Lullabies Sleep Glossary
Welcome to the Lullabies Sleep Glossary! As a sleep consultant for young children and babies, I'm committed to helping you understand the ins and outs of your child's sleep without confusing jargon. This page is designed to clarify any terms that might seem complicated at first glance.
Here, you'll find simple explanations of key phrases and concepts that I use in my practice. Whether you're a first-time parent or have been through the bedtime battles before, this resource is here to ensure you're equipped with the knowledge you need for a smoother sleep journey with your little one.
A clogged milk duct occurs when there is a blockage in one of the milk ducts, resulting in a small, tender lump on the breast. It can be caused by factors such as changes in feeding patterns, inadequate breast drainage, or tight clothing. Continuing to breastfeed is essential to help clear the duct. Additionally, changing feeding positions, applying warm compresses, and gentle massage can aid in relieving the blockage.
Cluster feeding refers to a period when a baby's feeding sessions occur closely together, often appearing back-to-back. This pattern is commonly observed before a growth spurt or in the evenings before an extended stretch of sleep at night.
Colostrum is the thick, yellowish fluid produced by the breasts during the initial days after childbirth. Often referred to as"liquid gold," colostrum is rich in essential nutrients and antibodies, providing vital nourishment and immune support to the newborn.
A period of uninterrupted sleep that usually lasts 6-8 hours.
This is the time you would ideally like your child to wake up. Most babies and children are naturally early risers, so whilst we can usually work on and improve this if it’s one of your sleep goals, often this is the last piece of the puzzle to slot into place and needs lots of time and patience!
I use this technique to help where your child is having regular early morning wake-ups before your desired wake time.
Breast pump valves vary by shape. A duckbill valve – you guessed it – resembles a flat, wide duck bill. Some moms notice better suction or output from certain types of valves, so it's worth experimenting if you're looking for better results.
When your child wakes up earlier than desired, often before you would like them to get out of bed. Generally, an early wake-up is classified as waking up an hour or more before your desired wake time, or before 6am.
Engorgement happens when the breasts become overfilled with milk, typically occurring as milk production increases or if feedings are missed. This can lead to discomfort or pain. Techniques such as warm showers and warm compresses can help alleviate engorgement before feedings.
Flanges are a key part of your breast pump. Similar in shape to a funnel, flanges make a vacuum-style seal with your breasts so the pump can draw out milk. Choosing the right size flange for your nipple can help you avoid injury and get good results.
Foremilk is the initial milk released during breastfeeding, while hindmilk is the richer, higher-fat milk that follows. The balance between foremilk and hindmilk is crucial for providing optimal nutrition to the baby. Monitoring the baby's comfort and stool frequency can help determine if they are receiving the appropriate balance.
Did you know you can express your breastmilk by hand, no pump needed? Hand expressing can help relieve engorged breasts, stimulate production or produce milk to feed your baby. It's not a complicated process but it can feel tricky to get the hang of on your first go. How-to videos can help you perfect your technique.
Latch refers to the way a baby attaches to the breast during feeding. A proper latch ensures effective milk transfer and prevents discomfort or nipple damage for the mother. Achieving a good latch may require guidance and support from a lactation consultant.
Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast tissue, often caused by an infection. Symptoms may include breast swelling, redness, pain, fever, or flu-like symptoms. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, rest, and continued breastfeeding to clear the infection.
A milk bleb, also known as a milk blister, is a small, white spot on the nipple surface. It can result from an improper latch or other factors. While usually resolving on its own, it can be painful. Maintaining good hygiene and breastfeeding technique can help alleviate discomfort.
When a child is not napping during the day, this term refers to techniques used to help them get back on track. When you 'rescue' a nap, you do whatever you need to do to get your child back to sleep! This could be a car nap/stroller nap/contact nap etc.
This term refers to when a child wakes up during the night, either briefly or for a longer period of time. This can be caused by a variety of factors and is an issue that many families struggle with.
Babies taking breastmilk or formula from a bottle sometimes eat too quickly or too much. Paced bottle feeding mimics the way your baby would feed from your breast. You can help your baby control the milk flow by using a small bottle with a slow-flow nipple and by holding it horizontally. Taking breaks every few swallows will also help your baby learn to eat at a slower, steadier pace.
A technique often used in sleep coaching to help reassure your child that it’s ok to go to sleep, both at bedtime and for night waking.
Sleep that is deep and rejuvenating, which helps the body to heal and recharge.
Habits that become associated with falling asleep, such as rocking or nursing the baby to sleep, or playing music for the child to fall back asleep. Not all sleep associations are bad, and we may even introduce some depending on the needs of your little one.
Behaviours that help promote healthy sleeping habits. Examples include avoiding caffeine late in the day, establishing a regular bedtime routine, limiting screen time before bed, and creating an environment conducive to sleep.
The time it takes to fall asleep from when you lay down in bed. It is a measure of how quickly one falls asleep and can be used to identify areas for improvement.
A phenomenon where, after being deprived of sleep over several days, one sleeps much longer than usual when they are able to get enough restorative sleep.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend breastfeeding exclusively for your baby's first four to six months. During this time, your provider will stay in close contact with you to offer support and help with any challenges you face.
If your baby isn't gaining enough weight, your provider might refer you to a lactation consultant. These highly trained professionals can help you resolve any milk supply or latch issues. In some cases, they might also recommend supplementing your breast milk with formula.
Thrush is a fungal infection caused by Candida yeast, commonly affecting both mother and baby during breastfeeding. Symptoms include white patches in the baby's mouth and feeding difficulties. Treatment often involves antifungal medication for both mother and baby to prevent recurrence.
The length of time that most children can cope with between either a nap or overnight sleep.
Still have questions?
If there's something you still aren't sure of or don't understand, don't ever hesitate to get in touch.