The Lactamo Ball is designed for lactation aid and to help with the most common breastfeeding issues in particular undersupply, blocked milk ducts, and engorgement. Extensive studies recommend breast massage in lactation and the combination of temperature, movement and compression for the resolution of breastfeeding issues. These three components have the ability to improve blood circulation and facilitate lymph drainage. Breast massage in lactation also has the ability to improve the quality of breastmilk by increasing total solids, lipids, casein concentration and gross energy. Breast massage and temperature can be very beneficial for breastfeeding mothers, and have the ability to resolve the common breastfeeding problems. Lactamo lactation aid facilitates breast massage, it is a soft ball specifically designed for breast tissue. It can be heated or cooled (depending on requirements) and is applied directly to breast tissue. Lactamo can be used before, during or after breastfeeding, and also in the shower.
Lactamo’s design is versatile, created in consultation with Lactation Healthcare Professionals. The sphere is made from medical grade silicone – as soft as jelly and it is filled with non-toxic gel. Around the middle, the lumps are solid, and on the two ends the lumps are hollow. Lactamo has larger lumps on one side and smaller lumps on the other side. A woman’s breastfeeding requirements are often changing, and you can use Lactamo’s versatile design to provide comfort and suit your own changing needs.
It can be heated in water and/or cooled in the freezer and is reusable and versatile.
General use
Lactamo is heated by submerging it in boiling water for 3 minutes. Lactamo can also be heated by placing it in a conventional steam steriliser for one cycle. If Lactamo ever develops an air bubble this means that it has been overheated, and it should be discarded and not used again.
Before applying Lactamo to breast tissue, check that it is not too hot by rolling it in the palms of your hands for 10 seconds. Lactamo is at an optimal warm temperature for breast tissue when it is able to be held in the palm of the user’s hand comfortably.
Lactamo can be cooled in the freezer (preferably for at least an hour), or in a glass of iced water for 3 minutes. A good approach if you’re suffering from inflammation or engorgement.
Lactamo can be washed in water and with mild soap.
If problems persist, or if in doubt, stop using Lactamo and consult a healthcare professional.
Below are some of the challenges that are associated with breastfeeding and Lactamo can help overcome these.
Undersupply
For a few minutes before a feed (or pump), roll your heated Lactamo over the surface of the breast, always massaging towards the nipple. This is aimed at helping to stimulate milk production, boost blood flow and encourage the let-down reflex. Continue this process for as long as possible throughout the feed (taking care not to disrupt the baby’s attachment to your nipple). Continue this process after the feed, always rolling your heated Lactamo over the surface of the breast towards the nipple.
Oversupply
Oversupply when feeding your baby can lead to a too fast delivery, making it difficult for your baby to get the right amount of milk in a steady manner. One approach is to pump first to relieve the engorgement, but this process can stimulate even more milk, leading to an over-oversupply and blocked ducts. If there is tension with oversupply, heated Lactamo may be rolled over the surface of the breast (always massaging towards the nipple), to assist with draining and to encourage the let-down reflex (if necessary). However, don’t otherwise use heated Lactamo for oversupply, as it may stimulate even more milk production. After the feed, apply your cooled Lactamo to the surface of the breast (but avoid any compression or massage) for soothing and relief.
Blocked Milk Ducts
For a few minutes before a feed (or pump), roll heated Lactamo over the surface of the breast, focusing on the blocked ducts (which may present as a lump). Always massage towards the nipple, applying firm but comfortable pressure to the breast. Continue this process as much as possible throughout the feed (taking care not to affect the baby’s attachment to the nipple). Mild mastitis usually occurs because of blocked milk ducts. Lactamo allows mums to apply heat, movement and compression, focusing on encouraging blockages to clear, encouraging milk to flow, and also providing relief. Massage and heat can cause redness on the surface of the breast, but if you develop a distinct redness on the surface of the breast which is not from massage, or develop a fever, then consult a health professional, as this may be a sign of infection.
Engorgement
For a few minutes before a feed (or pump), roll heated Lactamo over the surface of the breast, focusing on the engorged areas (which may feel lumpy and/or swollen). Always massage towards the nipple, applying firm but comfortable pressure to the breast. Continue this process (if it feels comfortable) throughout the feed (taking care not to affect the baby’s attachment to the nipple). Focus on these particularly sensitive or tender spots to help relieve the pressure of engorgement and encourage good drainage. After the feed, gently apply your cooled Lactamo to the breast (but avoid any compression or massage) for soothing and relief.
