Importance Of Breastfeeding And Human Milk LO

Question 1

My own perceptions of breastfeeding

Answer 1

Nutritious for baby and gives them the best start in life

Question 2

Immunoglobulins to support babies in immune system

Answer 2

IgM - present in breast milk, increased response to vaccines
IgA - first line of defence against pathogens, coats gut wall to protect against bacteria
IgD - combats disease without causing inflammation
IgG - transfers across placenta and through breast milk, passive immunity is maintained
IgE - small quantities in breast milk over a long period of time, implications unknown

Question 3

Explain the value of breastfeeding for baby, mother and society

Answer 3

Baby: natural form of protection against illness e.g. diabetes, obesity
Mother: natural form of protection against breast and ovarian cancer and heart disease
Society: mitigates effects of poverty and promotes health equity

Question 4

Difference between human milk and formula

Answer 4

Constituents of the milk change as baby grows
Contains live microbes as isn’t pasteurised so colonises baby with healthy bacteria
Human milk coats the gut to prevent harmful bacteria colonising, treating “leaky gut”

Question 5

Recognise barriers to breastfeeding

Answer 5

Lack of education
Formula industry
Pain and associated conditions - mastitis/sore nipples
Social expectations

Question 6

Explain impact of BFI

Answer 6

Transforms healthcare for babies and their mothers
Enables better services to support feeding families
Develops standards for nurses and students

Question 7

Describe physiological and hormoal changes during skin to skin

Answer 7

Stimulates prolactin and oxytocin
Calms mother and baby
Regulates baby’s temperature and heart rate
Stimulates breast seeking behaviour
Endorphin release

Question 8

Recognise the 9 stages of neonatal behaviour immediately after birth

Answer 8

1) birth cry
2) relaxation
3) awakening
4) activity
5) rest
6) crawling
7) familiarisation
8) suckling
9) sleep

Question 9

Explain how to safely facilitate skin to skin

Answer 9

Naked baby on mothers bare chest
Only happens if mum and baby are well enough
Baby’s head is turned
Use dry blankets

Question 10

Explain how to safely facilitate laid back breastfeeding

Answer 10

Baby lay across mothers abdomen
Gravity works with babies innate reflexes

Question 11

Describe the role of colostrum for immunity and physical growth

Answer 11

Concentrated nutrition
Packed with protective factors
Small volumes
Laxative effect - clears meconium