In this episode of Behind the Latch, Margaret Salty shares five new research studies that illuminate how culture, trauma, nutrition, and social support shape breastfeeding experiences around the world. From COVID recovery in Jordan to tribal food taboos in India, seafood during pregnancy, and the complex role of family dynamics—this episode delivers evidence-based insights every IBCLC needs.

Key Studies and Takeaways:

1. “Breastfeeding Experiences of COVID-19 Survivor Multipara Mothers During Pre- and Post-COVID-19: A Comparative Phenomenological Study”

Citation: Abuhammad, S., et al. (2025). BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, 25, 502. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12884-025-07610-3

• Jordanian mothers who had breastfed both before and after COVID described physical, emotional, and supply-related challenges
• Post-infection breastfeeding was harder—many noted early weaning and emotional exhaustion
• Concerns about the vaccine’s impact on milk supply created uncertainty and stress
• Lack of consistent lactation education and mental health support intensified these struggles
• IBCLCs should lead with empathy, normalize emotional challenges post-COVID, and provide clear, compassionate vaccine counseling

2. “Association Between Family Support and Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy in a Cross-Sectional Study”

Citation: Hu, L., He, W., & Zhou, L. (2025). Nursing Open, 12, e70210. https://doi.org/10.1002/nop2.70210

• Study of 217 mothers in China found that greater family support was strongly associated with higher breastfeeding self-efficacy
• However, support from parents or spouses—when controlling or emotionally intense—was linked to lower BSE
• Support from in-laws or hired caregivers (e.g., nannies) showed more positive effects
• IBCLCs should assess not only the presence of support, but its quality and emotional tone
• Family involvement in education is important—but only when it supports maternal autonomy

3. “A Study on Traditional Food Practices and Taboo During Pregnancy and Lactation in Tribal Population of Eastern Gujarat”

Citation: Zaveri, N. H., et al. (2025). Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care, 14(4), 1333–1337. https://doi.org/10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_1505_24

• Focus group study of 80 women revealed extensive food taboos: avoiding “hot,” “cold,” or “heavy” foods, and rejecting colostrum
• Mothers commonly gave goat or cow milk in place of colostrum and consumed restrictive postpartum diets
• Cultural beliefs were shaped by safety concerns, aesthetic ideals, and gender norms
• IBCLCs working in diverse communities must use culturally sensitive language and collaborate with local leaders to reframe harmful myths
• Storytelling and elder involvement are powerful tools in shifting generational norms

4. “Seafood During Pregnancy and Lactation and Child Neurocognitive Development: A Systematic Review”

Citation: O’Connor, L. E., et al. (2025). Advances in Nutrition. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.advnut.2025.100414

• Review of 40 studies showed seafood consumption during pregnancy supports better social-emotional development and adaptability in children
• Verbal intelligence and problem-solving were positively linked to seafood intake in several studies
• No strong evidence for harm at recommended intake levels
• No studies evaluated seafood during lactation—a major research gap
• IBCLCs can reassure families about low-mercury fish and shift the narrative from “avoidance” to nutrient density

Conclusion:

These studies span the globe and affirm one clear truth—breastfeeding doesn’t exist in isolation. It’s shaped by culture, support, recovery, and belief. As IBCLCs, our job is to listen deeply, counsel wisely, and integrate evidence with empathy.

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Credits:

🎙 Hosted by: Margaret Salty

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#BehindTheLatch #BreastfeedingResearch #COVIDandBreastfeeding #SeafoodinPregnancy #FamilySupport #BreastfeedingConfidence #CulturalFoodBeliefs #LactationSupport

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