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I've been expressing breast milk for several weeks now, so I thought I would share some important tips that have helped me greatly.

1. Be sure to drink plenty of water. It's hard to produce milk without it, as I've learned. I started out expressing four to six 3oz bottles a day, but then tapered off to two or three bottles. I realized I had not been drinking much water. Increasing my water intake helped to get my milk production back up. If you decide to increase your water intake, express 15 to 30 minutes later than you normally would for a while.

2. Expressing is usually better in the morning, or after a bath or shower. You get a good let down from it. (Let down is a basically a reflex that moves your milk from the milk ducts into your nipple where your baby or breast pump can suck milk out.)

3. If expressing more than once a day, try to keep to a routine. I express two to three times a day, at 8am, 2pm and 8pm. Although it's often recommended, I don't express through the night, since I always have to feed through the night because my partner won't get up to feed by bottle.

4. About 5 minutes before you're going to express, prepare two face cloths or flannels and a bowl of hot water. Don't make it too hot! I prefer to double express using an Ameda Lactaline dual pump. I put the hot cloths on both of my breasts for five minutes before expressing. If the cloths cool too quickly, reheat them.

5. Before expressing, remove one cloth at a time and massage that breast, rubbing softly. Pay special attention to massaging any lumps or sore areas. If you're expressing off one breast at time, put just one cloth on the breast your planning to use first. Once you feel you are ready to express, take the cloth off that breast, reheat it and place it on the other. If you're planning on double expressing, place hot cloths on each of your breast, wait five minutes, then massage both at the same time.

6. If your baby is due a feed, latch your baby on each breast for a few suckles. It could improve the amount of milk that you can express afterward. It takes about an hour for your production to rebuild.

7. If you do not have a regular routine, you'll express when you feel heavy and sore. You can increase milk production if you wait an extra ten minutes or so before beginning but it is not the best way. The best way to increase your milk production is to, express more regularly through the day and through the night.

8. To help with sore or cracked nipples, hand express a little of your breast milk and rub it onto your nipples and areola. I recommend that you do this after each time you express. It works better than any cream. If you have to use cream I recommend Goldshield Kamillosan. Chamomile ointment can also be used for nappy rash. But only use after expressing or breast feeding. I always wipe off any creams before expressing.

9. If you want to use a hand pump, I recommend the Tommee Tippee. Easy to use, clean and take apart. For an electric pump I recommend the Ameda Lactaline Dual Breast Pump. It is great for double pumping, which saves heaps of time when expressing. It's more expensive, but you get your money's worth. I tried a Medela dual action pump, and hated it. An hour after starting I still only had 30 mills. I can hand express that in 3 minutes.

10. Finally, it's very important to store breast milk properly:

• Milk kept in bags specially designed for breast milk storage can be stored in the fridge or freezer.
• Milk kept in the freezer can be stored for up 6 months at temperature of -18 Celsius or -0.4 Fahrenheit.
• Milk stored at room temperature 26 Celsius or 78.8 Fahrenheit can be keep for up to 8 hours.
• Milk thawed and placed in the fridge can be stored for 24 hours if unopened at the temperature should be +2 to +5 Celsius or 35.6 to 41 Fahrenheit. If opened it can be stored for 12 hours at the same temperature.
• Milk stored in the fridge without being frozen or unopened can be stored for up to 72 hours. (Recommendation is 24 hours. I only keep it for 24 hours before I will pour it down the sink.) The temperature should between +2 to +5 Celsius or 35.6 to 41 Fahrenheit.
• Milk that has been drank but not finished should be poured out after an hour.

The incidence of eczema around the world has been steadily increasing over the past 40 years. The problem with this is that this increase did not have to happen. This article will explain the why of this problem, and show you how breastfeeding may be able to reverse it as we go forward.

Before we (people) had the knowledge of preserving foods using salting, smoking, refrigeration etc the human diet was much more varied than it is now. The average diet consisted of about 200 foods. It is now down to a rotation of about 20. This narrowing has increased the populations chance of developing food allergies.

Another reason for the increase in eczema and like allergies is that more babies are being fed cow's milk. Cow's milk contains up to 20 known allergy causing ingredients, and this milk can be directly traced to a sevenfold increase in the incidence of allergies in babies.

The first food that babies eat are often times the ones that they become allergic to. If only fed his mothers milk, the incidence of exposure to allergens is decreased because she is a filter standing between the baby and the potential problem. By the time he gets to eating his own food, he would have developed a stronger immune system to assist him with dealing with threats on his own. Breastfeeding is credited with helping people to deal better with allergies all the way through their teenage years.

At birth a babies' immune system is immature and it remains that way beyond the ninth month of his life. With the increase of baby food formulas a decrease in breastfeeding has ensued. Hence an increase in eczema and other allergies. This cause of increase is respected as a cause because it is known that a mothers milk is one of the feeds necessary to help an infant develop a healthy immune system. Furthermore, it is also known that a mothers milk gives the babies intestines a protective barrier that prevents allergy causing proteins from being absorbed into the babies' blood stream.

If you are breastfeeding a child who already has eczema, or has gotten eczema despite being breastfed, it then becomes even more important to his future health that you continue to do so. Observation leads us to believe that the child who has eczema and breast milk is able to cope with the disease better than a child who does not have the benefit of breast milk as an eczema treatment.

During pregnancy the baby is like a parasite and will take all the nutrients that he requires from you. If your diet is sufficient in nutrients for both, it does not cause any problems. If on the other hand your diet is insufficient for both, then your recovery and the ability to produce breast milk after the birth will take longer and if you still do not replenish your body stores during the confinement period, you may remain weak for a long time. If you are breast-feeding, you need to increase the amount slightly because you are eating for two. A nursing mother must continue to eat high quality food recommended during pregnancy in order to establish lactation and maintain an adequate supply of her breast milk. A deficient diet not only upset the nutrient content of her milk but can also reduce the quantity of milk produced. This is probably why our elders make such a lot of fuss about eating well during the confinement period. It is important that you eat nourishing food that includes all of the main food groups at every meal.

Just remember the following pointers:

1. If you are breast feeding whatever you eat will be transferred to your baby via your breast milk therefore it is important that you eat a balanced diet so that your baby will get the right nutrients for optimum growth and development.

2. Some food does cause the baby to become 'windy' or have loose stools. If you find that your baby is suddenly quite unsettled, try to think of what you ate during the last 12 hours. Avoid that food for a few days and then try again. If the same happens again, then you should avoid that particular food for a while and re-introduce it into your diet by taking a very small amount and see how baby reacts then slowly increase the amount so that baby gets used to the food.

3. You may find that your appetite is slightly low especially during the first week. This is normal as your body is readjusting to its non-pregnant state both physically and mentally therefore it is better to have small frequent meals instead of the normal 3 big meals a day.

4. You need to drink plenty of fluids in order to make sufficient breast milk and it is best that you get this from sources such as soup or nourishing tea. Drinking too much plain water will dilute the breast milk and therefore is not nutritious for the baby.

So what should you eat?

Protein - The building blocks are amino acids that contain oxygen, hydrogen, carbon, and nitrogen. Only eight amino acids are obtained from the food we eat. It is necessary for growth and repair of cells in the body. It helps make enzymes that enable us to digest food, produce antibodies and hormones. Too much protein in the body are converted into glucose and urea. Sources - Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, cheese, cereals (wheat, oats and rice), pulses (beans, lentils and peas), nuts and potatoes.

Fat Soluble vitamins

Vitamin A - Retinol and Beta-carotene are necessary for cell division and growth. To maintain healthy mucous membranes of respiratory, digestive and urinary tracts and is important for good eyesight.

Sources -

Retinol - Liver, oily fish, dairy produce and eggs.

Beta-carotene - Carrots, red peppers, mangoes, spinach and kale.

Vitamin D - Calciferols is needed to absorb calcium and phosphorous for healthy teeth and bones. It is also produced by exposing the skin to the sun. Sources - Eggs, tuna, salmon, sardines, fish liver oil and fortified margarines.

Vitamin E - Tocopherols prevent oxidation of free radicals polyunsaturated fatty acids in cell membranes and other tissues. Sources - Vegetable oils, nuts, wheat germ, seeds and margarine.

Vitamin K - Phylloquinone is essential in forming certain proteins and for blood clotting. Sources - Green leafy vegetables especially green cabbage, broccoli and Brussels sprouts

Water Soluble vitamins

Vitamin B

Thiamin (B1) is needed to obtain energy from carbohydrates, fats and alcohol and to prevent build-up of toxic waste substances. Sources - Pork, liver, heart, kidneys, nuts and pulses.

Riboflavin (B2) is necessary to release energy from food and for the functioning of vitamin B6 and niacin. Sources - Milk, yoghurt, eggs, meat, poultry, fish and fortified cereals

Pyridoxine (B6) helps to release energy from proteins and is also important for immune function, the nervous system and formation of red blood cells. Sources - Lean meat, poultry, eggs, fish, tofu, wholemeal bread, nuts, bananas, yeast extract and soya beans

Niacin produces energy in cells to form neurotransmitters. Maintain healthy skin and an efficient digestive system. Sources - Lean meat, poultry, pulses, potatoes, nuts and fortified cereals.

Pantothenic acid helps release energy from food and is essential for synthesis of cholesterol, fat and red blood cells. Sources - Meat, vegetables, liver, dried fruits and nuts.

Biotin is important in the synthesis of fat and cholesterol. Sources - Liver, peanut butter, egg yolk and yeast extract.

Folic acid is necessary for cell division and the formation of DNA, RNA and proteins in the body. Sources - Brussels sprouts, liver, green leafy vegetables, broccoli, pulses, wheatgerm, fortified breakfast cereals and bread.

Cyanocobalamin (B12) is necessary for making DNA, RNA and myelin. It helps transportation of folate into cells. Sources - Meat, poultry, fish, tofu, eggs and diary products.

Vitamin C or Ascorbic acid is necessary to make collagen and neurotransmitters like noradrenalin and serotonin. It is an antioxidant in the body and aids absorption of iron. Sources - Fruits, particularly citrus fruits, kiwis, strawberries, peppers, potatoes and vegetables.

Carbohydrates are converted into glucose and glycogen to give the body fuel for energy.
Glucose is in the blood and glycogen is stored in the liver and muscles. If the level of glucose drops, glycogen is converted into glucose for use. Sources - Sprouting grains, starchy root vegetables, fruits, cereals, pulses, milk and diary products.

Fats

• Saturated fats

• Monounsaturated fats

• Polyunsaturated fats

• Cholesterol

Rich source of calories for energy and provide fat soluble vitamins. It maintains healthy skin and body functions. Necessary for the production of sex hormones, synthesis of vitamin D and production of cell membranes and nerve coatings. Sources - Butter, cheeses, fatty meat and all forms of cooking oil.

Macrominerals

Potassium regulate heart beat and maintain blood pressure. Maintain fluid and electrolyte balance within cells. Sources - Avocado, fresh and dried fruits, banana, seeds and nuts, citrus fruits, potato and pulses.

Calcium is a vital component of bones and teeth. Vital for nerve transmission, blood clotting and muscle function. Sources - Green leafy vegetables, sesame seeds, tinned sardines, milk and dairy products.

Chloride is vital for stomach acid formation. Maintains fluid and electrolyte balance. Sources - Salt and any food containing salt.

Magnesium is important for muscle contraction and assists in nerve impulses. It is an important constituent of bones and teeth. Sources - Wholegrain cereals, green vegetables, nuts, sesame seeds and pulses

Sodium works with potassium to regulate fluid balance. It is essential for nerve and muscle function. Sources - Table salt, processed meats, yeast extracts and tinned anchovies

Phosphorous help to form and maintain healthy bones and teeth, help to release energy in cells and essential for absorption of many nutrients. Sources - Red meat, poultry, fish and seafood, milk and diary products, seeds and whole grains.

Microminerals

Iron is essential for the production of haemoglobin which carries oxygen. It is needed for synthesis of RNA, DNA and collagen for healthy gums, teeth bones and cartilage. Sources - Liver, kidneys, red meat, sardines, egg yolk, green leafy vegetables, raisins, dried apricots

Zinc is essential for normal growth, reproduction and immunity. It aids the action of many enzymes. Sources - Oysters, animal proteins, beans, nuts, whole grains, pumpkin and sunflower seeds

Selenium protects cells against free radical damage. It is vital for normal sexual development. Sources - Meat and fish, butter, avocados, brazil nuts and lentils.

Water is vital for life. It is necessary for digestion and elimination of waste products. It acts as a lubricant for eyes and joints and regulates body temperature. Sources - Drinks, fruits and vegetables, meat, fish, eggs, bread and cereals, milk and dairy products.

Food for thought

It is not only Asian communities that advocate lactating mothers refrain from eating fruits and vegetables, some Western communities do the same. In my opinion, the reason for avoiding fruits and vegetables is that some contain high levels of oxalate that interferes with calcium absorption. Lactating mothers require high calcium intake for adequate milk production.

Fruits high in oxalate - Kiwi, guava, star fruit, blueberries, figs and strawberries
Vegetables high in oxalates - Tapioca, pumpkin, sweet potato, carrot, garlic, watercress, brinjal, leeks, turnip, chives, lady's fingers, parsley and spinach

Tip - Blanching the fruits and vegetables could lower the oxalate level.

Fruits low in oxalate - Papaya, langsat, banana, avocado, cherries, lemon, mango, watermelon, honeydew melon, ciku, durian and peeled apples.
Vegetables low in oxalates - Cauliflower, cabbage, kai lan, petola, green pea, capsicum, potato, tomato, cucumber, iceberg lettuce

Tip - If you love your fruits and vegetables and is worried about calcium absorption, then it is best that you have your milk drinks 3-4 hours before or after your main meals.

Avoid taking too much salt as this may reduce breast milk production. Cooling and windy food may contribute to baby becoming colicky. Acidic food may increase bleeding in the mother and diarrhea in the baby. What you eat also depends on what you believe in and who cooks for you. I hope that with the above information you will be able to tell your 'cook' what is best for both you and your baby.

Breast feeding provides many health benefits for both child as well as mother. Breast milk contains just the right balance proportion of nutrients for the baby. No infant formula can match all of the nutritional benefits of a mother's milk and it can not adjust and change according to the change and age of child. Some mothers are unnecessarily worried about their milk supply but some time mother's milk supply is really less to demand of baby.

Some easy tips to increase breast milk are:

The important thing is to feed baby as frequently as possible allow the baby nurse on demand rather than on a set schedule.

Drink enough fluid. It can be water milk or juice of any fruit it is also a good habit to fill a glass of water to drink while your baby is nursing. Drinking sufficient fluids won't make woman produce more milk, but is important in replenish lost fluids.

Nursing requires about an extra 500 calories per day. Women because of fear of obesity after delivery takes fewer calories than their demand required for body at this period makes them fatigued and anemic. Women should wisely choose best food like vegetables, fruits, milk and low fatty things in their diet during this period.

Stress can negatively affect milk production so try to take proper rest and relax whenever get opportunity. Massaging breast also increases milk.

so there is nothing to worry about decrease milk supply just have adequate fluid,good food, proper rest and give feed frequently to baby will solve problem.

Grow a cup size. Why not? Many women enjoy the fact that their breasts swell up when they are pregnant and / or breast feeding. Of course, this is only because of the milk for her baby. Unfortunately, that is the only good thing about it – most of the rest is just a real pain to deal with. Another thing that new moms don’t particularly enjoy is the fact that they have, due to the pregnancy, put on a significant amount of weight. Well, the theory of lipo-augmentation is almost the perfect solution for you if you are in this condition.

The basic concept is to remove the excess weight from your thighs or belly and inject it into your breasts. A doctor by the name of Dr. Sydney Collman has done this procedure often and believes that it is much better than other kinds of breast augmentation. Unfortunately, it is two procedures in one, because you must first get the liposuction and then the breast augmentation, after the lipids have been refined, or "purified." The entire procedure takes about seven hours. Nonetheless, a cosmetic surgeon can shape and sculpt the breasts much more effectively by relocating your own body fat.

Hey, not counting the money you spend, after this procedure you will still have natural breasts, in a way. They will not only appear more natural than any other kind of breast surgery available, your surgery will not leave nasty scarring nor will it be as painful as some other procedures. Your breasts will have more upper fullness and the most natural look possible if you have this procedure done as opposed to other kinds of breast augmentation. You will have better cleavage, refined lipids (or fat cells) will enhance and enlarge your breasts.

One woman, out of necessity, was about to do a skin grafting because breastfeeding had somehow left one of her breast significantly larger than the other, when she found out about this procedure. Because of her change of heart (deciding to try the lipo-augmentation procedure instead) she was spared a nasty scar and her breasts are back to normal. There are times such as these when cosmetic surgery can really lift you from a serious depression that results from this or any similar situation. And the increase in self esteem can certainly improve your overall day-to-day life.

By the paragraph above, I do not mean to insinuate that someone has to look perfect. As a matter of fact, many people who are stable and secure would not feel any better or worse from the surgery. However, whether appropriate or not, society and the media (or whomever else you want to blame) causes some people to feel incredible depression if they are not “perfect.” Enhancing beauty makes these individuals feel better. The physical expectations some people have, whether reasonable or unfortunately horrible, it is a fact of life.

Most women’s breasts lose their breast firmness with age, especially large-breasted women. Reasons may range from inherited characteristics such as skin elasticity and breast density (the ratio of lightweight fat to heavier glands). Other factors for breast sagging include multiple pregnancies; breast feeding, rapid weight loss, gravity and age.

The connective tissues supporting the breast are always under constant stretch due to the effects of gravity on the weight of the breast. Breast-feeding is another contributor to breast sagging because of the expansion and contraction of the breast tissue over months.

Other women may be prone to sagging because of loss in weight, genetics or multiple pregnancies.
As we age, our skin ages too. It does not support things up as well as it did when we were young, because it has lost some of its elasticity. The older we get the less elastic our skin becomes. Sagging may also be caused by partial deterioration of the glandular tissues that produce firmness of the breasts and some stretching of the tissues connecting the breasts to their muscles.

Premature sagging occurs because of stretching the Cooper's ligaments that help suspend and support the breast. This can occur after pregnancy and weight loss. The onset of sagging breasts in some younger women is change in overall breast size after having a baby. A woman's breasts generally become larger and engorged with milk in preparation for breastfeeding. Once breastfeeding is over, her breasts may not snap back.

If one is not getting enough support from her bra, or not wearing a bra at all, breasts can start to sag due to lack of support. This is especially true for larger breasted women, and women who may be participating in sports without wearing a proper sports bra.

Another reason for breast sagging is the lack of the hormone estrogen, which occurs at menopause. This reduction in estrogen affects all the tissues of the body, including breast tissue, and results in a reduction in size and fullness.

Who can benefit from breast firming techniques?

• Breast-feeding mothers need breast firming and breast enlargement, as pregnancy and lactation may have caused sagging of their breasts.

• Women who have lost considerable weight; and need increased breast size and firmness.

• Women who have had breast implants removed and need breast firming and enlargement.

• Women who have loose and sagging breasts, due to heredity, or some surgery etc.

• Aging women who still want to maintain that youthful look.

What to do to increase breast firmness?

Breasts are like any other part of our body, and therefore very much susceptible to wear and tear, toxins and other related problems. Breasts lose their tone and elasticity with age. This generally happens during the middle age. However, a woman can maintain healthy breasts through several ways.
Measures should be taken earlier in life to prevent, or at least reduce, sagging later in life. They include wearing supportive brassieres during pregnancy, breast feeding, and exercising.

Exercise and massaging:

Massage aids in the enhancement and rigidity of breasts. Breast exercises help firm up the pectoral muscles below the breasts. Once the pectoral muscles become firmer, the breast tissues also follow making the breast tissues stronger. Breast exercises are the most natural and safe way for a better and firm bust size. Breast firmness exercises also make you generally healthy.

Breast massages consist of different pressures applied on the breasts leading to better circulation of blood in the breast.

Breast firming products:

Many breast-firming products are easily available in the market today. Breast firming products available in various forms include creams, pills, lotions and sprays.

Most of these products stimulate the growth of breast tissue, and thus help in maintaining the firmness of the breasts. It is believed that theses products contain plant estrogens, called as phytoestrogens, which stimulate the growth of breast tissue and give rigidity to the breast. A lot of research on breast firmness products is continuously going on to introduce new and unique products.

One should also be regular in wearing supportive bras during breast-feeding. Special types of such brassieres are now available in the market, which provide support during lactation, so as to prevent sagging.

Breast Pumps:

Breast pumps also help enhance the breast size and give rigidity to the breast. It consists of two cups attached to a vacuum generating device. These cups are to be placed over the breast. Pressure is created when the air is sucked out of the cups, thus increasing the blood circulation in the breasts and providing firmness to it. Breast pumps help in flushing out any toxic materials that settle in the breasts from time to time.

Breast implants:

This is a surgical procedure, and is used to increase the size of the breast and give it a more firm and rounded look. This cosmetic procedure is increasingly becoming popular nowadays, amongst women of all age groups. However, one should be well aware of the pros and cons of any surgery before going ahead with it.

At some point during your breast pumping experience you will probably begin to search for new ways to increase breast milk supply. Well, luckily, there are a number of ways to do this.

• Water - always make sure to get plenty of water during your breast pumping experience. If you need a way to increase breast milk supply, you will be surprised just how quickly your supply will increase when you getting plenty of water in your system.
• Fenugreek - you may probably find that this will increase breast milk supply within 1-2 days. In addition, it is very simple when taking the capsule form.
• Oatmeal - I began eating oatmeal immediately and it always seemed to keep my supply up.
• Relaxation - you will be shocked that once you begin to relax during your pumping sessions, just how much more you will begin to pump each session. Most important thing - do not look at the breast milk while you are pumping.
• Sleep - Everyone says to get enough sleep, but what new mother gets enough sleep during those first weeks after the baby is born. The good thing about breast pumping is that dad can feed the baby while you get a few extra hours of sleep.
• Mother's Milk Tea - you may find that this tea will begin to increase breast milk supply in about 2-3 days. Some moms have even said that it helps their baby with gas and colic. However, it must be steeped and prepared like traditional tea.
• Blessed Thistle - you can also take this in capsule form. Some moms use this in a mixture with other ingredients to create their own herbs.
• Brewer's Yeast - you can also take this in capsule form. Some moms have found that this causes gassiness for the baby.
• Pump more frequently - If you need to increase your supply, begin to pump again more often. Each session will bring you fewer ounces, but with the extra pumping sessions each day, the total ounces should increase each day.
• Prescription drugs - After speaking with your doctor, you may decide that prescription drugs are the way to increase milk supply. However, make sure to check all the side effects before taking this route.

Copyright 2006, Wendy Williamson

Relaxation while using your breast pump is essential to expressing more breast milk for you baby. It is important to eliminate influences in your nervous system that elicit the “fight or flight” response. You probably know the “fight or flight” response shuts down excess circulation to the extremities, sending adrenalin through your system, causing cold hands, slowing your digestion, and basically stopping any “unnecessary functions” such as your milk let-down in order to send more blood rushing to the heart and running muscles.

Eliminate Anxiety about Your Breast Pumping

Identify the source of your anxiety and eliminate it if possible. How? Talk about your worries openly with someone who will listen. Have a laugh about it if you can. If you have been holding back, have a cry about it, too. Do the best you can to fix the problem then move on. Next, try to distract yourself. Are you anxious about filling your bottles? Don’t watch them. Find something else to do with your eyes. Look at pictures (not just one) of your baby. Put pictures of your baby in a slide show or folder on your computer, if you pump at your desk. Read something light and diverting. Call a friend on the telephone and just chat. Eat a high protein snack. Have a drink, like raspberry leaf tea or a mother’s herb tea, or plenty of refreshing, cool water. Forbear from working while you are pumping if it contributes tension.

Ease Pain or Discomfort before Using Your Breast Pump

Take Advil or Tylenol thirty minutes before pumping if you have any pain of any variety. Are you too hot or too cold? Fix that. Do some of you muscles tire while pumping? Practice proper posture to prevent your back from tiring. Do some neck rolls. Extend your legs out in front of you and alternate flexing your heels and pointing your toes. Try a heating pad on the shoulders and back. Have someone massage your back while breast pumping. Has the breast pump always been uncomfortable or painful? Start with the lowest vacuum. Maybe you should keep it there. Some mothers have had better milk output by lowering the setting for greater comfort. Do you have fit issues with your funnels? One-third of all women who breast pump find they can get better results with larger size funnels. Try lanolin on your nipples to make them softer. If necessary, talk to the breast pump distributor or manufacturer. Talk to a lactation consultant. Consider switching to a better quality breast pump even if you have to rent one short-term to see if it makes a difference.

Use Visualization

As you are setting up your breast pump, imagine or visualize that you are preparing to feed your infant. Imagine the noises your hungry baby makes, and how he looks, putting his hands to his mouth, turning his head toward you. Imagine the peaceful feeling that comes over you when the milk lets-down. Visualize his little hand gripping your clothing or finger. Imagine his weight against you and the feel of his soft skin and blanket. Add as many details as you can, incorporating your five senses and positive emotions. Some women have success with relaxation scripts about lying on the beach or about waterfalls and rivers or imagining themselves as fountains of milk. You can also buy relaxation script recordings that are very well done with music or nature sounds.

Actively Relax Until Your Milk Lets-Down

Practice the relaxation techniques you learned in your childbirth class. Breathe deeply from the belly. Close your eyes. Practice progressive relaxation: breathing slowly and deeply, consciously relaxing every part of your body, first tense the muscles of the feet. Hold for a slow count of five, and then relax. Next tense the muscles of the lower legs, hold for a slow count of five and then relax. Repeat with other muscle groups as you move up your body to your head.

Continue breast pumping for a minute or two after the milk stops dripping. Do not be surprised if you can get a second or third let-down in one session with your breast pump. Eliminate anxiety, discomfort, or tension of any type to ward off the “fight or flight” hormones. With practice your let-down will come quicker and the quantity of your expressed breast milk will increase.

References: www.kellymom.com/bf/letdown.html Kelly Bonyata, BS, IBCLC

http://www.geocities/Wellesley/4092/relax.html Diane O’Brien Juve

When a mother is expecting a baby for the first time she is often worried about whether she will produce enough breast milk to feed her child. This is quite natural. However some mothers still feel that they will not produce enough for their child, despite begin told not to worry from their doctor, midwife, friends and family. Perhaps, understanding how breast milk is made will alleviate those fears.

During the last few months of pregnancy an expectant mother will undoubtedly begin to notice the enlargement of her breasts. Her bra cup size will increase substantially and nearing the time of birth she may feel some discomfort brought about by this welling. It's a mother's developing placenta that stimulates the release of oestrogen and progesterone, which in turn stimulate the complex biological system that makes lactation possible.

The anatomy of the female breast consists of the visible area we can see on the outside; the main point of interest being the areola (nipple), and is what your new baby will latch on to. The inside tissues of the breast contain a mixture of Alveoli, ductules and ducts. These are all contained in a protective layer of fat, which is what gives women the various shapes and sizes of breasts.

By the time the baby is born, glandular tissue has replaced most of the fat cells and accounts for a mother's very large breasts. Each one may get as much as 1½ pounds heavier. Milk is produced in the alveoli: A cluster of alveoli is called a lobule; a cluster of lobules is called a lobe. Each breast contains between 15 and 20 lobes, with one milk duct for every lobe. It is quite normal for an expecting mother to begin producing milk some months before the baby is born.

Immediately after the baby is born, milk production goes into full swing; again this is caused by the release of hormones following the birth of the baby. A mother can expect to be producing all the milk her baby requires with 24 to 48 hours after birth. This period is called lactogenesis. Many mothers will experience painful breasts due to engorgement, although frequent feeding of baby during the first few days usually relieves this. A mother will also notice that the constuency of her breast milk is very creamy and slightly off white. Again this is normal. The milk produced during this first few days is called colostrums (or first milk). Colostrum is a high-protein, low-fat milk that is just what baby needs during its first days. It is easily digestible and packed with anti-bodies that help ward off infection. A mother's breast milk will continue to change giving just the right nutrients her baby needs during it's first year of life.

Of course, in order for your baby to enjoy this goodness he will have to learn to latch on to mother's breast. This can sometimes be difficult and will need mother's help and patience. During the first days of feeding, you may feel some contractions in your abdomen as the baby sucks. The usually mild discomfort signals the release of oxytocin, which helps shrink your uterus back to its pre-pregnancy size.