Gulf Coast Breastfeeding Center

12/20/2025

Breastfeeding isn’t just a gift for baby—it’s a gift for the mother, too. Physically, emotionally, and spiritually it weaves a bond that can last a lifetime. 💕

Here’s how that connection works, and what science is revealing:

Emotional & Mental Connection: What Research Says—

Reduced Stress & Anxiety:
Breastfeeding releases oxytocin (“the love hormone”) which helps calm mama’s nervous system and lower stress. Skin-to-skin contact and closeness during nursing also reassure baby and reinforce mutual trust. (PMC)

Lower Risk of Postpartum Depression (PPD):

Many studies show a link between breastfeeding and better maternal mental health outcomes. In a review of 36 studies, 29 found that breastfeeding was associated with fewer symptoms of postpartum depression or anxiety. (PubMed)

That said, the relationship is complex—some moms struggle when their expectations don’t match reality, or when they face breastfeeding challenges. (PubMed+1)

Bidirectional Relationship With Mental Health:
It’s not just that breastfeeding can influence mental health—maternal distress or depression can also interfere with breastfeeding (e.g. less milk let-down, shorter duration) due to hormonal disruption (e.g. impaired oxytocin, elevated cortisol). (PMC+1)

Healing & Psychological Resilience:

For moms who experienced difficult births or early trauma, many describe breastfeeding as a pathway to healing and restoring trust in their bodies. In one study, mothers reporting positive breastfeeding experiences said it helped them bond with their baby and protect their mental well-being. (MDPI)

Support Improves Outcomes:

When mental health and breastfeeding support are both addressed together—through counseling, peer support, lactation guidance—studies show better duration of breastfeeding and improved maternal mood. (BioMed Central)

12/19/2025

We will be closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, NYE and New Years Day. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! ❤️GCBC

12/19/2025

We just wrapped up this years last Childbirth class last night. I've gotten to meet some incredible people and gotten some amazing friendships.

This last class started with 4 couples and ended with 1 still pregnant! I had a mom deliver a baby at 25 weeks. They are both doing amazing but if anyone has some preemie girl clothes they would like to donate please drop them off at the office and I can get them to the mom.

We also had a first time mom that had to call an ambulance and barely made it to the hospital in time! Unfortunately dad missed the birth. They are all doing amazing 👏

I just wanted to say thank you too all the couples who trust in GCBC for not only Clinical Lactation services but knowledge beyond.

We hope to meet some amazing couples next year!

12/17/2025

Our giveaway winner isssss…….. Isabella Simmons!!!!! 🥰🥰🥰🥰 Message us to claim!

12/16/2025

Amid the holiday chaos—between the family gatherings, the travel, and the long to-do lists—those quiet nursing moments become your pause, your peace, your reminder of what truly matters. 🌙💛
Breastfeeding isn’t just about feeding; it’s a reset for both mama and baby. Even in the busiest seasons, these moments help ground you both because:
🌿 Oxytocin (the “love hormone”) is released during breastfeeding, calming mama’s mind and baby’s body.
💞 It strengthens connection. Nursing slows everything down, reminding you of your baby’s rhythm and needs.
🕯 It creates consistency. Even if you’re away from home or surrounded by noise, that nursing moment feels familiar and safe.
💤 It encourages rest. Night feedings often feel still and sacred—those half-asleep cuddles can be some of the sweetest memories.
💗 It offers perspective. While the world moves fast, breastfeeding reminds us to be present—right here, right now—with the little one who needs us most.

12/15/2025

# IS CLOSED # #

Who doesn’t love a Christmas giveaway?!

Enter to win this bundle Maranda curated from local small businesses perfect for mom and baby!

•LIKE•SHARE•TAG A MOM•

Giveaway will close Dec 15. Winner announced Dec 16!!!

In this giveaway bundle:
Lollie + Pop (Bay St Louis) Christmas outfit and $50 gift card

$50 to Coffee Y’all Espresso

Two crocheted lovies from Stitch N Smile

(Not pictured):
$200 gift card to Revive and Thrive

$200 gift card to Blue Moon Photography

Signed book from Lauren Holder
"The Little Farmer on Madison Farms"

12/12/2025

Breastmilk isn’t “just milk.” It’s living, changing, and perfectly designed for your baby’s needs. Here’s what science continues to unwrap:

Antibodies – Help protect your baby from viruses, bacteria, and infections.

Stem Cells – Support healing and growth in your baby’s developing body.

DHA & Omega-3s – Promote brain and nervous system development.

White Blood Cells – Strengthen your baby’s immune defense.

Hydration & Electrolytes – Keep baby balanced and nourished.

Hormones – Boost bonding, relaxation, and milk production.

Customized Nutrition – Your milk changes daily to meet your baby’s exact needs.

Cancer-Fighting Properties – Studies show protective effects against breast and ovarian cancer in mothers, and lower leukemia rates in babies.
It truly is nature’s most perfect design—alive, intelligent, and always evolving.

12/10/2025

We are hosting a cookie swap next Wednesday, December 17 at 10am for our MILC meeting! Come with a dozen cookies and a Tupperware 🎁

12/09/2025

Breastfeeding is a gift that lasts far beyond the baby stage. It’s not just nourishment in the moment—it’s an investment in long-term health and connection for both mama and baby. 🍼💞

For Moms: Breastfeeding has been linked to lower risks of breast and ovarian cancers, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.

For Babies: Research shows breastfed babies have lower risks of infections, allergies, and even childhood leukemia.

For Both: It strengthens emotional bonds, reduces stress, and promotes lifelong well-being.

Every feed, every pump, every drop—it all matters.

12/06/2025

Bonfire is still on for TOMORROW! Sunday the 7th! 🔥 bring your chairs, blankets and jackets!

UPDATE!! We have moved the bonfire FROM Dec 6 TO Dec 7 due to forecasted rain. Please note the change!! This graphic is updated as well as the original post in the caption.

Don’t forget your jackets, chairs and blankets!

12/05/2025

This season is all about giving—and few gifts are more powerful than the gift of nourishment.
Breastmilk is a true miracle of nature—filled with antibodies, nutrients, and healing properties that can’t be replicated. For some babies, especially preemies or medically fragile infants, donated breastmilk can be lifesaving. 🍼💙

If you’ve ever found yourself with an abundant supply, consider donating to a certified milk bank. It’s a safe, screened, and deeply meaningful way to help other families in need. Every ounce you give can change a life. 🌿

We also want to remind families that while it’s beautiful to share, informal milk sharing (between friends or online groups) can carry risks if milk isn’t properly screened, stored, or handled. Always:
✅ Work with an accredited milk bank when possible.
✅ Ask about screening and pasteurization processes.
✅ Store and transport milk safely.