ESTABLISHING BREASTFEEDING: THE LET-DOWN REFLEX AND WHEN TO FINISH A FEED
The let-down reflex
The hormone oxytocin stimulates the release of milk from the breast. Often even just the thought of breastfeeding is enough to stimulate this let-down reflex and get the milk flowing. Occasionally you may be feeding your baby on one breast and suddenly the other breast starts to drip milk. Firm pressure against the nipple with the flat of your hand can often stop this leakage. Using breastpads can help mop up any spills and may also prevent embarrassment in public, although some women complain that disposable pads stick to their nipples.
Your baby is the best judge of the right time to finish a feed; he will usually fall asleep at the breast or come off the nipple when he has had enough. It is not necessary to offer both breasts to your baby during one feed. If your baby is content after feeding on one breast only, just make sure that you commence the next feed from the other breast. In this way you will ensure that both breasts receive equal stimulation, which is important in order to maintain your milk supply.
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Tags: General health