Quick note: I'm trying something new with these newsletters - shorter, more focused, more actionable. Let me know what you think!
It's World Breastfeeding Week, and my inbox is absolutely exploding with two things:
- "When does the Postpartum Nutrition Certification open?!"
- "Does breastfeeding really cause postpartum depression?"
Let me tackle both — because they're more connected than you might think.
The Question That's Breaking My Heart
A bit ago, I was at a provider conference when I heard a lactation consultant tell a room full of practitioners: "We need to start being honest — breastfeeding is causing postpartum depression in so many women."
I literally felt my stomach drop.
Because here's what I know after 15 years in this field and working with thousands of mothers: Breastfeeding doesn't cause postpartum depression. But being expected to breastfeed in a culture that offers zero support absolutely can.
This week's podcast episode dives deep into this exact controversy. I break down:
- Why the research actually shows breastfeeding is protective for mental health
- The real culprits behind "breastfeeding depression" (spoiler: it's lack of support, nutrient depletion, and having to pump in closets)
- When breastfeeding genuinely can trigger mental health struggles (DMER, trauma responses)
- How providers can support mothers without shame or pressure
🎧 Listen: "Does Breastfeeding Cause Postpartum Depression?" →
Because this conversation matters. Mothers are suffering, and blaming their biology isn't the answer.
Your Certification Seat is Waiting (But Not for Long)
Speaking of supporting mothers — if you've been waiting for news about the Postpartum Nutrition Certification, here it is:
We're opening enrollment to the waitlist ONLY in September.
And here's the thing: we typically sell out in 48 hours. No joke.
This year's program is now officially accredited, comes with the brand-new 330-page manual in print, and we've expanded payment plans to make it more accessible.
But we're doing something different this time: Everyone planning to enroll needs to complete our Perinatal Mental Health Training first. Consider it your pre-req to the main event.
Your action steps:
- 📝 Join the Waitlist Here → (waitlist members get first access + a discount)
- đź“š Take the Perinatal Mental Health Training
Because the mothers in your practice deserve providers who understand the full picture — not just the nutrition piece, but the mental health piece too.
That's it for this week. Short, focused, and actionable.
The breastfeeding conversation isn't going anywhere. But your ability to support mothers through it? That can change everything.
Stay fierce, stay rooted,
Maranda Bower
CEO & Founder of Postpartum University®
www.PostpartumU.com
