Breastfeeding - Management of Common Breastfeeding Issues

Hyperactive Letdown

A hyperactive letdown is an extremely fast and forceful ejection of milk from the nipple. Babies gulp and may choke as they try to keep up with the milk flow. The letdown reflex in these mothers is often painful. Here are some suggestions that may help in this situation.

• Control the flow after a letdown reflex by applying gentle pressure against the nipple using a clean absorbent cloth.
• Express milk until the flow slows down then allow the baby to latch on.
• Wear absorbent breast pads. Avoid pads with plastic sheeting in them.