Nutrition and Storage
Can you refreeze breast milk that has already been completely thawed?
No. Thawed breastmilk should never be refrozen because this can increase the risk of bacterial growth and reduce nutritional quality of the milk.
This milk is also known as "liquid gold." It is thick, creamy, and yellow-colored milk available at birth.
Colostrum. Colostrum is first produced during the second trimester of pregnancy and is available at birth for the first two to five dats. It is high in nutrients and has vitamins, minerals, and proteins with low amounts of fat and lactose.
T/F: Breastfeeding boosts the baby's immune system via antibodies
True. Antibodies such as immunoglobulin A helps develops the baby's immune system and helps protect them from infections.
What is engorgement?
When the breasts become overly full or swollen due to a build-up or blockage in the milk ducts.
Who should a new mother be referred to if they have been having trouble breastfeeding due to their inverted nipple?
A lactation consultant is someone who specializes is helping families breastfeed.
Does a breastfeeding mother need more calories than the average person?
Yes, breastfeeding mothers need an additional 330-400kcal a day to support milk production.
Mature Milk. This milk is mostly water and about 800mL a day is produced by the six month period.
T/F: Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for up to three years.
False. Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first six months. If a mother desires to breastfeed for longer, then other nutritional foods will also be given.
If a mom has not breastfed or pumped in a few days, what complications can this lead to?
This can cause severe breast engorgement, pain, and swelling. It increases the risk of mastitis as her milk ducts become clogged.
Should a heat pack or ice pack be used for leaking milk?
An ice pack should be used for leaking milk as it slows down the production of it.
What type of food or drinks should be avoided in excessive amounts when breastfeeding?
Seafood and caffeine should be limited to prevent complications to the baby. Seafood can contain high levels of mercury which is toxic and can pass through the breastmilk. Caffeine is a stimulant that can make a baby jittery.
This is the second stage of breastmilk formed 48-96 hours postpartum. It contains more fat, lactose, vitamins, and calories compared to colostrum.
Transitional milk. It has more calories and fat compared to colostrum which allows for growth of the baby. By day five, 500mL a day is produced.
T/F: Skin-to-skin contact (Kangaroo Care) can help stimulate milk production and improve feeding outcomes.
True. Skin-to-skin contact can lead to better breastfeeding outcomes as this enhances oxytocin release. It also helps with bonding and regulating the baby's vital signs.
This breast infection causes inflammation in the breast tissue, which can cause pain, swelling, redness, and flu-like symptoms if not treated in time.
Mastitis is when the milk ducts become clogged or blocked which can allow bacteria to enter causing infection. Symptoms include tender, hot, swollen, or hard lumps in the breasts.
Can cabbage leaves be used to reduce engorged breasts?
Yes, cabbage leaves are a remedy to treat breast engorgement/symptoms of mastitis. They are applied for 20-30 minutes two to three times a day.
How many months is breastmilk good for when it is stored in the freezer?
Breastmilk in the freezer is good for six months up to twelve months. It should be stored in the back of the freezer or a deep freezer.
Which breastmilk stage stage has the lowest amount of fat and lactose?
Colostrum is low in fat and lactose but high in protein, vitamins, and minerals.
T/F: When breastfeeding, the baby's mouth should ONLY be covering the mother's nipple when sucking.
False. The baby's mouth should be covering the areola and not only the nipple as this can increase the risk for nipple trauma.
Is it possible for a new mother to release milk to the sounds of a baby crying even if it is not hers?
Yes, a new mother hearing a baby cry even if it is not hers can stimulate the release of oxytocin and milk let-down.
What are the four breastfeeding positions?
Cradle, cross-cradle, football, and side-lying. These positions are useful to relieve nipple soreness.
What two nutrients does a mother breastfeeding need to increase her intake of?
Iodine and choline should be increased while breastfeeding because it supports growth and development of the baby and replenishes the mother's storage of these nutrients.
Which milk stage is 13% carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and 87% water?
Mature milk has the highest concentration of water compared to colostrum or transitional milk.
T/F: Breastfeeding is more expensive than formula feeding.
False. Breastfeeding is more cost effective than formula feeding.
What can happen if a baby has an improper latch while breastfeeding?
If a baby has an improper latch, then the nipple can become traumatized leading to soreness, cracking, or bleeding.
What is the name of the cream used to relieve sore, cracked, or dry nipples?
Lanolin cream is used to relieve sore, cracked, or dry nipples and it is safe to use while breastfeeding.