The Triple Feeding Spiral — When “Doing It All” Breaks Everyone Down

Katie James and Johanna Sargeant, IBCLC's dive into one of the most exhausting feeding regimes out there: triple feeding — breastfeeding, pumping, and topping up.

They unpack why so many mums are leaving hospital with these plans, how birth interventions and early weight-loss anxiety often set them up, and what happens when “a few days of help” turns into weeks of burnout.

From hospital protocols to social-media pressure, they explore how triple feeding starts, why it’s meant to be temporary, and the five-day rule that can save sanity and protect breastfeeding.

This conversation is part rant, part rescue plan — grounded in physiology, empathy, and hard-earned experience.

Takeaways

• Triple feeding means breastfeeding + pumping + supplementing.

• It’s designed as a short-term intervention — not a lifestyle.

• Prolonged triple feeding often leads to exhaustion, anxiety, and milk-supply confusion.

• Many mums begin this regime unnecessarily after early weight checks or birth interventions.

• Clinicians must always plan how and when to stop triple feeding before starting it.

• The “five-day rule”: if milk supply and baby’s feeding haven’t improved, change strategy.

• Support plans should include who’s caring for the mother — not just the baby.

For more evidence-based education and resources, visit:

🎓 For professionals: Breastfeeding & Lactation: The Fundamentals

🧠 For advanced professional learning: Decoding the Suck: Gentle Support For Babies with Sucking Difficulties

🛋️ For during pregnancy and new motherhood: The Feeding Couch

📸 Follow Katie on Instagram: @katiejameslactation

▶️ Watch full episodes on YouTube: The Latch Revolution

Subscribe for more evidence-based conversations on infant feeding, lactation, and postpartum care.

Medical Disclaimer

The information in this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individual medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek guidance from your doctor, midwife, lactation consultant, or another qualified health professional regarding your own health or your baby’s care. Katie James and Johanna Sargeant share insights from clinical experience and current research but do not provide personalised medical care through this podcast.