In a message dated 1/8/1 1:58:35 AM, [log in to unmask] writes:
<< I have read this comment several times recently, and I can't help but
believe some misunderstanding has now created a snowballing effect of
misinformation in the LC community.
I personally cannot envision how an epidural could have some special type
of effect just specifically upon the areola itself. I would certainly
like to hear feedback and references on this point.>>
Jean,
I do not imagine the effect would be only on the areola, either, but as the
mother pumps, it often seems to be the areola that shows the results of the
edema.
<snip>
<<my suspicion is that breast and generalized swelling have more to do with
multiple IV's. How many sacks did she have?>>
Yes, this is what meant by "effect of the epidural" in this situation.
<<As for the areolar edema, this area could be at special risk for edema
when a pump is used on a mother who has had multiple IV's.<snip>it stands to
reason that the vacuum will be filled with whatever combination of skin,
connective tissue, fluid, blood, milk, etc. that will move most easily in
that direction to try to equalize pressure.>>
Yes, this is what I also see. Often pumping makes it harder for a baby to
latch as the areola is left swollen.
One of my "mantras" is "Suction does not pull on milk. It pulls on
flesh." It is not uncommon for intracellular fluid to move within the
flesh subjected to suction, toward the space exposed to the vacuum.
Sometimes this is so pronounced that a thick enough layer of edema
develops in the outer layer to prevent effective compression of the
underlying milk sinuses by hand, by the baby, or by the pump.
That is one of the main reasons I prefer, for early milk harvesting and
stimulation:
>>
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