04 - MIDTERM - lec Flashcards
Physiological Changes Women Experiences During Lactation
Hormonal Changes
Prolactin
Oxytocin
Estrogen and Progesterone
This hormone increases significantly during pregnancy and continues to play a critical role during lactation. It stimulates milk production in the mammary glands.
Prolactin
Released in response to suckling, triggers the “let-down” reflex, facilitating the release of milk from the mammary glands. It also promotes uterine contractions, which can help the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size.
Oxytocin
Levels of these hormones decrease after childbirth, allowing prolactin to take effect and promoting lactation.
Estrogen and Progesterone
The breasts undergo extensive development during pregnancy, preparing for milk production. There is an increase in the number of milk-secreting alveoli and ductal structures.
Mammary Gland Development
Breast Changes
Mammary Gland Development
Increased Blood Flow
Nipple Changes
Functional Units of Mammary Gland
Alveoli
Secretory Cells
Myoepithelial cells
A rounded or oblong-shaped cavity present in the breast. Composed of a cluster of cells (secretory cells) with a duct in the center, whose job is to secrete milk.
Alveoli
Cells in the acinus (milk gland) that are responsible for secreting milk components into the ducts.
Secretory Cells
Specialized cells that line the alveoli and that can contract to cause milk to be secreted into the duct. Cells that surround the secretory cells.
Myoepithelial cells
This stage begins during pregnancy, typically around the second trimester. In this phase, the mammary glands prepare for milk production.
Stage 1
This stage occurs after childbirth, typically around 30 to 72 hours postpartum.
Stage II
The letdown reflex is primarily controlled by the hormone oxytocin.
Hormonal Control
The letdown reflex can also be triggered by physical cues such as the sound of a baby crying or even thinking about a baby.
Physical Cues
Lactating women typically need an additional 300-500 calories per day to support milk production
Increased Caloric Needs
The letdown may happen several times during a feeding session as the baby suckles, and it can sometimes be felt as a tingling sensation in the breasts.
Timing
Metabolic Changes
Increased Caloric Needs
Nutrient Utilization
Fat Mobilization
The body may utilize fat stores developed during pregnancy for energy, which can help in postpartum weight loss.
Fat Mobilization
There is a higher demand for certain nutrients, including calcium, vitamin D, and protein, to support both the mother’s health and milk quality.
Nutrient Utilization
Immune System Adjustments
Antibody Production
Maternal Adjustments
Changes in Psychological and Emotional State
Mood Flactuations
Bonding
The release of oxytocin during breastfeeding promotes strong maternal-infant bonding.
Bonding
Physical Changes
Body Composition
Uterine Contraction
Hormonal changes can lead to shifts in body weight and fat distribution.
Body Composition
are essential for successful breastfeeding and play a significant role in the overall health and well-being of both the mother and the infant
Physiological changes
Oxytocin not only aids in breastfeeding but also helps in contracting the uterus to reduce postpartum bleeding and promote healing.
Uterine Contraction
is a unique and complex fluid tailored to meet the nutritional needs of infants
Human milk (Breastmilk)
refer to the nutritional intake of women during pregnancy and lactation. Maternal nutrition is crucial as it significantly impacts both the mother’s health and the development of the fetus or infant
Maternal Diets
Pregnant women generally need an additional 300-500 calories per day, depending on their pre-pregnancy weight and activity level.
Increased Caloric Intake
Essential for the growth of fetal tissues, including the brain. Sources include lean meats, dairy, legumes, and nuts.
Protein
Should make up the majority of caloric intake, focusing on whole grains, fruits, and vegetables for fiber and nutrients.
Carbohydrates
Important for brain development, particularly omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds
Fats
Micronutrients need during pregnancy
Folic Acid - 400 to 800grams
Iron
Calcium
Vitamin D
Foods need during pregnancy
Fruits and Vegetables
Whole Grains
Lean Proteins
Dairy or Alternatives
Foods to Avoid or Limit
High Mercury Fish
Raw or Undercooked Meat/Eggs
Processed Foods
Caffeine and Alcohol
Caused by Listeria monocytogenes, this can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or severe illness in newborns. High-risk foods include unpasteurized dairy products, deli meats, hot dogs, and refrigerated smoked seafood.
Listeriosis
Caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, it can come from undercooked meat or contaminated fruits and vegetables.
Toxoplasmosis
Frequently associated with raw or undercooked eggs, poultry, and meat
Salmonella
Should be heated until steaming hot to kill potential Listeria bacteria.
Deli Meats and Hot Dogs
Benefits of breastmilk to INFANTS
- Nutritional Excellence
- Immune System Support
- Reduce the risk of Chronic Conditions
- Enhance Cognitive Development
- Better Digestion
- Reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
- Allergy Prevention
Benefits of breastfeeding to the mothers
- Promotes bonding
- Postpartum Recovery
- Weight Mangement
- Reduce risk of Certain Cancers
- Convenience and Cost-Effectiveness
- Hormonal Benefits
- Emotional Well being
Breastfeeding fosters a close bond between mother and baby due to skin-to-skin contact and the release of oxytocin, promoting maternal affection and attachment.
Promotes Bonding
Breastfeeding helps the uterus contract back to its original size more quickly and reduces bleeding after delivery.
Postpartum Recovery
Breastfeeding burns extra calories, which can help mothers return to their pre-pregnancy weight more easily.
Weight Management
Breastfeeding can delay the return of menstruation, which may aid in natural birth spacing
Hormonal Benefits
The nurturing act of breastfeeding can promote a sense of well-being and reduce the risk of postpartum depression.
Emotional Well-Being
Initial steps for breastfeeding
- start early
- skin to skin contact
Frequency and duration during breastfeeding
- feed on demand
- let the baby feed
Position during breastfeeding
- comfortable position
- latch
Nutrition and hydration for mothers
- balanced diet
- stay hydrated
Support and resources
- seek help
- family support
Self care for mothers
- rest
- monitor health
Considerations and Challenges
- pain and discormfort
- return to work
Special considerations
Cultural and Dietary Preferences
weight management
gestational diabetes
Diets should be adapted to meet cultural norms and individual dietary restrictions (e.g., vegetarianism, lactose intolerance).
Cultural and Dietary Preferences
is especially important for pregnant and lactating women, as their immune systems are more vulnerable, and they need to ensure both their own health and the health of their developing or nursing infants.
Food safety
Raw and Undercooked Foods
Meats and poultry
Eggs
Fish
Food Storage and Handling
Cross contamination
Proper storage
Freezing