My name is Cathryn Britton. I am the mother of Tom who is nearly two
years old and still enjoying breastfeeding. I have a background in
Midwifery and medical anthropology. When I had Tom, several issues came to
my mind about my knowledge of breastfeeding as a health professional and
my experience as a mother. During my maternity leave I began a research
study of women's expectations and realities of breastfeeding. One theme
which arose was women's ideas about the let down reflex e.g sensations
experienced and its significance to them. I am now in the process of
writing up my findings and wonder if any one can help me with the
following. The physiology of lactation has been described scientifically.
Does any one have any references to the person who first described 'the
letdown reflex'? In the older medical books this reflex is known as the
draught reflex - why did the name change to 'let down'?  Please email me
on [log in to unmask], I look forward to hearing from you.
Best Wishes,
Cathryn