Ileana Berrios, MS, IBCLC
As we celebrate Latina X Breastfeeding Week this September, I had the pleasure of speaking with Juana Rodríguez, a seasoned International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) based in Southwest Florida. Juana has supported families in their breastfeeding journeys since 1995, providing care in their homes. She shared her passion for helping parents and why she’s dedicated her life to this important work.
Juana’s commitment to supporting Latina families in the U.S. is evident. As she told me, her role extends beyond breastfeeding support; she’s a guide through various parenting stages, from pregnancy to weaning and everything in between. For Juana, helping families isn’t just about the breastfeeding mechanics and offering emotional and practical support. “I love the joy it brings me,” she says, “when I see families remember me from years ago because I was there to help them when they needed it.”
The Importance of Latina X Breastfeeding Week
When I asked Juana what Latina X Breastfeeding Week means, she explained its origin: “It was started by a coalition of Latina lactation consultants who saw the need to share our experiences. Latina moms often find themselves far from their abuelitas or comadres, who would traditionally offer breastfeeding advice and support. Here in the U.S., that support system isn’t always readily available.” Latina X Breastfeeding Week, celebrated after Labor Day, allows Latina mothers to connect and see that they are not alone.
Juana emphasized that while all women breastfeed around the world, Latina moms in the U.S. often face unique cultural and linguistic barriers. Latina X Breastfeeding Week helps bridge this gap, providing a sense of community and cultural understanding vital during the postpartum period.
Why Celebrate Different Breastfeeding Weeks?
Some might wonder why we need separate weeks to celebrate different cultural breastfeeding groups, and Juana responded perfectly. “We need to be in our own community, in our own tribe. Americans have traditionally been raised in a culture of individualism, but we rely on our community in many Latina cultures. That’s why it’s important for us to support our people, to speak the same language, and to understand the cultural nuances that make a big difference in the breastfeeding journey.”
Breaking Down Cultural Barriers
As a lactation consultant, Juana understands how crucial it is to connect with families in their own language. “When a Latina mom hears me speak Spanish, I see the relief wash over her face. She doesn’t have to struggle to find the words in English; she can express herself freely. This connection allows us to get to the heart of her breastfeeding challenges, and she feels truly seen and supported.”
This cultural connection also helps to break down common myths and misconceptions about breastfeeding. Juana recounted how she often hears Latina families being told not to eat beans or certain foods postpartum. “I remind them they were eating these foods while pregnant, so why stop now?” Juana, who has a background in food science and nutrition, uses her knowledge to explain the importance of traditional foods while respecting cultural practices.
A Celebration of Culture and Empowerment
Latina X Breastfeeding Week is a time to celebrate the unique cultural experiences of Latina moms and the dedicated professionals like Juana who support them. It’s also an opportunity to empower Latina families by providing them with evidence-based breastfeeding support in a culturally sensitive way. “Latina families often don’t get the support they need in the healthcare field,” Juana explains. “That’s why this week is so important – to show that we’re here, understand, and can help.”
Juana’s message to all Latina moms this week is simple: You are not alone. Whether navigating breastfeeding for the first time, returning to work or school, or even preparing to wean, resources and support systems are in place to help you succeed.
Where to Find Support
Juana offers her services as The Lactation Whisperer, helping families in Southwest Florida. You can find her at http://lactationwhisperer.com, where she provides consultations covered by health insurance plans. “I always like to speak with the family before booking an appointment,” she says. “If I can’t help them, I’ll refer them to another Latina lactation consultant who can.”
As we celebrate Latina X Breastfeeding Week, let’s acknowledge the importance of culturally sensitive lactation support. It’s not just about feeding babies; it’s about honoring traditions, building community, and empowering families to thrive. Thank you, Juana, for your dedication to the Latina community and for continuing to inspire future generations of breastfeeding families.
Happy Latina X Breastfeeding Week!
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