The Truth About Breastfeeding with Dr. Caitlin Porter

There’s nothing like the emotional rollercoaster of new motherhood — equal parts of sweet snuggles, sleep deprivation, and, as we know, endless learning. Dr. Caitlin Porter knows it well. Between her own NICU journey with her son and her work as a family medicine physician at Baker Primary Care Center, she’s seen it all: the triumphs, the tears, and all those lactation cookie recipes.

During a recent virtual health talk on breastfeeding, Dr. Porter shared both personal reflections and professional advice to help new moms navigate the beauty (and sometimes chaos) of feeding their babies.

The many ways to feed a baby

Breast milk is one of the most remarkable things a body can produce. “It changes with your baby’s age, illness, and even the time of day,” Dr. Porter explained. “Milk pumped at night actually has melatonin in it. Your body knows it’s bedtime.” Each drop of breastmilk is packed with antibodies, white blood cells, vitamins, healthy fats, and even stem cells that help build your baby’s brain and immune system.

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to feeding. Some moms nurse, some pump, and others use formula, and all of them are doing the right thing for their families. “You don’t have to nurse to breastfeed,” Dr. Porter said. “Pumping counts. Combo feeding counts. Donor milk counts. If you give your baby breast milk, in any way, you are breastfeeding.”

As for formula, Dr. Porter is clear: it’s not “less than.” Formula is a safe, nourishing option to keep your baby healthy. “You do what’s best for your child and your family,” she said. “Breast milk is amazing, but if it’s causing turmoil, stress, or guilt, it’s not what’s best anymore. Feeding your baby should never come with shame.”

The myths and milk colors

If you’ve ever looked at a bottle of pumped milk and thought something was wrong with it — think again. “Breast milk can come in every color of the rainbow,” Dr. Porter explained. “Blue, yellow, green, even pink or brown. If you’re nursing, you never see it, but if you pump, you can see the color clearly.” Those color changes are usually harmless and can reflect what you’ve eaten, how hydrated you are, or even where you are in your feeding journey. Curious what each color means? You’ll have to watch our health talk to learn more!

Lactation cookies and milk supply

Yes, “lactation cookies” are a real thing. “They’re delicious,” Dr. Porter said, “but there’s no solid evidence they boost [milk] supply. Supply is all about demand. Your body makes milk because you’re telling it to, either by nursing or pumping. But oatmeal and chia seed cookies can be a great snack at 2:00 a.m. [when feeding].”

When it comes to increasing milk supply, Dr. Porter keeps expectations real. “There’s no magic pill,” she said. “It’s all about the demand. Whether that is feeding, pumping, or both. Power pumping can help, and hydration is huge.”

Support, not pressure

Breastfeeding isn’t always picture-perfect. “It’s not uncommon for moms to feel touched out, anxious, or even sometimes resentful when their baby wants to nurse,” Dr. Porter shared. “That’s common, but it’s not something to ignore. Sometimes the best thing for your baby is a happy, rested mom.” Her advice is: take care of yourself, too. “If you need to hand off a bottle and rest, do it,” she said. “You’re still doing an amazing job.”

Dr. Porter believes the key to a positive breastfeeding experience is support — not perfection or pressure to do things a certain way. “Breastfeeding is natural, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy,” she said. “There’s no wrong way to love your baby. Our goal is to offer support, not add stress.”

Dr. Porter sees both moms and babies at Baker Primary Care Center in Linville, NC. To schedule an appointment with her, call 828 737-7711.

To watch Dr. Porter's Health Talk, click the video link below.