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Milk transfer is the movement of milk from the lactating parent's breast/chest, out through the nipple, and into the baby's mouth where it can be swallowed. But have you ever stopped to think about differentiating who actually performs milk transfer during breastfeeding/chest feeding- the baby, the lactating parent, or both? This is an important concept to understand, as it will help to determine the effectiveness of the feeding session. The very first breast/chest feeding, i

Nipple shields were invented as a way to breast/chest feed without causing excessive compression directly on the nipple, creating a barrier between the tongue and the nipple. They are mostly used when the nipple becomes too sore. But effective breastfeeding/chest feeding does not involve compression of the nipple ! When a baby is latched correctly, breastfeeding/chest feeding works using a combination of compression of the breast/chest by the baby's tongue , negative pressur

It is no longer recommended to treat mastitis with heat. According to the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine Protocol #36, heat can cause more fluid congestion in the area and can worsen symptoms. Cold compresses, wrapped in a towel, are a better choice for relief of pain and swelling.

Using the wrong size flange can cause pain, blocked ducts, and poor milk output. Flanges should fit snuggly against the sides of your nipple, causing gentle stimulation to the nipple, increasing prolactin and oxytocin. A snug fit also concentrates the vacuum to the tip of the nipple where the milk ducts terminate, avoiding pressure on the rest of the nipple and areola. Read the newest research at: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/08903344241296036

Hi, I'm Sandra Cole, RN, IBCLC, and I've dedicated my career to helping families navigate the challenges of breast/chest feeding and lactation. With years of experience in Neonatal Intensive Care nursing across Canada and the United States, including roles as a neonatal/pediatric transport nurse and ECMO perfusionist, I've seen firsthand the complexities families face, especially with late preterm infants. I'm proud to have held the High-Risk Neonatal Intensive Care certifica