For many new moms, the postpartum period is a whirlwind of emotions, and breastfeeding can often amplify those feelings. That\u2019s something Le\u00e1ndri van der Berg understands intimately, not only as a Certified Lactation Support Provider, but also as a mom who\u2019s walked that path herself.<\/p>\n
\u201cSupport was what helped me cope with being a first-time mom,\u201d says Le\u00e1ndri. \u201cEspecially with breastfeeding, as it can feel like such a lonely time.\u201d<\/p>\n
Her own experience sparked a passion that became a career, helping other mothers feel supported, seen, and empowered during one of life\u2019s most vulnerable stages.<\/p>\n
Le\u00e1ndri believes that being informed can make all the difference. \u201cConfidence is often the biggest challenge for first-time moms,\u201d she explains. \u201cWe doubt our bodies, especially when baby cries or is clingy – we assume we\u2019re doing something wrong.\u201d Her top tip? Get prepared. \u201cGo to classes, read up, and find a support group. Being surrounded by women on a similar journey can be incredibly reassuring.\u201d<\/p>\n
She also highlights the importance of a good latch. \u201cA pain-free latch is vital. If you\u2019re in pain or not seeing baby actively suckling and swallowing, something needs to be checked.\u201d When milk supply is a concern, she encourages moms to determine whether this true or perceived. \u201cOften, low supply is due to too long stretches between feeds, poor latching, or even oral tethers. A consultation can help uncover the cause.\u201d<\/p>\n
When it comes to milk storage, especially for moms returning to work, Le\u00e1ndri shares practical advice: \u201cUse sterilised containers, and store milk at the back of the fridge or freezer, away from raw items. Never mix milk of different temperatures, and thaw safely – not in the microwave or unsealed on the counter.\u201d She also recommends keeping a simple storage guide nearby for quick reference.<\/p>\n
At the heart of her work is a message of reassurance: no matter your feeding journey, breast, bottle, or both, you\u2019re doing your best. \u201cMotherhood isn\u2019t one-size-fits-all,\u201d she says. \u201cFind your tribe, ask for help, and be gentle with yourself.\u201d<\/p>\n
One way Le\u00e1ndri supports breastfeeding moms is through her WhatsApp support group – a nurturing space she has led for almost a decade. There, moms can ask questions, share their struggles and wins, and simply connect. Through her group, in-person consultations, and community events like the Heavenly High Tea, she continues to create spaces where moms feel held, heard, and supported.<\/p>\n
Text: Sazly Moses <\/strong>Photo: Gypseenia Lion <\/strong>Styled by: Image Consultant & Stylist, Teneil Vorster and Re-Define Image<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Le\u00e1ndri is committed to creating spaces where moms can be real and raw, without fear of judgment. Everyone\u2019s journey is different, and that\u2019s perfectly okay. Even though she specialises in lactation, she loves creating safe spaces for moms to just be. For many new moms, the postpartum period is a whirlwind of emotions, and breastfeeding […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":124,"featured_media":19649,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[21,40],"tags":[8199,8200,8198,8201],"class_list":{"0":"post-19636","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-kids","8":"category-people","9":"tag-certified-lactation-support-provider","10":"tag-image-consultant-stylist","11":"tag-motherhood-meets-compassion-with-leandri-van-der-berg","12":"tag-teneil-vorster-and-re-define-image"},"yoast_head":"\n