INTERVIEW OVERVIEW
In this episode, Holly Hill, a lactation expert, discusses the fundamental elements of a good latch and different breastfeeding positions. She emphasizes the importance of comfortable positioning and proper latch to prevent nipple pain and damage. Holly also talks about letdown and the different sensations or lack thereof that mothers may experience. She explains that there is no specific recommended time for breastfeeding and focuses more on the quality of the feeding. Holly also addresses common breastfeeding challenges such as sore nipples and mastitis, providing tips and techniques to protect and heal the nipples and reduce inflammation. In this conversation, Holly, a lactation consultant, shares valuable insights and tips for breastfeeding and pumping. She discusses how to prevent and manage mastitis, the importance of correct flange size for pumping, and the process of weaning. Holly emphasizes the need for individualized support and resources, such as lactation consultants, La Leche League, and breastfeeding support groups. She also highlights the significance of comfortable nursing bras and nursing-friendly clothing.
TAKEAWAYS
Proper positioning and a good latch are essential for a successful breastfeeding experience and to prevent nipple pain and damage.
There is no specific recommended time for breastfeeding; focus on the quality of the feeding, including the pattern of sucking and swallowing.
Mothers may experience different sensations or lack of sensation during letdown, but it does not affect milk flow.
Breast gymnastics, gentle hand movements and massage, can help reduce inflammation and prevent clogged milk ducts.
Using mother's own milk, nipple creams, and other products like nipple shields or Medi honey can aid in healing sore nipples.
Individualized approaches are necessary for addressing breastfeeding challenges, such as sore nipples and mastitis. Preventing mastitis involves managing inflammation and swelling through techniques like breast gymnastics, cold packs, and rest.
Choosing the correct flange size for pumping is crucial to prevent nipple damage, swelling, and pain.
Virtual lactation support is available for those who don't have access to in-person consultations.
Weaning should be a gradual process, and resources like cabbage leaves, teas, and essential oils can help.
Individualized support and resources, such as lactation consultants, La Leche League, and breastfeeding support groups, are essential for a successful breastfeeding journey.
Comfortable nursing bras and nursing-friendly clothing can enhance the breastfeeding experience.
SOUND BITES
Protect the nipples all the time.
The very best positioning is the one that feels the most comfortable and creates the very best latch with mom and baby.
Letdown just means milk flowing. Some parents feel tingling, some feel intense pressure, and others feel hot and sweaty.
Take care of the inflammation and decrease any of that extra swelling, the pain, the fluid by doing that, it eliminates the bacteria.
A continued flange that is too big creates a lot of swelling around the areola.
The correct flange size influences the comfort of the mom when she's pumping and how much milk will come out.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction and Overview
11:34 Understanding Letdown and Milk Flow
15:49 Breastfeeding Positions: Exploring Options
25:50 Preventing and Managing Mastitis
29:04 Individualized Approaches to Breastfeeding Challenges
32:24 Choosing the Correct Flange Size for Pumping
39:16 The Process of Weaning
44:06 The Importance of Individualized Support and Resources
48:25 Comfortable Nursing Bras and Nursing-Friendly Clothing
TALKING POINTS
breastfeeding, latch, positioning, nipple pain, letdown, breastfeeding positions, sore nipples, mastitis, inflammation, breastfeeding, pumping, mastitis, flange size, weaning, lactation consultant, support, resources, nursing bras, nursing-friendly clothing
RESOURCES
Silver Nipple Cups
Haakaa Ladybug Milk Collector
Haakaa
Manual breast pump
Quick Clean Sterilizing Bags
Breast Milk Storage Bags
Nipple Shield
Boppy Nursing Pillow
My Breast Friend Original Nursing Pillow
Cozy Cradle Nursing Pillow
Holly Hill
Holly Hill works with the Breezy Babies Team and has her own business called Light Up Lactation. She has been a nurse since 2005 and a lactation consultant since 2017. She love's teaching and working with families and babies. Her soapbox slogan is "Protect the Nipples All The Time!" When she's not out and about helping families, she can be found working on a creative project at home, camping, traveling with her husband and kids. She has a goal of an international trip once a year, and is often found planning her next adventure.
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