Guest: Dr. Kimmarie Bugg
• Music by: The Magnifiers, "My Time Traveling Machine"

#IBCLC #LactationSupport #BreastfeedingEquity #ROSE #BlackBreastfeedingWeek #MaternalHealth #IBCLCMentorPodcast #LactationMentor #MargaretSalty

In this episode of The IBCLC Mentor Podcast, Margaret Salty dives into the latest research articles from her Google Scholar alerts, exploring how recent findings can enhance the practice of IBCLCs. Margaret breaks down complex research into actionable strategies for lactation consultants, focusing on how these insights can improve breastfeeding outcomes. Whether you're a seasoned IBCLC or just starting your journey, these episodes will keep you at the forefront of evidence-based lactation care.

Maternal Energy Intake Timing and Infant Adiposity

Margaret reviews a study by Yaprak et al. (2024) that examines the association between the timing of maternal energy consumption and adiposity in breastfeeding infants. She discusses practical insights on how IBCLCs can guide mothers in optimizing nutrition to support healthy infant growth.

Reference:

Yaprak, D., et al. (2024). Association between timing of maternal energy consumption and adiposity in breastfeeding infants: A prospective cohort study. Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition. DOI:10.1002/jpen.2714

Exclusive Breastfeeding and Postpartum Depression

Meng et al. (2024) explore the sex-specific associations between exclusive breastfeeding and postpartum depression in Chinese women. Margaret highlights how these findings can inform lactation consultants in providing holistic care that considers maternal mental health.

Reference:

Meng, L., et al. (2024). Sex-specific associations between exclusive breastfeeding and postpartum depression in Chinese women. BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, 24(829). DOI:10.1186/s12884-024-07045-2

Breastfeeding Challenges After Breast Augmentation

Margaret examines a scoping review by Pereira et al. (2025) that investigates breastfeeding difficulties following breast augmentation. She offers evidence-based strategies to support mothers navigating these challenges.

Reference:

Pereira, R. R., et al. (2025). Breastfeeding difficulties after breast augmentation: A scoping review. Revista CEFAC, 27(2), e10923. DOI:10.1590/1982-0216/202527210923

Breastfeeding and Infant Respiratory Health

This prospective cohort study by Wang et al. (2024) links breastfeeding practices during the first 12 months with reduced respiratory tract infections in infants. Margaret discusses how IBCLCs can use this evidence to promote and protect breastfeeding practices.

Reference:

Wang, W., et al. (2024). Association between breastfeeding practices during the first 12 months and subsequent infant respiratory tract infections: A prospective cohort study. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition. DOI:10.1038/s41430-024-01558-x

• Guide Maternal Nutrition: Optimize maternal energy consumption to promote healthy infant growth.
• Support Maternal Mental Health: Address postpartum depression risks with breastfeeding strategies.
• Navigate Augmentation Challenges: Provide tailored support for mothers with breast implants.
• Promote Infant Health: Advocate for breastfeeding to reduce respiratory infections in infants.

Staying updated with the latest research is essential for providing the best care as an IBCLC. By integrating evidence-based strategies, you can enhance breastfeeding support and outcomes. Tune in each week as we explore more insights from the world of lactation science.

Have questions or suggestions for future episodes? Reach out at [insert website link] or connect with me on social media:

Instagram: @margaretsalty

Facebook: Margaret Salty's IBCLC Community

Hosted by: Margaret Salty

Music by: The Magnifiers, "My Time Traveling Machine"

#IBCLC #LactationConsultant #BreastfeedingResearch #LactationMentor #IBCLCMentorPodcast #EvidenceBasedPractice

In this episode of The IBCLC Mentor Podcast, Margaret Salty reconnects with her former student, Aviva, a speech pathologist and lactation consultant who works on the cleft team and in the developmental clinic at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles. Together, they explore Aviva’s journey into lactation consulting, how her dual expertise enhances her work with families, and the intersection of speech pathology and lactation.

Aviva shares how her role on a cleft team incorporates her lactation expertise, from feeding evaluations to supporting parents navigating the challenges of cleft palate and lip. She discusses the tools, techniques, and strategies used to address these unique cases.

Aviva highlights how building strong relationships with families is key to long-term success, whether in speech pathology or lactation consulting. She reflects on how her own experiences as a mother and professional have shaped her approach to patient care.

Aviva and Margaret discuss the different pathways to becoming an IBCLC, with a focus on the Pathway 2 program that Aviva completed, emphasizing the benefits of combining lactation education with clinical experience.

Aviva offers valuable advice for those considering a career in lactation consulting, particularly for speech pathologists looking to expand their expertise into feeding and breastfeeding support.

Aviva’s story demonstrates the power of interdisciplinary collaboration and the value of bringing unique perspectives to lactation care. Whether you’re a student, a new IBCLC, or a seasoned professional, this episode is filled with practical insights and inspiration to grow in your practice.

• Supporting Sucking Skills in Breastfeeding Infants by Catherine Watson Genna

If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe to The IBCLC Mentor Podcast and leave a review. Don’t forget to share this episode with your colleagues and fellow IBCLCs!

Have questions or suggestions for future episodes? Reach out to Margaret at [insert website link] or connect with me on social media:

• Instagram: @margaretsalty
• Facebook: Margaret Salty’s IBCLC Community

• Hosted by: Margaret Salty
• Guest: Aviva Moss
• Music by: The Magnifiers, "My Time Traveling Machine"

#IBCLC #LactationSupport #CleftCare #SpeechPathology #BreastfeedingSupport #IBCLCMentorPodcast #LactationMentor #MargaretSalty

In this episode of The IBCLC Mentor Podcast, Margaret Salty dives into the latest research articles from her Google Scholar alerts, exploring how recent findings can enhance the practice of IBCLCs. Margaret breaks down complex research into actionable strategies for lactation consultants, focusing on how these insights can improve breastfeeding outcomes. Whether you're a seasoned IBCLC or just starting your journey, these episodes will keep you at the forefront of evidence-based lactation care.

Trace Elements and Heavy Metals in Breast Milk

Margaret reviews a study by Embiriekah et al. (2024), which evaluates trace elements and heavy metals in breast milk compared to artificial milk. The findings emphasize the importance of supporting mothers to provide breast milk whenever possible and understanding potential environmental factors affecting milk composition.

Reference:

Embiriekah, S. M., Elmalimadi, M. B., & Ahwedg, E. A. (2024). Evaluation of some trace elements and heavy metals in breast milk and artificial milk. Afro-Asian Journal of Scientific Research, 2(4), 398–415. Link to Study

Impact of Cesarean Sections on Exclusive Breastfeeding

This multi-country study by Show et al. (2024) explores the effects of cesarean deliveries on exclusive breastfeeding rates. Margaret discusses how IBCLCs can address barriers associated with cesarean sections to improve breastfeeding initiation and continuation.

Reference:

Show, K. L., et al. (2024). Does caesarean section have an impact on exclusive breastfeeding? Evidence from four Southeast Asian countries. BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, 24, 822. DOI:10.1186/s12884-024-07024-7

Breastfeeding Journeys with Autistic and Neurotypical Infants

Margaret examines a study by Campbell et al. (2024) comparing the breastfeeding experiences of mothers with autistic and neurotypical infants. She highlights the unique challenges and strategies IBCLCs can employ to support mothers in diverse situations.

Reference:

Campbell, A. A., et al. (2024). Breastfeeding journeys: Comparing mothers’ experiences with autistic and neurotypical infants. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. DOI:10.1007/s10803-024-06669-9

Milk and Serum Composition in Mammary Function Studies

Wei et al. (2024) conducted a study exploring mammary gland secretion through a quantitative comparison of milk and serum. Margaret discusses how these findings enhance our understanding of milk production and secretion, providing IBCLCs with evidence to guide their practice.

Reference:

Wei, L., et al. (2024). A mammary gland secretion function exploratory study based on a quantitative comparison between milk and serum. Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry. DOI:10.1007/s11010-024-05187-7

• Promote Natural Nutrition: Highlight the benefits of breast milk over artificial milk, considering environmental influences.
• Support Cesarean Mothers: Address challenges in exclusive breastfeeding post-cesarean delivery.
• Inclusive Support: Tailor breastfeeding support for mothers of autistic infants.
• Enhance Milk Production Understanding: Use mammary function insights to inform lactation management.

Staying updated with the latest research is essential for providing the best care as an IBCLC. By integrating evidence-based strategies, you can enhance breastfeeding support and outcomes. Tune in each week as we explore more insights from the world of lactation science.

Have questions or suggestions for future episodes? Reach out at [insert website link] or connect with me on social media:

Instagram: @margaretsalty

Facebook: Margaret Salty's IBCLC Community

Hosted by: Margaret Salty

Music by: The Magnifiers, "My Time Traveling Machine"

#IBCLC #LactationConsultant #BreastfeedingResearch #LactationMentor #IBCLCMentorPodcast #EvidenceBasedPractice

In this episode of The IBCLC Mentor Podcast, Margaret Salty sits down with Melissa Cole, a board-certified lactation consultant, clinical herbalist, and author of the newly released Herbal Handbook for Perinatal and Pediatric Wellness. Together, they explore how herbal remedies can support perinatal and pediatric health, offering practical insights and evidence-based strategies for IBCLCs and healthcare providers.

Melissa Cole shares how herbs can complement traditional lactation support, with specific examples of herbs that may aid in addressing common breastfeeding challenges, such as low milk supply or nipple soreness.

This episode includes tips for safely incorporating herbal remedies into perinatal and pediatric care. Melissa emphasizes the importance of understanding herbal safety, dosing, and sourcing when working with breastfeeding families.

Melissa discusses how herbal care can go beyond lactation support to address broader family wellness needs, including postpartum recovery, infant digestive health, and emotional support for mothers.

Melissa Cole’s passion for blending herbal care with lactation support shines through in this engaging conversation. Whether you’re a seasoned IBCLC, a student, or simply curious about herbal remedies, this episode is filled with actionable information and fresh perspectives to enhance your practice.

Learn more about Melissa Cole: www.melissacole.com

Herbal Handbook for Perinatal and Pediatric Wellness: Available here

American Herbalist Guild: https://americanherbalistsguild.com/

American Botanical Council: https://www.herbalgram.org/

If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe to The IBCLC Mentor Podcast and leave a review. Don’t forget to share this episode with your colleagues and fellow IBCLCs!

Have questions or suggestions for future episodes? Reach out to Margaret at [insert website link] or connect with me on social media:

Instagram: @margaretsalty

Facebook: Margaret Salty’s IBCLC Community

Hosted by: Margaret Salty

Guest: Melissa Cole

Music by: The Magnifiers, "My Time Traveling Machine"

#IBCLC #LactationSupport #HerbalRemedies #PerinatalHealth #PediatricWellness #IBCLCMentorPodcast #LactationMentor #MelissaCole