FAQ #9 How can I prevent breastmilk leakage?

There are some simple tips to avoid breastmilk leakage accidents.

I breastfed my first daughter for 10 months and my second daughter for 2 years and NEVER ONCE had a wet shirt. Did my breasts leak? You Betcha, but I followed these simple steps to make sure I minimized the possibility of an accident.

#1 Empty at regular intervals. Do not miss feedings/pumpings. This is especially important if you are working. And Yes, you do have to empty at night. As soon as you feel full or feel a letdown, it is time. Your body will let you know.

#2 Use breastpads to catch leakage (if you have excessive leaking there is a product called lily pads that you might find very useful.

Don't forget to change your pads as soon as they become wet to avoid getting a yeast infection (thrush) #3 Apply pressure to the nipple for 15-20 seconds when you feel let down to reduce flow. Say what? Yes, this simple action will stop the flow in 15-30 seconds. Just like if you had a gushing wound anywhere on your body, apply pressure! If you are in a meeting, you can get creative and cross your arms over your nipples. (lol) You still need to go empty ASAP.

You will go through MANY nursing pads in the first weeks of breastfeeding as your body adjusts your supply. But as feedings and your supply levels off, you will leak less and less. In my classes, I recommend using disposable pads in the first few weeks, because they absorb FAST and work great. But then after you see your not leaking as much, you can switch to the cotton washable ones. Wearing nursing pads is your insurance policy not to have a wet shirt. And in my opinion you should wear them until your supply is gone.

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Contact me:

Want to schedule a class, rent/buy a breastpump in the DFW area or schedule a lactation visit?
Email me at [email protected] or call me at 817-380-5929

(Please note I do NOT answer breastfeeding questions via email/phone for free. Use the Ask me a question page for free question submission.


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