Breastfeeding & Neurodivergence: Real Talk for Real Parents

By Rebekah Scroggy, RN BSN IBCLC 

Have you ever felt touched out or overstimulated while you were feeding your baby? How about feeling like you are overwhelmed with all of your tasks to do? Don’t worry, you aren’t alone! These can be very common concerns, and for neurodivergent folks they can be even more overwhelming. 

I had the privilege of sitting down with Genny Stiller, founder of the Neurodiverse Lactation Education Center, to discuss the intersection of breastfeeding and neurodivergence. Genny is a leading researcher in this field and has developed the Certified Neurodiverse Lactation Specialist (C-NLS) certification for professionals looking to better support neurodivergent families. (You can watch the full interview here!)

Check out her website here: Neurodivergent Lactation Consultant | Genny Stiller 

What Does Neurodivergence Mean, and How Does It Impact Breastfeeding? 

To fully understand the conversation, it's important to differentiate between neurodiversity and neurodivergence. Genny explains: 

This topic is crucial—1.8 billion women of reproductive age worldwide are diagnosed as neurodivergent, and this number doesn’t include those who have yet to receive an official diagnosis. Many struggle to get diagnosed due to biases in medical research and women’s healthcare. 

Sensory Sensitivities & Breastfeeding 

Breastfeeding can be a sensory overload experience. Genny shares, "There are over 40 sensory triggers every time you sit down to feed the baby." These can include: 

Tips for managing sensory overload: 

✅ Extra breast pads and changes of clothes to manage leaks 

✅ Noise-canceling headphones or white noise machines 

✅ Having a comforting texture nearby, like a sheepskin or soft fabric 

Executive Function & Breastfeeding 

Feeding a baby involves 10-15 steps—which can be overwhelming for a neurodivergent parent. Genny describes the thought process many experience: 

"Should I feed the baby now? Or wait? Oh, I got distracted... What side did I use last? Am I doing this right?" 

To ease decision-making, Genny suggests using a “Now, Next, Later” method: 

➡ Now: Focus on the immediate step (e.g., latch the baby) 

➡ Next: The upcoming step (e.g., burping or switching sides) 

➡ Later: Future tasks (e.g., washing pump parts) 

Communication Challenges 

Parenting requires constant communication, which can be especially challenging for neurodivergent individuals. Overload can lead to speech shutdowns or difficulty expressing needs. Genny suggests alternative communication methods: 

📌 Writing a list for partners or support systems 

📌 Using text messages instead of verbal conversations 

📌 Leaving reminders or sticky notes on the fridge 

Mental Health & Neurodivergent Parents 

Breastfeeding doesn’t cause mental health issues, but lack of support and sleep can exacerbate existing conditions like anxiety, depression, OCD, or ADHD. Neurodivergent individuals are often told they are "too sensitive," making it harder to seek help. Genny’s mantra? 

🧠 "When in doubt, check it out." If something feels overwhelming, reach out for support. 

How Can Partners & Family Support Neurodivergent Parents? 

Partners and family members can provide meaningful support by: 

💬 Respecting non-verbal communication (texting, written lists, emails) 

🚫 Respecting boundaries, even if they don’t understand them 

📌 Using fridge lists for requests to avoid miscommunication 

Many neurodivergent parents have struggled with boundary-setting their entire lives. Genny explains, "People have said your boundaries aren’t valid for so long, which makes it even harder to enforce them." 

One tip: Send boundary-setting texts or emails rather than having stressful in-person conversations. 

Workplace Accommodations for Neurodivergent Parents 

While the ADA provides limited protection for neurodivergent employees, the PUMP Act in the U.S. guarantees a private space for pumping. 

Tips for making pumping more sensory-friendly: 

🎧 Noise-canceling headphones 

🌿 Peppermint oil to block strong workplace smells 

👶 Comfort textures (e.g., baby’s onesie, soft blanket) 

Advice for Overwhelmed Neurodivergent Parents 

Breastfeeding as a neurodivergent parent can feel overwhelming. Genny’s advice? 

🗣 "I hear you. I see you. It feels hard, but you’re not alone. There are knowledgeable lactation consultants who will support you." 

Finding a judgment-free provider who understands neurodivergence can make all the difference. 

Resources & Support for Neurodivergent Parents 

Online Communities 

📌 Autistic Breastfeeding, Chestfeeding, and Bodyfeeding Parents 

📌 Judgment-Free Breastfeeding and Pumping Support with Ceres Chill 

📌 NeuroSpicy IBCLCs (For Professionals) 

Books & Education 

📖 When Breastfeeding Sucks by Zainab Yate 

📖 Autistic and Expecting by Alexis Quinn [Amazon link] 

🎓 Certified Neurodivergent Lactation Specialist Course 

Final Thoughts 

Genny’s final message? 

🧠 "Neurodivergent individuals experience life at a higher intensity, and lactation is no exception. That’s why we do this work—to provide the support they deserve." 

If you take away one thing from this conversation, let it be this: You matter, and your voice matters. 

💡 Follow us on YouTube for more content and behind-the-scenes looks at Ceres Chill! 

Until next time, 

Rebekah