What is a Breastfeeding Let-Down Reflex?

A let-down reflex or milk ejection reflex is a conditioned reflex ejecting milk from the alveoli through the ducts to the sinuses of the breast and the nipple.
This reflex makes it easier to breastfeed your baby. Let-down happens a few seconds to several minutes after you start breastfeeding your baby. It can happen a few times during a feeding, too.

You may feel a tingle in your breast or you may feel a little uncomfortable. Keep in mind that some women don’t feel anything.
Let-down can happen at other times, too, such as when you hear your baby cry or when you may just be thinking about your baby. If your milk lets down as more of a gush and it bothers your baby, try expressing some milk by hand before you start breastfeeding.

Return from Breastfeeding Let Down Reflex to Breastfeeding Principles

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