The Feeding Couch
I am a midwife and Lactation Consultant and over the years of working with many families I’ve seen such a variety of feeding journeys and I can tell you that not one of them is the same.
In our worId of perfect portrals of postpartum on social media I feel its time to shine a light on the real stories, raw, uncensored, challenging, triumphant and just plain real life.
Breastfeeding ain't black or white it's a pantone of colours and we need to talk more openly about what really goes on.
The Feeding Couch
Sarah - navigating breastfeeding through a neurodivergent lens - reflux - bed sharing - tandem feeding
In this episode I am joined by Sarah; a mum of soon-to-be three little ones (at the time of recording). She serves as the Head of Research and Education at a leading UK breast cancer charity. And in this episode we're focusing on Sarah's personal journey, navigating the complexities of motherhood and breastfeeding as an autistic woman.
We'll be exploring some deeply personal and impactful experiences, such as how current breastfeeding guidance can interact with compulsive behaviours and routine fixation, and how Sarah managed the challenges of dealing with infant reflux. We'll also discuss those moments when, despite all the advice, she decided to throw the rule book out the window and embrace bed-sharing with her little ones.
Sarah will share her experiences with breastfeeding during pregnancy, the physical effects it can have on the body, and the conversations she's had with healthcare professionals. We'll also touch on the pressure to make feeding and weaning decisions during pregnancy and the often-misunderstood practice of tandem breastfeeding. We'll explore the logistics of feeding babies of different ages, the social taboos that come with it, and the discomfort around the idea that it takes a 'super mum' to handle this.
Throughout it all, Sarah offers a deeply insightful look at the neurodivergent experience of breastfeeding— highlighting the unique ways in which autism for her, shaped her mothering journey. So, whether you're a pregnant, new mum, an advocate, or just curious about the intersection of neurodiversity and motherhood, this episode is for you.
Get 10% off Katie's courses - use code POD10 at checkout
- Pregnant or in the first few weeks after birth: The Feeding Couch
- For health professionals and birth workers: Breastfeeding & Lactation: the fundamentals online course
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Disclaimer
The information provided on this podcast does not, and is not intended to, constitute medical or legal advice; instead, all information available on this site are for general informational purposes only. The Feeding Couch podcast reserves the right to supplement, change or delete any information at any time.
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