Breastfeeding & Beyond - Dr Melody Jackson

17/02/2026

New analysis highlights breastfeeding rate trends across Europe, noting that comparisons between countries can be complex due to differences in how data is collected and reported.

The findings add to ongoing conversations about how breastfeeding data is measured and interpreted across health systems.

See the analysis: https://factcheckni.org/articles/health-in-ni-are-northern-irelands-breastfeeding-rates-among-the-lowest-in-europe/

15/02/2026

Human milk may not be magic but it does adapt its composition based on pathogen exposure and the developing needs and age of the nursling.

Two bags of milk pumped just hours apart, one before cold symptoms in began and one after I knew I was getting sick. My milk typically wasn’t very different in color from pumping session to pumping session no matter the time of day but the bag I pumped this time in the morning when I woke up feeling a little sick was more yellow.

The more yellow color is likely due to an increase in of immune components in the milk such as leukocytes (white blood cells that help fight infection) present in the milk as well as higher levels of antibidies, immunoglobulin A (IgA). My body was able to adapt to provide my baby this immune protection. This time my baby didn’t get sick (thankfully, he was only a month old and already had health issues) but even when he did later his sickness was less severe and shorter duration than my own.

Just like a fully functioning mature immune systems doesn’t mean you never get sick, so human milk doesn’t mean babies will never get sick. Every baby is different.

15/02/2026

📢 What Australian parents and caregivers need to know about pertussis (whooping cough)

Recent health data shows that whooping cough cases have reached their highest levels in Australia in over 35 years. This highly contagious respiratory infection — also known as pertussis — can be especially severe for very young babies who aren’t yet fully protected. 

🌬 Why this matters
Babies under 6 months are at greatest risk of serious complications from whooping cough, including hospitalisation. Older children and adults can still catch and spread it, even with mild symptoms, which means community protection matters. 

💉 Vaccination works
Routine pertussis vaccination is proven to reduce the risk of infection and severe outcomes. Pregnant women are recommended to receive a pertussis booster during each pregnancy to help protect newborns before they can be vaccinated themselves. 

✔️ What you can do:
• Keep immunisations up to date for yourself and your family
• Talk to your GP or maternal health provider about vaccinations in pregnancy
• Watch for early symptoms (runny nose, mild cough that becomes persistent) and seek advice if you’re concerned 

We know these times can be worrying — you’re doing an amazing job navigating them. ❤️ If you have questions about pertussis, immunisation schedules, or protecting your baby, we’re here to help.

04/02/2026

I love this year’s slogan!

slogan announcement - https://mailchi.mp/waba.org.my/wbw2o25-slogan-announcement-5408303

30/01/2026

Last chance for early bird registration for the Breastfeeding Medicine conference upcoming in May!

This is it! You’re last chance to get a $100 early bird discount to BMNANZ26!!! No more extensions 😭

Join us in Sydney, May 1-3, 2026!

For more information and to register: https://na.eventscloud.com/website/90486/home/

22/01/2026

A great article on expressing colostrum before baby is born.

Should moms be harvesting colostrum before their babies are born? Hear from ABM Member, Dr. Miena Meek Hall, and others on this emerging trend and leave us a comment with your thoughts. 👇

https://nypost.com/2026/01/05/health/moms-are-harvesting-liquid-gold-colostrum-before-their-babies-are-born/

21/01/2026

❤️

19/01/2026

GUESS WHAT?!?

The conference committee made a last minute decision to extend the early bird cut off until the end of January 😱👏

Don’t miss out on the $100 saving. It won’t be extended again 😬

To register and for more information: https://na.eventscloud.com/website/90486/home/

17/01/2026

I watched “Seen The Film” and found it quietly wonderful.

This isn’t heavy or confronting viewing. It’s gentle, warm, and deeply relatable — the kind of film that reflects everyday parenting moments back to you with compassion. It captures how much children need to feel seen, and how powerful ordinary presence can be.

From a breastfeeding and perinatal care perspective, it aligns beautifully with what we know supports families best: connection, attunement, and safety — not perfection, not fixing, just being with.

I would genuinely recommend this film to all parents. It’s accessible, affirming, and leaves you feeling steadier rather than overwhelmed.

15/01/2026

Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine board meeting, holiday style 😁 🏖️