Welcome to the Perinatal Professionals Series as presented on the Evolve Lactation Podcast! This series provides access to strategic, evidence-based lactation education for perinatal professionals who are ready to level up their breastfeeding support skills and knowledge.

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Summary

In this episode, I explore the critical importance of exclusive human milk feeding in the first 100 hours after birth, discussing its health outcomes for both infants and mothers. I emphasize the need for parents to be empowered with information and support to navigate the challenges of breastfeeding, highlighting the long-term benefits and the importance of early experiences in building confidence and resilience in breastfeeding practices.

Takeaways

Identify three health outcomes impacted by exclusive human milk feeding.

Empower parents with information before and after birth.

Breastfeeding is the physiological norm, not a special choice.

Protection from infection is a key outcome of breastfeeding.

Lactation decreases risks of cancer and metabolic diseases in mothers.

Mental health benefits are significant for both infants and parents.

Focus on tangible outcomes in the first 100 hours of breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding and human milk feeding build self-confidence and resilience in new parents.

Improving breastfeeding experiences is crucial, rather than suggesting to stop.

Thanks for listening!

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If you’re thinking “I don’t know what a Rogerian ontology is,” fear not. I didn’t know either until my very special guest, Olena Dobczansky explained it all to me in this episode of the Evolve Lactation Podcast.

Yes, that’s right: the podcast is back! I’m very excited to launch Season 4 with this amazing episode.

If you like to talk about, study, read about, and generally think about breastfeeding, this episode is for you!

Settle in and listen, and when you’re done, if you want to share your feedback, I’ve got just the place for you: The Evolve Lactation Community on Circle.

Join for free right here and let’s get the conversation spreading!

You can also find me and Olena on LinkedIn:

Christine Staricka

Olena Dobczansky

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Christine Staricka and Olena Dobczansky explore the complexities of breastfeeding and lactation, emphasizing the importance of clear definitions, the impact of commercial interests, and the need for personalized care in maternal health. Olena shares her journey as a clinician and the development of her Rogerian ontology of breastfeeding, which seeks to clarify the distinctions between breastfeeding and lactation. The discussion highlights the challenges faced by new mothers, the role of technology, and the necessity for healthcare professionals to communicate effectively and empathetically with their patients.

Chapters and Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Olena Dobczansky

02:52 The Journey of a Lifelong Learner

05:59 Navigating Information Overload in Maternal Health

08:54 Introducing the Rogerian Ontology of Breastfeeding

11:58 The Importance of Language in Lactation

15:11 Distinguishing Between Breastfeeding and Lactation

17:49 Challenges in Postpartum Care

20:57 The Role of Technology in Breastfeeding Support

23:55 Understanding the Dyad: Mother and Baby Dynamics

27:02 The Impact of Commercial Interests on Breastfeeding

30:06 The Need for Clear Definitions in Lactation

33:00 Personal Experiences and Their Influence on Practice

36:09 The Future of Breastfeeding Support

38:59 Conclusion and Call to Action

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