Breastfeeding Flashcards
How many babies in Scotland are currently breastfed from birth and how many are still being breastfed at 6-8 weeks?
65% of babies born in 2018-19 were breastfed
At 6-8 weeks; 43% of babies are still breastfed
How have breastfeeding rates changes since 2011?
Increase in exclusive breastfeeding by 1.4% since 2011
Increased in any breastfeeding by 6.1% since 2011
What are positive factors on breastfeeding?
Increased maternal age Higher educational level Being married Supportive partner Higher socio-economic status Early timing of feeding decision Cultural and family traditions of breastfeeding Previous exposure to breastfeeding for first time mothers Positive maternal attitude Previous positive experience
What are negative influences on breastfeeding?
Smoking Embarrassment Poor obstetric experience Low birth weight A belief that breastmilk is too thin Physical environment esp privacy
What is present in colostrum?
High levels of IgG esp lactoferrin Strong anti-inflammatory effect Stimulates gut growth Acts as a laxative High in sodium and potassium chloride Initiates acidic pH environment Sets up baby for life outside the womb
What is the impact of skin to skin in terms of breastfeeding?
All mothers are encouraged to offer first feed in skin contact when baby shows signs
All mothers should have skin-skin contact with baby after birth until after 1st feed and for as long as they wish
Why should skin contact be protected?
Triggers lactation and mothering hormones
Regulates temperature, HR and breathing
Colonises baby with microbes from mother, father and environment
Stimulates feeding behaviour
Reduces stress hormones in mother and baby
What is the commonest reason for stopped breastfeeding?
Mothers believe that they are produced insufficient milk
When would milk be insufficient?
Ineffective attachment
Infrequent feeding; should be around 8-12 times a day at the start
What are signs of ineffective breastfeeding from the mother’s point of view?
Sore nipples Engorgement Mastitis Low milk production Loss of confidence
What are signs of ineffective breastfeeding from the baby’s point of view?
Feeding frequently Frustration Poor weight gain Jaundice Hypernatraemia
What is the recommendation surrounding mastitis?
Flucloxacillin or clindamycin
When should prescribed medications be taken whilst breastfeeding?
Taken as a single dose and should be administered before baby’s longest sleep period
Breastfeeding best done immediately before administration of dose and should be avoided for one/two hours after any dose (highest plasma conc)
