This week on The Milk, we’re getting into the breastfeeding conversation so many moms wish they had before baby arrives.

I’m joined by Shelly Jacobs, a Newport Beach–based board certified lactation consultant, founder of Lolo Baby, and creator of online programs for moms. Shelly breaks down what a lactation consultant actually does, when to reach out for support, and how they can help make breastfeeding feel less overwhelming and more doable.

We talk through the basics of breastfeeding, common challenges moms face in those early days, tips for building and protecting your milk supply, what to know about pumping, and the simple things that can make a big difference when you’re trying to feed your baby and keep your sanity.

Whether you’re currently breastfeeding, planning to, exclusively pumping, combo feeding, or just trying to understand what support is available, this episode is full of practical, reassuring advice for every mom navigating feeding.

In this episode, we cover:

• What a lactation consultant actually does and when to call one

• How to set yourself up for breastfeeding success before baby arrives

• Common breastfeeding challenges in the early days

• Tips for increasing and protecting milk supply

• Pumping, latching, and feeding support basics

• How to feel more confident and less alone in your feeding journey

You can find Shelly on Instagram at @shellyjacobs_iblc and learn more about her online course Early Milk Matters and breastfeeding sling Lolo Baby

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Ep. 24 Breastfeeding: WTF Is Normal? With Board Certified Lactation Consultant, Shelly Jacobs