Ashley Georgakopoulos, IBCLC

Did you know that optimal milk output and supply starts with the correct flange size? Size absolutely matters in both comfort and effectiveness of your pump. The first checkpoint in troubleshooting pumping is “do we have the right size?” Its also something that needs to be checked throughout the entirety of the pumping journey. From water retention and mother’s weight postpartum to fluctuations in milk demands throughout that first year postpartum, breast tissue and nipple diameters have the potential to change sizes. 

The summer months are approaching fast, and vacation is calling our names! Whether you are taking a road trip or are flying across the country, knowing how to store the milk you bring, or pump, along the way is imperative to save the integrity (and time spent!) If traveling with breast milk is on your mind, we can can cover ways to make this less of a hassle!

Labels, misinformation, outdated information, and access to online sources make navigating the use of medications while breastfeeding and pumping quite complicated. Lets gather what information is actually needed, common myths, and resources to check and discuss with your healthcare provider when seasonal allergies hit.

All breast pump parts should be clean and sterile prior to use and after pumping sessions, while the latter is particularly important for the first 6 months of baby’s life or if immune compromised (weakened immune system). The parts come in contact with skin, milk, air, saliva (if connecting to a bottle), and the environment around you, all of which can be vehicles for bacterial and microbe growth over time. Proper steps will also allow for full longevity of breastmilk inventory and storage prior to expiration, providing extra protection from contaminating factors.

One thing we can certainly all attest to is that when the mother feels cared for and that her needs are met, her cup is filled to be able to tackle motherhood and all that comes with it. Sometimes, we have to take matters into our own hands and put into place some self-care practices and tools. So let's cover ways we can recharge our batteries and take on the day with a fresh start. That sounds like a great Mother’s Day gift.

Where do you start when deciding to develop a pumping schedule for work? You have goals to protect your milk supply and have enough milk to leave for the caregiver or daycare, maybe continue breastfeeding when you’re home, and be comfortable throughout your work day.

From day one of your body producing milk as colostrum to throughout the entirety of your milk-making journey, breast milk can and will change color. But why? As volume increases and composition adjusts, we begin to see that milky-white we think of when we think of milk. 

There are other colors that you may notice, especially if you’re pumping. Colors range from golden yellow, to white, to blue, green, and even pink. They are all indications of subtle changes to the composition, your own personal nutrition, medications you may be taking, ruptured blood vessels, infections, and illness. 

Pairing a wearable breast pump with your Luna can offer convenience and discreetness. With a wearable pump, mothers can move around freely and perform daily activities while pumping, providing greater flexibility and privacy.

Breast milk and its versatile uses beyond nutrition for the baby is both a historical and cultural phenomenon. It’s well-known for its antimicrobial and pro-healing benefits, from nipple trauma relief to mild ear infection treatments. 

But can it help with scar tissue and the elasticity of the skin in regards to stretch marks?

Is breastfeeding a form of birth control? In short, the answer is “Yes,” but there are limitations to both the efficacy, reliability, and duration. Since lactation is heavily fueled by certain elevated hormones, this birth control method is the body’s natural way of spacing out potential pregnancies.

Let’s look at how this works, along with other types of birth control for nursing mothers, and how to protect your milk supply.