ALERT

We are experiencing high call volumes in response to expanded COVID vaccination scheduling. Vaccine supplies in Idaho are limited. Please do not call St. Luke’s clinics directly regarding COVID-19 vaccination. Appointments are made through myChart as vaccine is available; we are not able to accommodate walk-ins. Unless you need to call for an emergency, you are encouraged to use myChart for questions and appointments at this time. Find additional information here.
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Let-Down Reflex

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Let-Down Reflex

Let-down is the process by which milk is released from the milk glands to the milk ducts in preparation for breastfeeding. When a breastfeeding woman's breasts are stimulated by suckling or pumping, the pituitary gland produces the hormone oxytocin, which triggers the let-down reflex.

Signs of let-down include:

  • A tingling sensation in the nipples, sometimes with mild pain.
  • Milk leaking from the breast before nursing or pumping, or leaking from one breast while the baby is nursing at the other breast. Some women may experience let-down when they hear a baby cry.

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