World Breastfeeding Week, 1 - 7 August 2012

As part of the Government Employees Medical Scheme's (GEMS) ongoing effort to educate existing and future members on a range of healthcare topics, we would like to explore certain important healthcare issues. This article looks at the subject of breastfeeding this World Breastfeeding Week, 1 - 7 August 2012.

What are the benefits of breastfeeding for my baby?
Breast milk contains important nutrients and is one of the most effective ways to ensure the healthy physical and mental development of your baby. It also contains antibodies that help to protect against dangerous illnesses, including the two most common causes of infant mortality worldwide - diarrhoea and pneumonia. Breastfeeding also has long-term benefits for your baby. Evidence suggests that adults who were breastfed as infants often have lower blood pressure and lower cholesterol, as well as lower rates of obesity and type-2 diabetes.

What are the benefits of breastfeeding for me?
Research indicates that breastfeeding may help to reduce the risk of breast and ovarian cancer in later life. It is also has been shown to assist with weight loss after pregnancy, which can be helpful in adjusting to life with a baby. Over and above this, many women consider breastfeeding to be a special time of bonding with their child and an experience that both mother and baby can share together.

How long should I breastfeed for?
According to the World Health Organization, you should breastfeed exclusively for six months following the birth of you baby, before introducing other sources of nutrition. It is important for breastfeeding to begin within the first hour of birth if possible, as this is when the mother's body produces colostrum, a thick and creamy liquid that is high in nutrients and is easily digestible for babies. Colostrum encourages the clearing of the baby's intestines, which helps to prevent jaundice.

How do I know if I am I producing enough milk for my baby?
Your body will naturally adjust to your baby's needs and you will produce as much milk as your baby requires. A baby who is wetting between six and eight nappies a day is most probably getting enough milk. If however you are concerned that your baby is not latching properly or that he or she seems to be hungry all the time, despite how often you breastfeed, it may be advisable to consult your healthcare practitioner.
 
Why is my baby losing weight?
Many mothers become worried when they notice their little one losing some weight in the first three to five days after birth. This is perfectly normal and does not mean that you are not producing enough milk.  

Why are my nipples sore and/or cracked?
While breastfeeding can be a wonderful experience, some women may find that it causes their nipples to become a little sore or cracked. This too is perfectly normal and there are ways to ease the pain and prevent dryness. It is a good idea to try feeding your baby with both breasts equally and allowing the milk ducts to empty completely to avoid swelling. Keeping your nipples dry between feeds by changing your bra pads often will also help. You should not use perfumed creams or soaps as these can make dry and cracked nipples worse. Rather speak to your pharmacist about getting a special nipple cream to assist in preventing dryness.

What if I can't breastfeed?
Some women may find that they are not able to breastfeed. This may be as a result of oestrogen-containing birth control pills, illnesses or hormonal disorders and breast surgery. For these mothers formula is the best option. However, when using formula it is of the utmost importance that you wash the bottle and its rubber teat with clean water and that you sterilise them completely before feeding your baby the formula. You must also be sure that the water you are using to mix with the powdered formula is clean and safe for your baby to drink. Formula that is not prepared safely and hygienically can lead to serious illness and even death in infants.

If I am HIV positive, can my baby get HIV from my breast milk?
Approximately 15% of children become infected with HIV from their mothers through breastfeeding, according to the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). However, antiretroviral (ARV) drug therapy in either the mother or HIV-exposed baby can significantly reduce the risk of transmission through breastfeeding.

It is important for HIV-positive mothers who are breastfeeding not to give their children any other liquids and/or foods, as studies have shown that exclusive breastfeeding for up to six months can lead to a significantly reduced risk of transmission. Studies have shown that certain factors in breast milk can directly fight cells that contribute to HIV transmission.

Women who are HIV-positive and pregnant or with infants should consult a healthcare professional about the feeding options available to them and to discuss possible anti-retroviral therapy.

What if I am a working mother?
There are many working mothers in today's world who may not be able to breastfeed exclusively for six months. For these women it is recommended that exclusive breastfeeding take place for as long as possible before returning to work. At this point the mother should continue to try and breastfeed as often as she can between formula feeds. If possible, a breast pump should be used and breast milk stored in the fridge for use while the mother is away.

The GEMS maternity programme
The GEMS maternity programme is available to all GEMS members who are expecting to have a baby and offers a number of services, including access to a special telephonic advice and support line. Many breastfeeding women find this particular service to be of great help in the early months of parenthood.

Members are required to register on the programme as soon as their doctor has confirmed their pregnancy.

For any GEMS member queries please phone the GEMS call centre on 0860 00 4367 or visit our website at www.gems.gov.za. GEMS will assist you in every way possible to ensure your family's health and wellbeing.

Sources:
1. The World Health Organization, www.who.int 

2. The United Nations Children's Fund, www.unicef.org

3. UK National Health Service, www.nhs.uk

4. WebMD, www.webmd.com