Lactation Issues with PCOS

Getting pregnant is just the first of many hurdles people with PCOS face. With higher risks for pregnancy complications and then unforeseen issues after pregnancy like difficulty breastfeeding, it may feel as if the universe is against you. But in this week's episode, we're tackling breastfeeding with PCOS, what complications may arise, and what to do about it.

IS it true that people with PCOS have more issues with milk supply? Why is that and what can we do about it?

What if you had gestational diabetes during your pregnancy, and baby ends up in the NICU for a time while you're sent home? How does THAT impact your plans to breastfeed?

Well, I am in no way a lactation expert, so I invited my friend Megan McMillan to come talk about these issues and more.

Meghan McMillin holds a Master's Degree in Human Nutrition and is also an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). She spent 5 years working clinically in the NICU, pediatric floor, and women's units. In 2019, she started her own business, Mama & Sweet Pea Nutrition, a private nutrition and lactation practice and consulting company that specializes in prenatal, postpartum, and infant care. The mother to two kids with food allergies, helping lactating dyads struggling with food allergies or intolerances is her passion!

I'm so grateful for the opportunity to pick this lactation expert's brain on air... and I know you'll benefit too!

This Week We Talk About:

• Different types of lactation certifications, which type of lactation consultant may be best for your situation, and when to reach out for help
• Common issues that can come up during the process of lactation
• What causes low milk supply in PCOS and how to know in advance if it might be an issue for you
• Why a blood-sugar-balancing diet is key to supporting lactation, especially in PCOS
• Some popular galactagogues (milk promoters) and which have actual evidence supporting their use
• How hormones and hormone imbalances affect lactation
• Which nutrients are most important while breastfeeding — and which ones your body will take from your own stores to prioritize getting those nutrients in your milk
• Lack of societal support for the 4th trimester/postpartum period and how boundaries can help improve your milk supply
• How you can meet your breastfeeding goals even when baby is in the NICU

Mentioned in this episode

PCOS Meal Prep Made Easy Workshop – In this hour-long workshop, I break down what foods you want to include for PCOS and what you may want to consider avoiding or minimizing. Learn my simple 3-step formula for planning meals with PCOS, which includes learning how to eat to balance blood sugar.

Where to find Meghan McMillan, MS, RD, CSP, LDN, IBCLC

Website: Mama & Sweet Pea Nutrition

Instagram: @the.lactation.dietitian