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.
carbohydrates
Carbohydrates from your diet give energy to you and your baby.
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.
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.
fats
Fats in breastmilk are essential for your baby’s brain and eye development.
feeding cues
Feeding cues are the signs babies give to indicate hunger or fullness.
feeding on demand
Feeding on demand is feeding your baby whenever they show hunger signs.
flanged lips
Flanged lips are when a baby’s lips are outward while latched to the breast.