Southern Lactation Services, LLC

09/04/2026

💙 Babies Aren't Born Dirty 💙

One of the biggest misconceptions about newborns is that they need a bath immediately after birth.

The truth? Babies aren't born dirty.

That creamy white coating on their skin, called vernix, is incredible. It helps protect your baby's skin, keeps them warm, and even has antibacterial properties.

Research has shown that delaying a newborn's first bath for at least 24 hours (or longer when possible) offers several benefits:

✨ Helps regulate baby's temperature and blood sugar
✨ Supports successful breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact
✨ Preserves the protective vernix on baby's skin
✨ Reduces stress for newborns as they adjust to life outside the womb
✨ Encourages bonding between baby and parents

The first hours after birth are precious. Instead of rushing to bathe your baby, spend that time cuddling, bonding, and getting breastfeeding off to a great start.

💙 As a lactation consultant, I'm a big advocate for uninterrupted skin-to-skin contact and delaying routine procedures whenever medically appropriate. Those early moments can make a big difference for breastfeeding success.

Did you delay your baby's first bath? How old was your little one when they had their first bath?

💙👶🛁

09/03/2026

📣 Upcoming FREE Safe Sleep Classes available for expecting parents and families with newborns.

🩵 These classes provide important, lifesaving information about safe sleep practices and offer eligible participants a FREE Pack ‘n
Play to help ensure every baby has a safe place to sleep.

🩷 If you or someone you know is expecting or has recently welcomed a baby, we encourage you to attend one of our upcoming events and take advantage of this valuable community resource.

💛 Together, we can continue promoting safe sleep, healthy beginnings, and safer futures for families across our community.

09/03/2026

❓ Let's Talk Breastfeeding!

What's been your biggest breastfeeding challenge?

A. Latching issues B. Milk supply concerns C. Pumping and returning to work D. Sore ni***es E. Other (tell us below!)

Drop your answer in the comments 👇

Your question may be exactly what another mom needs answered too!

09/02/2026

Happy Workplace Lactation Week! Our New Beginnings blog this week features a mom’s thoughts about improved Lactation Room signs. Read it here: https://lllusa.org/workplace-lactation-week-what-the-sign-should-have-said/

09/02/2026

💙 Worried You Can't Afford Lactation Support? 💙

Breastfeeding support should be accessible to every family.

If you've been struggling with latch issues, milk supply concerns, pumping, or simply need reassurance, cost shouldn't be the reason you go without support.

At Southern Lactation Services, I offer a sliding scale for in-office visits because I believe every parent deserves compassionate, evidence-based lactation care.

✨ You may also qualify for the Lactation Access Sliding Scale Grant, which can help make lactation services even more affordable.

🔗 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScZc93tjyL7YHyRG6DZC_FfZfqiJ4b5U67Lltie-06Ga39Cyw/viewform?pli=1

Please don't hesitate to reach out if you've been putting off getting help because of financial concerns. Let's talk about your options and find a solution that works for your family.

🤱 Support is available. 💙 You are not alone. 💙 Your breastfeeding goals matter.

💙

09/02/2026

09/01/2026

💛 One of the most important breastfeeding skills to know before a storm is hand expression.

Power outages can happen. Pumps can lose power. You may not have access to your pump. And your baby may not always be with you, whether you're at work or being cared for by a family member.

Knowing how to hand express milk can help you continue removing milk when breastfeeding or pumping isn't possible.

Hand expression can: ✅ Help relieve engorgement
✅ Support milk production when you're away from your baby
✅ Allow you to collect milk without a pump
✅ Provide a backup plan during emergencies and power outages

💛 Don't wait until a hurricane is approaching the Gulf to learn hand expression. Practice beforehand so you're prepared if power outages, evacuations, or unexpected separations occur.
✨ Your breasts don't know there's a hurricane. They still need milk removal to help maintain your supply.

At Southern Lactation Services, we can help you learn hand expression prepare for hurricane season with confidence.

📞 Call or message Michelle for support.

09/01/2026

💚 NICU Awareness Month 💚

When I was pregnant, I never imagined my babies would need the NICU.

Like many parents, I knew the NICU existed, but I thought, "That won't happen to me. That only happens to other families."

Then both of my boys were born at 37 weeks and were admitted to the NICU.

I was scared, overwhelmed, and completely unprepared for the emotional rollercoaster that followed. Nothing can truly prepare you for leaving the hospital without your baby in your arms.

Both of my boys spent 8 days in the NICU. Those days felt endless, filled with worry, hope, and countless prayers. While we were grateful for the amazing care they received, being separated from them was one of the hardest things I've ever experienced.

💚 September is NICU Awareness Month, a time to honor NICU babies, celebrate their strength, and recognize the resilience of the families who walk this journey every day.

Whether your baby spent 1 day, 8 days, or 100+ days in the NICU, your story matters. The challenges, victories, tears, and triumphs become a part of who you are as a parent.

📸 These are my boys in the photos below during their NICU stays.

💚 I'd love for you to share a photo of your little one and tell us about your NICU journey in the comments.

How long was your baby in the NICU?

💚

08/31/2026

Delayed Milk Coming In?
Understanding the Risk Factors Can Change the Outcome 💛

The onset of mature milk production can sometimes be delayed, especially when certain risk factors are present.

Common risk factors include:
✨ PCOS
✨ Gestational diabetes
✨ Prolonged labor or induction
✨ Cesarean birth
✨ Significant blood loss after delivery
✨ Insulin resistance or obesity

Recognizing these risk factors before or shortly after birth allows families to take proactive steps to support milk production and ensure baby is feeding well.

A delayed milk onset isn't a failure. It's a sign that your body may need additional support and a personalized plan.

If you're concerned about your milk coming in, don't wait to seek help. Early intervention can help protect your milk supply and support your feeding goals.

🤍 Southern Lactation Services is here to help. Call or message Michelle today to schedule an appointment. We accept select insurance plans and offer a sliding-scale payment option for families whose insurance is not accepted. We also offer lactation bundle packages for ongoing support throughout your breastfeeding journey.

You don't have to navigate feeding challenges alone. We're here to support you every step of the way.

08/31/2026

🤱 Breastfeeding Myth vs. Fact

❌ MYTH: If your baby wants to nurse often, you're not making enough milk.

✅ FACT: Frequent feeding is normal, especially during growth spurts. Babies nurse for nutrition, comfort, and connection.

If you're worried about your milk supply, you're not alone. Many moms have the same concern, and support can make all the difference.

✨ Need personalized guidance? I'm here to help you reach your feeding goals with confidence.