Neurodiversity in Lactation:
How My Family’s Autism Journey Transformed My Approach to Breastfeeding Support
May 27th, 2025
By: Rebekah Scroggy, RN, BSN, IBCLC
1. How has your personal background influenced your approach to lactation care, and what unique perspectives do you bring to the field?
As a new breastfeeding mom, I experienced the overwhelm and anxiety that so many parents face. Early on, I noticed that my son’s development differed from what’s typically expected, which eventually led to autism diagnoses for both him and my husband. Embracing a neurodiverse lifestyle has deeply shaped my approach to lactation care. I’ve incorporated this perspective into my practice, completing specialized courses like the Certified Neurodivergent Lactation Specialist program with Genny Stiller, and continually expanding my knowledge about how neurodivergence can impact lactation. This lived experience allows me to offer a more empathetic, flexible, and individualized approach to the families I support.
2. In what ways has the lactation care field evolved to become more inclusive, and what areas still need improvement?
When Genny Stiller began her research in 2019 on autism and breastfeeding, there was virtually no existing literature on the topic. Since then, awareness and research around how neurodivergence impacts lactation have grown, but there is still a long way to go. One major gap remains in how autism and other neurodivergent conditions present differently in females, as much of the early research focused on male populations. Moving forward, expanding research efforts and sharing knowledge widely are crucial steps to creating a more inclusive and responsive lactation care field.
3. How do you maintain your passion for lactation care while preventing burnout in a field that can be emotionally demanding?
As a neurodivergent individual with a neurodivergent family, I often feel the urge to say yes to every opportunity. Given how emotionally demanding lactation care can be, I’ve had to be intentional about maintaining balance. I lean into my ADHD strengths by diversifying my activities—creating social media content, working with Ceres Chill, spending time outdoors with my kids, reading, and most importantly, setting firm boundaries. Although setting boundaries isn’t always easy, it is essential for protecting my energy and ultimately allows me to be a better, more present lactation provider.
4. If you could instantly implement one change to improve lactation support nationwide, what would it be and why?
If I could wave a magic wand, I would make maternal health care more inclusive by building better accommodations for neurodivergent individuals. Often, small changes—like adjusting lighting, minimizing background noise, or offering multiple ways to share information beyond verbal instruction—can make a big difference. Incorporating conversation, physical demonstration, and hands-on learning into consultations would improve the experience not just for neurodivergent clients, but for all families. Greater understanding and flexibility would lead to more effective, compassionate care across the board.
About the Author
Rebekah Scroggy is a Registered Nurse and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. With experience as a Pediatric ER Nurse, Community Health Nurse, Hospital Lactation Nurse, and now a Private Practice IBCLC, Rebekah has extensive experience in the care of families.
Being a parent is Rebekah’s most important role. She has two kids, and the breastfeeding journeys with both helped to shape her career. Rebekah’s passions include informed care, supportive care, pumping support, bottle refusal support, and holds an additional certification as a Certified Neurodivergent Lactation Specialist.
When not focused on helping families with breastfeeding or supporting families through Ceres Chill; Rebekah enjoys iced coffee, reading fictional books, playing with her two kids, and watching movies with her husband.
Want to learn more from Genny Stiller?
Explore her articles on neurodiversity and lactation here
The content of this post does not imply endorsement and may not reflect the position of USLCA.
