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Lactational Hemorrhagic Ductal Ectasia and Common Causes of Blood in Breast Milk
Seeing blood in expressed breast milk can be alarming. A bottle that looked creamy a few minutes ago may turn pink, orange, brown, or even reddish. It can happen during the early days of lactation, after a long pumping session, with nipple damage, or when a milk duct becomes irritated. Most small amounts of blood in breast milk come from benign, temporary causes. Still, bleeding deserves attention, especially if it is heavy, painful, one-sided, or keeps coming back. This arti

Cleo Marchese, BS, IBCLC, RLC
Aug 319 min read


Effective Pumping Protocols for Non-Breastfeeding Babies
When a baby does not breastfeed immediately after birth, parents often face stress and uncertainty. Breastfeeding is widely recommended for its health benefits, but some newborns may struggle to latch or feed right away due to various reasons such as prematurity, medical conditions, or maternal challenges. In these cases, pumping protocols become essential to maintain milk supply and provide breastmilk for your baby. This guide offers clear, practical steps to help parents es

Cleo Marchese, BS, IBCLC, RLC
Jul 243 min read


Understanding Nipple Blanching and Vasospasms
Breastfeeding is a beautiful yet complex journey that sometimes comes with challenges. One such issue that nursing mothers might face is nipple blanching and vasospasms, which can be concerning and painful if not understood and managed properly. What is Nipple Blanching? Nipple blanching occurs when reduced blood flow causes the nipple to turn white, typically after feeding. This can be linked to latch or compression issues, and while it may not always be painful, it can some

Cleo Marchese, BS, IBCLC, RLC
Jun 122 min read


Is It CMPA, Lactose Intolerance, or Just Normal Baby Stuff? Here's How to Tell
One of the most common questions I hear from worried mamas — and the answer might surprise you. If you've ever Googled your baby's symptoms at 2am — green poop, fussy feeding, skin rashes — and ended up in a spiral of scary results, first of all: I see you. You're not alone. And second: let's slow down, because most of what shows up in those searches is way more alarming than what's actually going on with your baby. As an IBCLC, I work with breastfeeding families every day, a

Cleo Marchese, BS, IBCLC, RLC
May 315 min read


Essential Guide to Proper Hand Placement for Latching Your Newborn
Breastfeeding can be a rewarding experience, but getting your newborn to latch properly is often a challenge. One key factor that many new parents overlook is hand placement during latching . Proper hand positioning supports your baby and helps them latch deeply and comfortably, which can prevent nipple pain and ensure your baby gets enough milk. Many mothers struggle with hand placement on the baby's head and their breast. Often having fingers covering most of the areola or

Cleo Marchese, BS, IBCLC, RLC
Apr 84 min read


Understanding Lactation: Key Terms and Concepts Every New Parent Should Know
Breastfeeding, though natural, is a learned skill that you should have seen your entire life. For most women, the first baby they see breastfeeding is their own. When problems arise, you may hear unfamiliar terminology and concepts essential for new mothers to understand about breastfeeding. This knowledge boosts confidence in supporting your baby’s nutrition and health. This post covers important lactation ideas, from the initial milk to common challenges and your body's res

Cleo Marchese, BS, IBCLC, RLC
Mar 254 min read


Corporate vs. Independent Lactation Care: What Every New Mother Should Know Before Accepting Breastfeeding Support in the Hospital
Bringing a new baby into the world comes with countless decisions — many of which happen quickly while you are recovering from birth. One choice that often goes unnoticed is who provides your lactation care while you are still in the hospital. In many hospitals today, breastfeeding support is no longer handled exclusively by hospital staff. Instead, hospitals may partner with large corporate lactation providers who function as independent medical contractors. Understanding

Cleo Marchese, BS, IBCLC, RLC
Mar 184 min read


Can Mothers Choose Their Lactation Care Provider? Understanding Your Rights Under the Affordable Care Act and Texas Law
For many new parents, breastfeeding support is essential to a healthy start. Yet confusion often arises about who provides that care — especially when hospitals contract with corporate lactation providers. The good news is that federal law and state policies support access to lactation services and protect a mother’s ability to obtain covered care from qualified providers, many in the privacy of your own home. Below is what families in Texas should know. Affordable Care Act:

Cleo Marchese, BS, IBCLC, RLC
Feb 43 min read


Exclusively Pumping: A Comprehensive Guide to Successful and Sustained Breast Milk Expression
Exclusive pumping, also known as EPing, is a feeding option for parents who choose or need to provide breast milk without directly...

Cleo Marchese, BS, IBCLC, RLC
Sep 10, 20254 min read


Help! My Baby Won’t Take a Bottle
It can be super stressful to plan returning to work or have a situation such as a medical condition where you need to be routinely...

Cleo Marchese, BS, IBCLC, RLC
Apr 28, 20254 min read


Inconsolable Crying and Other Red Flags: When to Seek Help from a Lactation Consultant
Breastfeeding can be one of the most rewarding experiences of motherhood, but it is not without its challenges. New mothers often...

Cleo Marchese, BS, IBCLC, RLC
Mar 13, 20254 min read


Keeping Your Baby Safe and Snug: Essential Winter Safety Tips
So, you have a new baby and wonder what to do in the winter. How should you dress the baby, and what should you let the baby sleep in? ...

Cleo Marchese, BS, IBCLC, RLC
Feb 14, 20253 min read


The Unspoken Secrets to Breastfeeding Success
Breastfeeding is often celebrated as a natural and fulfilling experience. However, many mothers find that their breastfeeding journey is...

Cleo Marchese, BS, IBCLC, RLC
Oct 21, 20245 min read


Why Didn't Anyone Warn Me? 7 Common Reasons Why Breastfeeding Isn't Working in the First Two Weeks
First-time motherhood is a rollercoaster of emotions, uncertainties, and surprises. Amidst the joys of welcoming a newborn, the...

Cleo Marchese, BS, IBCLC, RLC
Sep 25, 20243 min read


Cracking the Code of Jaundice: What You Need to Know about Hyperbilirubinemia in Newborns
As parents welcome their bundle of joy into the world, it's essential to be informed about various aspects of newborn health, including a...

Cleo Marchese, BS, IBCLC, RLC
Jul 31, 20243 min read


Title: "Understanding the Common Reasons Why Some Babies Struggle with Breastfeeding In Early Days"
You have been eagerly awaiting the birth of your new baby. The nursery is ready. You and your partner have taken childbirth and...

Cleo Marchese, BS, IBCLC, RLC
Jun 30, 20244 min read


Overcoming Breastfeeding Challenges: A Guide to Empowerment
Breastfeeding, a beautiful yet challenging journey that many mothers embark upon. The bond created during this precious time is...

Cleo Marchese, BS, IBCLC, RLC
May 28, 20242 min read


Managing Engorgement: Tips for new mothers
Help with engorgement is probably the number one early breastfeeding call lactation consultants receive. The first few days after birth,...

Cleo Marchese, BS, IBCLC, RLC
Apr 29, 20244 min read
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