Lactation Flashcards
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What hormones are important in lactation?
Oxytocin and prolactin
What is the role of prolactin in lactation?
Stimulates milk secretion
What is the role of oxytocin in lactation?
Ejection of milk in response to nipple suckling (stimulates prolactin secretion, producing more milk secretion)
How much milk can be generated per day?
Demand dependent, 1000ml+
What can restrict lactation?
Emotional and physical stress (as oxytocin release regulated by hypothalamus)
What is produced in the first 3 days of breastfeeding?
Colostrum (contains fat-laden cells, protein inc IgA and minerals) passed before milk ‘comes in’
What happens to the breasts at 3-4d?
Red
Tender
Physiological engorgement
How often should a woman feed the baby initially?
On demand, gentle encouragement when baby is ready
What is important when getting the baby to suckle?
Positioning
Lower lip of baby should be planted below nipple at the time the mouth opens in preparation for receiving, so entire nipple is drawn into mouth
Why is correct positioning of the baby prior to feeding important?
Prevents:
- Insufficient milk
- Engorgement
- Mastitis
- Nipple trauma
Is supplementation necessary in breastfeeding?
No, but Vit K IM should be given to prevent haemorrhagic disease of the newborn
