The “Letdown Response” is slang for the term “Milk Ejection Reflex” (MER), which is the initial contraction of milk from the alveoli, from which the milk supply is stored prior to use. The grape-like clusters contract and squeeze milk down the milk ducts, or channels, when the body receives stimuli, such as nipple stimulation, baby crying, pumping, breast massage, etc. Read more on how overactive letdown works.
Achieving a good latch supports the milk supply so the baby gets enough milk for the duration of the breastfeeding journey, minimizes sore nipples and clogs, and also helps the baby get more of a “complete” feeding, drawing out the fattier components of breastmilk.
In terms of actual breast milk supply, as in, the body produces enough to sustain feedings, the mother’s body relies on a number of signals in order to know how much milk is needed. It's referred to as supply and demand, but more appropriately, demand and supply.
Finding the right fit is always important – whether it’s for clothing, shoes, but especially when it comes to your breast pump flange size if you're a breast pumping mom. Soreness, pinching, irritation, and clogged milk ducts don’t sound fun but are all things that can occur if you don’t have the correct flange size. A breast pump flange (breast shield) size that is too small or too big could seriously hinder your pumping experience and overall breast pumping journey. So, be sure to choose the correct size to properly express milk for your infant.
Are you shopping for a baby shower or registry? Or are you putting together gift ideas for yourself? When deciding on what to purchase in preparation for a new baby, many try to be more intentional with what they pick out for other moms. Especially if you are experienced and know that, while cutesy items are fun, they don't matter as much at 3 a.m. when we simply need things that make our sleepy lives easier. So what makes a great gift that is helpful and innovative?
It is all about mobility and vacuum suction when it comes to pumping with the new Motif Duo. Pumping mothers need ease and accessibility to reach their goals, and the Motif Duo is the perfect pump for this!
Keep in mind: Safety comes first. We will discuss ways to achieve the proper setup without compromising your safety while riding in your vehicle. Practice your set up, get comfortable with it, and only drive and pump if you can do so safely and legally. The right materials and pump will assist with this.
Clogged, blocked, and plugged milk ducts: Many terms exist for the same problem. Restricted milk flow, or "milk stasis," leading from the breast milk-storing alveoli (those grape-like clusters in the breasts), may lead to a fatty blockage that soon becomes engorgement.
Motherhood is a synonym for "busy," and multitasking is our specialty. With that said, hands-free pumping just makes sense. Having our hands free makes pumping less stressful, easier to make adjustments to the breast pump controls, along with other tasks or activities, such as caring for your baby or older children, enjoying a snack, cooking, taking care of a household chore that brings you peace in accomplishing, and so many other opportunities. If you work a desk / office job, and going on pumping breaks is a limited option, saving desk tasks for when pumping is a great solution when you're able to go hands-free.
Breast milk is known for its antibodies, nutrient density, and numerous health benefits. We also frequently discuss the benefits of breastfeeding, juggling lifestyle, troubleshooting occasional problems, and learning the ins-and-outs of pumping! Just when you think you've learned all about breastfeeding and the amazing qualities of breast milk, we have a few bonus breastfeeding facts that you may not have heard of, thought of, or fully realized!
