Question 1

What is the Lactation Lab?

Accepted Answer

We are a team that focuses on research on lactation, tailored to post-partum mothers and infants.

Question 2

What are the objectives of the Lactation Lab?

Accepted Answer

Breastfeeding has been proven to be beneficial for both mothers and infants in the initial post-partum period but also long-term. Our goal is to optimize lactation in mothers by identifying modifiable determinants of lactation, and by doing so, improve maternal and infant health. Another one of our objectives is to provide valuable resources regarding lactation to mothers during the post-partum period.

Question 3

Why are my baby and I eligible?

Accepted Answer

You and your baby are eligible because you delivered a healthy term baby, and you plan to breastfeed your child.

Question 4

Will you use my samples for other purposes other than stated?

Accepted Answer

We will continue to store “leftover” samples in the event that future tests can be run that will provide valuable information that can positively influence lactation and the health of women and children.

Question 5

What are the risks of being a participant?

Accepted Answer

We do not anticipate any physical or psychological risk to you or your baby by being part of this study.

Question 6

What do I do if the sample collection kit is damaged or broken?

Accepted Answer

We try our best to deliver the sample kits in perfect condition, but if one or more kits or any of its parts are damaged, we encourage you to reach out to us and we will deliver another kit as soon as possible.

Question 7

Who do I contact if I have any questions?

Accepted Answer

If you have any questions or concerns you can reach out to us anytime via email at lactationlab@bwh.harvard.edu.

Question 8

Do I have to pay for the shipping costs?

Accepted Answer

All shipping and return costs will be covered by the Lactation Lab.

Question 9

Will I have access to the results of the tests?

Accepted Answer

You will not have access to individual results of any test made to the samples; however, you can have access to the findings published during and after the completion of this study.

Question 10

Can my baby and I participate in the study after being discharged?

Accepted Answer

Yes. As long as the eligibility criteria are met and we are still able to collect the samples and complete the questionnaires and assessments, you and your baby are eligible to participate.

Question 11

What will happen if I forget an appointment?

Accepted Answer

We will try our best to send you timely reminders to collect the samples for every visit. If for some reason you need to reschedule the last in-person visit, we will try to find another date that is convenient for you.

Question 12

What if I want to stop breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

That is a personal decision and we always respect your choice. The lactation lab will offer lactation support at no cost to you if this is something that you choose. Understanding why and when women stop breastfeeding is one of the objectives of the Lactation Lab, so we hope that you choose to continue in the study even after/if you decide to stop breastfeeding.

Question 13

Will giving away my breastmilk harm my baby in any way?

Accepted Answer

Collection of small samples of breastmilk for the study will not be harmful for the health of your baby. This study will only require a very small portion of your milk production at 5 different points in time during a 2-year period.

Question 14

What happens if I have insufficient production of milk?

Accepted Answer

Every breastfeeding session is different and milk production can vary greatly depending on your baby’s needs and many other factors. If you believe you have insufficient milk production we recommend you talk about this with your physician.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS