abscess
An abscess is a painful, pus-filled lump in the breast caused by a bacterial infection.
Breastfeeding Glossary Terms
Learn about how your incredible body works.
areola
The areola is a pigmented area around the nipple that contains Montgomery glands and helps a baby find the breast.
Australian hold
The Australian hold, or koala hold, has your baby straddling your thigh while upright.
avoiding tight clothing
Avoiding tight clothing helps prevent blocked ducts and supports milk flow.
blessed thistle
Blessed thistle is a herb believed to act as a galactagogue that increases milk supply.
breast
The breast is a glandular organ on the chest with lobules that produce milk and ducts that transport it.
breast alveoli
Alveoli are grape-like clusters in the breast that produce and store milk.
breast compression
Breast compression involves squeezing your breast during nursing to increase milk flow.
breastmilk storage bags
Breastmilk storage bags are plastic bags designed for storing and freezing milk.
brewer’s yeast
Brewer’s yeast is a type of yeast rich in B vitamins, protein, and minerals that may help boost milk supply.
carbohydrates
Carbohydrates from your diet give energy to you and your baby.
cluster feeding
Cluster feeding involves frequent feeding sessions that support a baby’s growth.
colic
Colic is when a baby cries a lot and is hard to soothe for no clear reason.
colostrum
Colostrum is the first milk, thick and yellowish, rich in nutrients and antibodies.
colostrum harvesting
Colostrum harvesting is expressing and storing the first milk produced.
cooper’s ligament
Cooper’s ligament is a connective tissue that supports and maintains the shape of your breasts.
cradle hold
Cradle hold is a breastfeeding position where your baby’s head rests in the crook of your elbow.
cross-cradle hold
The cross-cradle hold, or front cross hold, supports your baby with the opposite arm.
double electric breast pump
A double electric breast pump extracts milk from both breasts at once.
double football hold
The double football hold positions each baby under your arms like a football.
dry heat
Dry heat refers to high temperatures without moisture, used for therapeutic breastfeeding treatments.
electric breast pump
An electric breast pump uses a motor to extract milk from the breasts.
engorgement
Engorgement is when your breasts are swollen and painful due to too much milk.
expressed breastmilk
Expressed breastmilk is collected manually or with a breast pump.