As you prepare for breastfeeding, one aspect that may surprise you is the let-down reflex. This natural response occurs when your baby suckles at your breast, prompting your body to release milk. Interestingly, you might also experience this reflex in response to other stimuli, such as hearing your baby’s cries or feeling rushed for a feeding—sometimes at the most inconvenient times, like during a meeting.
What is the Let-Down Reflex?
The let-down reflex, commonly referred to as the milk let-down reflex, is a physiological response that ensures milk is available for your baby. When your little one latches on or when you use a breast pump, it stimulates nerves that trigger the release of two key hormones: prolactin and oxytocin. Prolactin aids in producing more milk, while oxytocin is responsible for pushing the milk out of your nipples, facilitating a smoother breastfeeding experience for both you and your baby.
Signs of Milk Let-Down
Recognizing the signs of let-down can help you understand when your milk is ready to flow. You may feel a tingling sensation in your breasts, or notice that your baby is gulping more frequently during feeding.
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In summary, the let-down reflex is a crucial part of breastfeeding that makes milk available to your baby when they need it. By being aware of the signs and understanding how to stimulate this reflex, you can make the breastfeeding experience smoother.