Page 58 - rp-may-2020

HEALTH MOTHER AND BABY 56
RET AIL PHARMA C Y • MA Y 2020
“Ninety-six per cent of Australian
mothers initiate breastfeeding but less
than half (39 per cent) [of these infants]
are still being exclusively breastfed at
three months of age,” Ms McGrice said.
This figure drops further at the
five-month mark, with “less than 15 per
cent of babies being [breast]fed to five
months exclusively”, she adds.
“The primary determinants for ceasing
breastfeeding include a lack of time and
confusion, such as thinking that their
baby isn’t getting adequate calories,”
Ms McGrice said.
Breastfeeding aids and support
Fortunately, for many women who
struggle with breastfeeding for any of
the above reasons, many products and
solutions are at hand. One is the nipple
shield, which is described as great for
those with inverted or flat nipples.
“Some mums may need a nipple
shield,” Ms Hartley said. “This can
usually be purchased on the maternity
ward or at the pharmacy. A nipple
shield can be used when a mum’s milk
is coin-in. Nipple shields are usually
temporary, and [women] will need
follow up support with [their] lactation
consultant for when to cease using it.”
Nipple creams and ointments, as well
as well-fitting bras, are also available
to help mothers facing challenges
with breastfeeding.
“There are various topical creams and
products that some mothers use to help
prevent or treat sore nipples,” Ms Hull
said. “Speak with your midwife, lactation
consultant or medical adviser about the
options that may suit you.”
Ill-fitting bras are uncomfortable at
the best of times, and even more so
when breastfeeding. Ms Hull adds
that “bras that don’t fit well can cause
nipple soreness and even blocked ducts
and mastitis”.
“Bras made of synthetic materials
cause sore nipples in some women
because they don’t allow the skin to
breathe,” she said.
For support at night, Ms Hull suggests
“a soft cotton sleep or sports bra or
crop top” to provide support and to
“hold breast pads in place at night if you
leak milk”.
For women who face challenges with
attachment/latching and milk supply,
Ms Hull emphasises the importance of
speaking with a professional for support.
(She recommends a call to the ABA’s
FROM PAGE 55
“Bras made of synthetic
materials cause sore
nipples in some women
because they don’t allow
the skin to breathe.”
Nappy Rash
Mild Eczema
Dermatitis
Sunburn
Cuts & Scrapes
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