Navigating Baby Loss

·E130

130: When You Still Make Milk But Don’t Have a Baby

February 12
17 mins

Episode Description

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In this raw and important conversation, I sit down with Amber Ginn from The Latch Link—a virtual lactation practice that helps moms navigate feeding in all its forms. Amber shares her journey from teen mom to IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant), and how her early breastfeeding experience lit a fire to support other moms—especially those facing challenges.

But we’re not just talking about the typical feeding journey. We’re talking about what happens when you leave the hospital without your baby—and your milk still comes in.

We cover the brutal, often silent part of postpartum grief: the physical pain and emotional toll of breast milk after baby loss. Amber walks us through what’s normal, what’s not, and how to care for your breasts gently and safely. Whether you’re choosing to suppress your milk, considering donation, or just trying to survive the letdowns (literal and emotional), this episode will make you feel seen, supported, and a little less alone.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

  • Why your milk comes in even if your baby isn’t here
  • What no one tells you about engorgement, pain, and mastitis after loss
  • How to gently suppress lactation without hurting your body
  • The truth about breast binding and what to avoid
  • What to expect with clogged ducts, cracked nipples, or flu-like symptoms
  • When to seek medical attention (and what to watch for)
  • The emotional complexity of milk donation—and why it’s okay to say no
  • How lactation consultants can support loss moms (yes, even you)

Resources Mentioned:

https://navigatingbabyloss.com/workshop

Free workshop for moms grieving stillbirth or pregnancy loss. Learn simple, trauma-informed practices to release guilt, calm the what-ifs, and honor your baby's memory with love instead of pain. Includes bonus Grief & Guilt Release Journal.


Download my FREE "Guilt and Grief Release Journal" at navigatingbabyloss.com/journal

WHERE TO FIND AND FOLLOW ME!



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