Breastfeeding is the process of feeding an infant with human breast milk, either directly from the mother's breast or expressed and given through a bottle.
Types of Breastfeeding:
- Exclusive Breastfeeding: Only breast milk for the first 6 months (No water, formula, or solids).
- Predominant Breastfeeding: Breast milk with occasional other fluids (not recommended).
- Complementary Feeding: Breast milk + Other foods after 6 months.
Composition of Breast Milk
|
Component |
Colostrum (First 3–5 days) |
Mature Milk (>2 weeks) |
|
Proteins |
High IgA, Lactoferrin |
Lower protein |
|
Fats |
Low |
High (Essential fatty acids for brain development) |
|
Carbohydrates |
Lactose-rich |
Lactose-rich |
|
Antibodies |
Very high (IgA, IgG, IgM) |
Present |
|
Growth Factors |
High (Epidermal Growth Factor) |
Lower |
- Colostrum is thick, yellowish, rich in antibodies, and essential for newborn immunity.
- Mature Milk appears by 2 weeks postpartum and supports growth & brain development.
Benefits of Breastfeeding
1. Benefits for the Baby:
- Provides Passive Immunity → IgA, IgG, Lactoferrin.
- Prevents infections → Protects against diarrhea, pneumonia, otitis media.
- Promotes Brain Development → Rich in DHA & Omega-3.
- Prevents Allergies & Asthma.
- Reduces risk of Obesity & Diabetes later in life.
2. Benefits for the Mother:
- Uterine Involution → Oxytocin release reduces postpartum bleeding.
- Delays Ovulation → Natural contraception (Lactational Amenorrhea Method).
- Reduces Risk of Breast & Ovarian Cancer.
- Enhances Emotional Bonding with the baby.
- Aids Weight Loss → Burns extra calories.
Initiation & Techniques of Breastfeeding
1. Early Initiation:
- First breastfeed should be given within 1 hour of birth (Golden Hour).
- Encourages skin-to-skin contact (Kangaroo Mother Care).
- Stimulates milk production (Prolactin Reflex).
2. Proper Latching & Positioning:
- Baby's mouth should cover both nipple & areola.
- Signs of Good Latch:
- Chin touches the breast.
- Lips flanged outward.
- No pain for the mother.
3. Feeding Frequency:
- Every 2–3 hours (8–12 times/day).
- Night feeding is important for continuous milk supply.
Common Breastfeeding Problems & Management
1. Sore Nipples
- Cause: Poor latch, incorrect positioning.
- Management: Correct latch, Apply lanolin cream, Air-dry nipples.
2. Engorgement
- Cause: Excess milk, Ineffective feeding.
- Management: Frequent feeding, Warm compress, Hand expression of milk.
3. Mastitis (Breast Infection)
- Cause: Blocked duct, Bacterial infection (Staphylococcus aureus).
- Symptoms: Fever, Red & Painful swelling in the breast.
- Management: Continue breastfeeding, Antibiotics (Dicloxacillin/Cephalexin).
4. Insufficient Milk Supply
- Causes: Stress, Poor latch, Infrequent feeding.
- Management: Increase feeding frequency, Skin-to-skin contact, Hydration.
Contraindications to Breastfeeding
Maternal Contraindications:
- HIV (if alternative milk is available).
- Active Tuberculosis (Until treated for 2 weeks).
- Herpes Simplex Virus (If lesions on the breast).
- Severe Malnutrition (Rare).
Infant Contraindications:
- Galactosemia (Cannot digest lactose).
- Maple Syrup Urine Disease (Need special diet).
Summary Table: Breastfeeding Essentials
|
Feature |
Key Points |
|
Colostrum |
First milk, High in IgA & proteins, Essential
for newborn immunity |
|
Exclusive Breastfeeding |
Recommended for first
6 months |
|
Breastfeeding Benefits |
Prevents infections, Brain development, Weight loss
for mother |
|
Common Problems |
Engorgement, Mastitis, Poor latch |
|
Contraindications |
HIV, Active TB, Galactosemia |
Key Takeaways
- Breastfeeding should start within the first hour of birth.
- Exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months → No water, No formula.
- Proper latch is essential to prevent pain & ensure milk transfer.
- Breastfeeding prevents infections, enhances bonding, & reduces maternal cancer risk.
