Authors: Elise Armoiry Pharm D, IBCLC, Marie-Xavier Laporte, RN, RDN, IBCLC
Author Information and Disclosure of Conflicts of InterestAbstract
Obesity affects a significant proportion of women of childbearing age and is associated with specific challenges during pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. Key findings of this article include:
- Obesity is a multifactorial chronic disease shaped by genetic, hormonal, environmental, political, and psychological factors, not merely individual lifestyle choices.
- Weight stigma and fatphobia are pervasive in maternity care settings and have documented negative effects on maternal mental health, care-seeking behaviour, and breastfeeding outcomes.
- Language and communication matter: a respectful, non-judgmental approach from IBCLCs is essential when supporting women with obesity.
- Obesity may be associated with delayed lactogenesis, lower prolactin response, and anatomical challenges, but these are not universal and should not be assumed.
- Antenatal preparation, including discussion of skin-to-skin contact, colostrum expression, and adapted positioning, can meaningfully improve breastfeeding outcomes in this population.
Keywords: Obesity, Weight stigma, Fatphobia, Maternity Care, Lactation Support, Breastfeeding
How to cite: Armoiry E, Laporte M-X: Understanding obesity and weight stigma to improve breastfeeding support. Lactation & Breastfeeding 2026;3:03.
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Elise Armoiry is a pharmacist with a background as a hospital consultant in geriatric hospitals. She has been an IBCLC for 6 years (www.mybabymoonibclc.com/). The author declares that there are no conflicts of interest or financial relationships with commercial products.
Marie-Xavier Laporte is a Registered Nurse and Registered Dietitian (aportenutrition.com); she has been an IBCLC for 2 years. The author declares that there are no conflicts of interest or financial relationships with commercial products.