Advice and Encouragement with Anna Beth Case, MD
Breastfeeding is a personal journey that can be both rewarding and challenging. For many new parents, the experience comes with many questions and emotions. In a recent interview, Anna Beth Case, MD, with Hattiesburg Clinic Collins Family Practice Clinic, offers practical advice, addresses common misconceptions and encourages parents who may be struggling.
Dr. Case emphasizes that while breastfeeding is a natural process, it doesn’t always come naturally. “Breastfeeding is a journey. It doesn’t come naturally for everybody, and that’s okay. It takes a lot of patience because the baby is trying to learn how to eat, and mom is trying to figure out the new schedule, so it just takes patience,”she explains.
Case emphasizes that it is important for moms to stay hydrated and eat properly because breastfeeding can be very physically draining. She recommends seeking early support from your provider, a pediatrician or a lactation consultant, which can make a big difference. Case explains that there are several online and social groups available where moms come together to offer support and encouragement as a mental resource for each other.
There are many widespread myths and misconceptions about breastfeeding. Case helps to clarify misconceptions, saying, “Probably one of the biggest things is that it just happens, and it doesn’t. It is, you know, trial and error – it is figuring out which position [is best]. Every baby is different, every mom is different.”
Case addresses some misunderstandings about pumping and building a milk supply for the future. She explains that in those first few weeks, the priority is making sure the baby is nourished and helping your body regulate how much milk the baby needs.
From latching difficulties to concerns about milk production, many moms face challenges during their breastfeeding journey. Case reminds families that they are not alone, and that struggling does not mean failure. She also talks about what to look for to know if breastfeeding is going well, or if it may be time to look at other options.
Whether a parent breastfeeds exclusively or supplements with formula, Case reinforces the importance of making the best decision for your baby and your family. “If you do need to supplement, that’s okay,” she explains. “We want babies to be fed, and that’s the most important thing you can do as a parent, is make sure your baby is fed, is gaining weight and is happy.”
Watch the full video to hear more from Dr. Case: https://youtu.be/xIFgFr4AYbc
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About Hattiesburg Clinic Collins Family Practice Clinic:
Hattiesburg Clinic Collins Family Practice Clinic provides comprehensive evaluation and care to meet the total health needs of each family member. These physicians offer prompt, complete assessment of the patient in their home communities and are able to obtain and coordinate consultation with other specialists when necessary. Family physicians receive training in six broad areas of medicine: pediatrics, internal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, psychiatry, surgery and community medicine. Their diverse training allows them to offer continuing, comprehensive care from the newborn to the grandparent.
About Hattiesburg Clinic:
Hattiesburg Clinic is Mississippi’s largest privately-owned, multispecialty clinic. Founded in 1963, Hattiesburg Clinic has expanded to include over 450 physicians and providers, along with 2,500 employees, serving patients across more than 17 counties in Mississippi. Hattiesburg Clinic is committed to being the health care provider of choice in the communities we serve.
