Page 57 - rp-may-2020

HEALTH MOTHER AND BABY
55
RET AIL PHARMA C Y • MA Y 2020
increases the mother’s risk of breast cancer, type 2 diabetes
and high blood pressure.
Another benefit of breastfeeding is breastmilk’s protective
properties against allergies and eczema, says Nutrition Plus
Pre and Postnatal Dietitian Melanie McGrice.
“Breastmilk is protective against allergies and eczema,
so this is another reason why it’s beneficial to breastfeed
for as long as possible,” she said.
Ms Hull added: “Research has found that in infants who have
a genetic predisposition to allergy, exclusive breastfeeding for
at least three to fourth months can protect them from eczema,
cow’s milk allergy and wheezing in the early years when
compared to those fed with formula-based cow’s milk.”
Breastmilk also provides allergy protection when the
infant begins solids. According to Practice Midwife at
East Melbourne Obstetric Group and Gynaecology
and Director of The Baby Rap antenatal classes,
Prue Hartley, a continuation of breastfeeding when solids
are started “may help prevent [the development of] an
allergy to those foods”.
She adds that if formula has been started ahead of solids,
it’s important to consider hydrolysed formulas, as these
“may reduce the risk of allergies, particularly in babies who
have a history of allergies in their parents or siblings”.
“Extensively hydrolysed formula is available on prescription
to babies with a cow’s milk allergy,” Ms Hartley said.
Breast is best until you can’t
While there is a solid argument for breastfeeding, the
opportunity to breastfeed is not something afforded to all
women. Some women don’t breastfeed for one reason or
another. This makes it important to recognise that while
‘breast is best’, it’s important not to make those who can’t
breastfeed feel guilty for their decisions.
“Unfortunately, no new mum breezes through
breastfeeding,” Ms Hartley said. “When I had my first
child, I couldn’t believe how many new challenges I had to
overcome. Realistic expectations and allowing yourself time
to learn this new skill is critical. As a midwife, I really try to
normalise to new mums that it’s hard at the beginning, but
it does get a lot easier with time: try not to judge yourself
against others.”
However, for some women, despite best efforts,
complications with breastfeeding may still arise.
“There are a number of difficulties that mothers can often
face when breastfeeding,” Ms Hull said. “This is why support
from organisations such as the Australian Breastfeeding
Association (ABA) is extremely important. A recent study
published in
The Lancet
showed that with phone support
(eg, the ABA’s 24-seven Breastfeeding Helpline), mothers
breastfed for longer.”
The experts agree that some of the challenges with
breastfeeding may arise due to:
• Concerns around milk supply.
• Attachment or latching concerns.
• Sore/cracked nipples.
• Thrush.
• Blocked ducts/mastitis.
• Inverted/flat nipples.
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