Pediatric Pearls

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The majority of women attempt breastfeeding, less than 50 % maintain breastfeeding. The rate of breast milk production relates to the degree of emptiness or fullness of the breasts. Human milk is superior to formula in regards to proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, hormones, enzymes, growth factors and protective agents. The first milk that is secreted is colostrum. Colostrum may not be high in volume, however, it is very important for its high antibody concentration. Colostrum also helps to establish the beneficial bacteria that is needed in the infants gut.

Breast milk has been shown to be high in essential fatty acids that help with visual and cognitive development in infants. Infants who are purely breastfed should be supplemented with Vitamin D since most women are deficient in Vitamin D.

Breast milk has a multitude of benefits for infant and mom including protecting infant against diseases. Maternal benefits include decreased risk of postpartum bleeding, decreased risk of breast and ovarian cancer and maternal infant bonding. Contraindications to breast feeding include galactosemia, untreated tuberculosis, HIV and herpetic lesions on the breast.

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