Lactation of suckling by the baby. The milk ejection reflex (also called let-down reflex) is not always consistent, especially at first. Once a woman is conditioned to nursing, let-down can be triggered by a variety of stimuli, including the sound of any baby. Even thinking about breastfeeding can stimulate this reflex, causing unwanted leakage, or both breasts may give out milk when an infant is feeding from one breast. However, this and other problems often settle after two weeks of feeding. Stress or anxiety can cause difficulties with breastfeeding. The release of the hormone oxytocin leads to the "milk ejection" or
Birthing ball often used during natural childbirth. Birthing ball A birthing ball or labor ball is a large air–filled rubber ball (a gym ball about in diameter) that a woman can sit on during labor. A birthing ball allows the woman to rock back and forth seated on a softer surface. A woman on a birthing ball may need a support person to keep her steady. A birthing ball may be especially useful during back labor. Hospital policies on birthing balls vary, in part because the balls provide a somewhat unsteady seat, some hospitals are concerned about their safety if a woman