Willow Merchant
Willow Merchant IBCLC
Bend, OR
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Articles by Willow Merchant

Personal experience, local tips, and answers from the consultant — grounded in the latest clinical guidance across the full lactation journey.

From the consultant · 1Nervous system · 1Clogged ducts · 1Trauma & mental health · 1Pumping & work · 1
Nervous systemMar 2026 · 5 min
Why Stress Makes Clogged Ducts Worse — and What to Do About It

As a nurse and trauma specialist, I see it every week: moms with clogs who are also exhausted and anxious. Here's why the nervous system matters.

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From the consultantFeb 2026 · 4 min
Why I Practice Whole-Person Lactation Care

A clogged duct is rarely just a clogged duct. Here's why I look at sleep, stress, and history — not just the latch.

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Clogged ducts & mastitisSep 2026 · 6 min
Clogged Duct vs Mastitis: How to Tell the Difference (and When It's an Emergency)

A clogged duct is a hard lump without fever. Mastitis is an infection with fever, redness, and flu-like symptoms. Here's how to tell them apart and what to do.

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Trauma & mental healthSep 2026 · 7 min
Trauma-Informed Feeding: What It Means and Why It Matters

For survivors of trauma, feeding can be triggering. Trauma-informed lactation care creates safety, choice, and control — here's what that looks like in practice.

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Pumping & workSep 2026 · 8 min
Pumping and Returning to Work: A Realistic Plan That Doesn't Drive You Crazy

Returning to work while breastfeeding? Here's a realistic pumping schedule, flange sizing guide, and tips for maintaining supply without losing your mind.

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Willow Merchant, RN, IBCLC
Emerging Hearts Collective
Bend, OR
Willow is a Registered Nurse, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, and Certified Trauma Speciali…
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📍 Bend, OR · serving Central Oregon and virtually
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© 2026 Willow Merchant, RN, IBCLC. All rights reserved. This site is for education only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.