1. Breastfeeding
Ajk Robertson
18/05/17

2. Physiology – anatomy

3. Physiology - hormones
During pregnancy: ↑ progesterone/oestrogen → growth
After pregnancy: ↓ progesterone/oestrogen, ↑ prolactin (anterior pituitary) → milk production
↑ oxytocin (hypothalamus [released from posterior pituitary]) → milk ejection

4. Composition Component Colostrum Milk Volume ~40ml/day
Responds to demand
Sugar ↓ ↑
Fat
Protein
IgA
Composition

5. Benefits to baby Reduced incidence of: Gastro-intestinal infection
Respiratory infections
Necrotising enterocolitis (preterm babies)
Urinary tract infections
Ear infections
Allergic disease (eczema and wheezing)
Insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus
Sudden infant death syndrome
Childhood leukaemia

6. Benefits to mother Increased skin to skin contact with baby
Promotion of attachment
Involution of uterus
Lower risk of breast and ovarian cancer
Lower risk of hip fractures
Prevention of rheumatoid arthritis

7. What WHO says Should be exclusively breastfed until 6 months
Should have some breastfeeding until at least 2 years
NHS has adopted this guidance

8. UK Rates of breastfeeding (Any and exclusive)
Data from NHS infant feeding survey 2010

9. UK Rates of breastfeeding (Any and exclusive)
Data from NHS infant feeding survey 2010

10. UK Rates of breastfeeding (Any and exclusive)
Data from NHS infant feeding survey 2010

11. UK Rates of breastfeeding (Any and exclusive)
Data from NHS infant feeding survey 2010

12. UK Rates of breastfeeding (Any and exclusive)
Data from NHS infant feeding survey 2010

13. UK Rates of breastfeeding (Any and exclusive)
Data from NHS infant feeding survey 2010

14. UK Rates of breastfeeding (Any and exclusive)
Data from NHS infant feeding survey 2010

15. UK Rates of breastfeeding (Any and exclusive)
Data from NHS infant feeding survey 2010

16. Technique
C: close H: head free I: in line N: nose to nipple

17. Contra indications Alcohol misuse
Certain drugs-methotrexate, cyclosporine, lithium
Active TB
HIV
Breast Cancer Rx
Infant with galactosemia

18. Common issues and Sources of help
Sources of support (some on back of green book):
La Leche League
NCT
Local lactation consultants
National breastfeeding helpline
Common issues:
Cracked nipples
Mastitis
Engorgement
Prematurity
Tongue tie
Very few women can’t breastfeed if given adequate support