Roots Certified Lactation Counselor

12/19/2023

Grateful to have these services near us in Mason City.

Let’s get together so we can talk about how I can help! From education to support, I’m here through it all!!

12/13/2023

Next newsletter comes out 12/20! I will be going over cold and flu treatments that you can take/do that are breastfeeding safe.

Sign up here so you don't miss this one! https://bit.ly/JoleneNewsletter

12/11/2023

Looking for last minute ideas for an expecting mom or breastfeeding family member or friend? I have some ideas for you!

1. A good baby carrier! Baby wearing helps keep baby close to mom and is right where baby wants to be. Mom and baby both benefit from the comfort and closeness of each other. It also frees up moms hands for those other tasks she is taking on. I love the Solly Wrap for early on and my favorite is the Wildbird!

2. A good nursing and pumping bra. It's so nice to have a bra that is nursing and pumping friendly, comfortable and looks nice. Kindred Bravely has some really nice ones to spoil your mama friend.

3. Water Bottle. This may seem pretty simple, but a big win in my book. Breastfeeding will leave moms feeling SO thirsty and staying hydrated helps their supply and overall well being. A big 32oz or more, with a handle, straw, and ability to keep their drink cool.

4. Gift Card for Lactation Consult or Prenatal Education. What better than a Gift Card to for a Lactation Visit or Prenatal Nursing Class. All moms want support and this truly fits that bill. Having this available to them when they are struggling gives them the easy decision to set up a visit rather than try to continue to figure things out on their own.

5. Haaka. I like the Haaka for a variety of reasons, but I do think it is important that it is used in the correct way (more info on this to come!). It is a handy tool to have and a great way to get some milk stored up pretty easily.

Some other smaller ideas include, cotton washable breast pads, ni**le butter, hand pump, Haaka lady bugs (milk catchers), or a gift basket of their favorite snacks and drinks :).

12/05/2023

Here is why you shouldn't be....

Just like anything online, these pump pictures can be very deceiving. The amount you pump can vary so much based on the time of the day and so many other factors.

For example, the amount of milk you pump in the morning in place of a breastfeeding session is going to be much more than the amount you pump around 10pm right before you go to bed. You can thank your hormone prolactin for that.

On average, once our milk starts to regulate, a normal pump session can be anywhere form 2.5-5 ounces total. Overall, we're looking at about 24-32 ounces per day. Research shows that on average breastfed babies take anywhere from 19-30oz of milk per day.

There are so many factors that can play into how much milk your producing:
❤Your baby’s age
❤Amount of time since your last feeding
❤Time of the day
❤Stress and emotional factors
❤Breast milk storage capacity
❤Effectiveness of your pump and adequate fl**ge sizing
❤Exclusive pumping or breastfeeding

Try to focus more on how amazing your body is and what its doing for your baby rather than comparing it to the next breastfeeding photo you see.