Intro To The Value Of Breastfeeding And Human Milk

Question 1

Why does breastfeeding matter for the baby?

Answer 1

Natural form of protection against a range of illnesses including infection, diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)

Question 2

Why does breastfeeding matter for the mother?

Answer 2

Natural form of protection against breast and ovarian cancer, heart disease and osteoporosis. Temporarily reduces fertility

Question 3

What’s so special about human milk?

Answer 3

As it hasn’t been pasteurised it has live microbes, which are essential for colonising the baby with healthy bacteria
Protects the baby’s gut - newborns have a ‘leaky’ gut which harmful bacteria can latch on to

Question 4

Transfer of immunoglobulins to support baby’s immune system
IgM, IgA, IgD, IgG, IgE

Answer 4

IgM: present in breastmilk, increases responsiveness to vaccine compared to formula fed babies
IgA: first line of defence that invade humans from mucosa. Coats gut wall and protects mucosal surfaces against entry of pathogens
IgD: combats disease without causing inflammation
IgG: transfers across placenta and through breastmilk, therefore passive immunity will be maintained
IgE: small quantities of breastmilk for a longer period than in cow’s milk

Question 5

What is UNICEF Baby Friendly Initiative (BFI)?

Answer 5

BFI enables public services to support families with feeding and developing relationships with their baby

Question 6

What are the barriers to breastfeeding?

Answer 6

Education
Pain and associated conditions
Economical and political decisions
Societal expectations