Tips & Tricks
Let’s Talk Montgomery Glands!
I’m a lactation counselor with Ardo. Let’s talk Montgomery glands! No, those little bumps around your nipples aren’t pimples! Nope, those little bumps surrounding your nipple on the on the areola are called Montgomery glands. They produce a natural oil that cleans,...
Different Babies = Different Milk!
Don’t compare what you pump to what other moms pump! Many moms worry that the milk they pump doesn’t look like what other moms have posted on social media – milk bottles filled with over 5oz of milk, a fat layer so think that the bottle can be turned over without...
Power Outage Pumping
Moms who rely on electricity for pumping breast milk, should think of additional options to power their electric breast pump. In the event of a power outage, especially one that lasts a day or more, parents can find themselves in a significant breastmilk removal bind. As a healthcare professional, I ask how long does this parent have before their milk supply suffers and adverse effects (pain, engorgement, plugged ducts) are felt?
Silicone “Breast Pumps” vs. True Manual Hand Pump
Although they have the word “pump” in the title, silicone “breast pumps” are not actual breast pumps. Instead, they should really be termed “silicone milk collectors”. These devices use suction to stay on the breast and are designed specifically to use on one breast...
Breast Milk Rainbow
Breast milk can take on a number of colors. We walk through the most common colors, causes and when to reach out to your doctor.
One of These Breasts Is Not Like the Other (When you have a slacker boob…)
Are you a member of the Wonky Boob Club? Do you have a Stud and a Dud? Do you ever pump both sides and silently yell at one side, “WHY aren’t you pulling your weight?!”
You’re not alone.
Yes, your pump is a closed system!
One of the most important features for you to look for when you are selecting your breast pump is the ability to clean your breast pump and have it stay clean. Yet, not all pumps come with this ability and risk the possibility of contaminating your milk. Breast pumps,...
Keeping Up Your Milk Supply When You Are Stressed
When you are scared, anxious, or stressed, the stress hormones (mainly Adrenaline, Cortisol, and Norepinephrine) coursing through your body inhibit the release of oxytocin.
Caffeine in Breast Milk
Hey sleepy mama, we know that parenting a little one can require an extra boost, especially around daylight savings time. If you’re wondering if it’s safe to drink that cup of coffee that’s calling out to you, the answer is YES!
Breast Milk Changes Throughout The Day
Did you know that the composition of your breast milk changes throughout the day to adapt to your baby’s needs? It’s more than just a meal – it’s also a clock that provides time-of-day information to your growing baby.
Closed System vs. Open System Pump: Why This Difference Matters
Not all pumps are a true closed system, even when they claim to be.
Does More Pump Suction = Increased Milk Output?
When it comes to breast pumps, we need to stop viewing vacuum strength (suction) as the determining factor of a good pump.