In this episode of Behind the Latch, 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.

Key Points Covered:

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

Practical Applications for IBCLCs:

• 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.

Conclusion:

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.

Connect with Me:

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

Credits:

Hosted by: Margaret Salty

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

Hashtags and Keywords:

#IBCLC #LactationConsultant #BreastfeedingResearch #LactationMentor #EvidenceBasedPractice