Help for Milk Leaking From the Breasts
Let-down is the flow of milk to the breasts that
occurs when they are stimulated by feeding or pumping. It can also happen when
you hear a baby cry or think about your baby, and it often causes milk to leak
from your breasts.
- Wear breast pads to prevent leaking breasts from
soaking your clothing. They can be purchased or you can make your own pads
using soft and absorbent material, such as a handkerchief or pieces of a cloth
diaper. Change the pads often. Moisture that collects in them may cause
irritation or infection.
- If your breasts leak milk when you are not
feeding or pumping, press gently but firmly on your nipples with the palms of
your hands or your fists. This usually stops the milk from leaking
out.
- Do not use plastic bra liners or plastic-lined breast pads,
because they hold in moisture that can cause irritation and promote
infection.
| By | Healthwise Staff |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Mary Robbins, RNC, IBCLC - Lactation Consultant |
| Last Revised | April 13, 2011 |
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Last Revised:
April 13, 2011