The Knapp Clinic- Infant Feeding & New Parent Health

09/22/2025

09/08/2025

Did you know….hormones play a key role in breastfeeding by helping the body produce and release milk. Prolactin makes the milk, while oxytocin helps release it when the baby nurses. These hormones are triggered by signals from the baby, ensuring a smooth and natural feeding process.

Prolactin – The Milk Maker
What it does: Stimulates the breasts to produce milk.
When it’s active: Levels rise during pregnancy and spike each time the baby nurses.
Where it comes from: Made by the pituitary gland in the brain.

Oxytocin – The Milk Releaser
What it does: Causes the muscles around the milk-producing glands to squeeze, pushing milk out (“let-down reflex”).
Also helps: Strengthens the emotional bond between mom and baby.
When it’s active: Released during nursing and even when mom hears or thinks about her baby.
Where it comes from: Also made by the pituitary gland.

To simplify..
Prolactin is like a factory worker making milk.
Oxytocin is like the delivery driver sending it out to the baby.

The Ongoing Cycle
The more often the baby nurses, the more prolactin is released → the more milk is made.
Frequent feeding helps build and maintain a good milk supply.

How It All Works Together
1. Baby suckles at the breast.
2. Nerve signals go to the brain.
3. Brain releases:
• Prolactin → makes milk.
• Oxytocin → releases milk.
4. Milk flows to the ni**le → baby feeds.

09/01/2025

While the rest of the world was grilling hot dogs, some of us were breathing through contractions and bringing a baby into the world — one push at a time.

Labor Day took on a whole new meaning!

Happy Labor Day to all the moms who really earned the title on this day.💪❤️

08/25/2025

Breastfeeding is a mother’s gift to herself and her baby. In those quiet moments, love flows freely—not just in milk, but in connection, comfort, and trust.

08/20/2025

Wondering if your baby is latching well? Here are 9 signs that breastfeeding is off to a strong start 👇

1️⃣ Baby’s mouth is wide open with lips flanged
2️⃣ More ar**la is visible above the top lip than below
3️⃣ Chin deeply touching the breast
4️⃣ Rhythmic sucking + visible or audible swallows
5️⃣ Ni**le looks round (not flattened) after feeding
6️⃣ No sharp or lasting ni**le pain
7️⃣ Baby seems full and content after feeding
8️⃣ Baby is gaining weight and making enough wet/dirty diapers
9️⃣ Your breast feels softer post-feed

💬 Pain, pinched ni**les, or shallow latching? Those are signs something’s off. YOUR ARE NOT ALONE— working with a lactation consultant can make a world of difference!

08/03/2025

If you are interested in doula work check this out!

07/31/2025

We are so excited to have this service in Bowling Green! Missy is an amazing OT/CST and does wonderful work on babies and adults! Check out her services!

07/28/2025

Families! Here is a chance to give feedback about the use of cannabis and breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding & Cannabis: We Need Your Voice
Are you a parent, healthcare provider, lactation consultant, or part of the cannabis industry? We’re exploring real-world solutions to support families navigating breastfeeding and cannabis use—and we want to hear from YOU. Whether you’ve faced challenges, helped others, or have insights to share, your perspective can shape better resources and care. 💚

Just fill out the form below, and we’ll reach out to set up a time to chat. Let’s work together to create real change.

Survey Link: http://bit.ly/46tpeQn

07/27/2025

Being a new mom can be scary and full of worry! It's okay mama! You know yourself and your baby better than you think you do! You are doing a great job!

07/20/2025

We are out of office July 21st - 25th! Calls and messages from current patients will be answered/returned daily. New appointment requests will be contacted when we return on July 28th. Have a great week!

06/11/2025

Come out to this great event on Saturday!

🌿 You're invited to The Climb 2025! 🌿

Join us as we come together to raise awareness for maternal mental health and show support for all the parents in our community. 💚

📅 Saturday, June 14th
🕑 2:00 – 4:00 PM
📍 The Foundry, 531 W 11th Ave, Bowling Green, KY

This free, family-friendly event will include games, activities, community resources, and so much more. Whether you're a parent, supporter, or advocate—your voice matters. Let’s walk in solidarity and celebrate the strength of all who’ve faced the journey of parenthood.

Hosted by the KY Chapter of Postpartum Support International—this is our 4th year in Bowling Green, and we can't wait to see you there! 💪👣

RSVP here: https://www.facebook.com/share/1FEYsmA8DB/