Common problems in breastfeeding

Abstract

The authors briefly address common situations of the infant that may have an impact on lactation (hypoglycemia and jaundice in infants, growth, dehydration, hypernatremia, among others). All interventions should be designed for the protection and support of breastfeeding. Many situations can be prevented by early skin-to-skin contact after birth and early initiation of breastfeeding, followed by an unrestricted lactation in terms of duration, time between meals, or access to one or both breasts in each meal. Mothers should also learn to recognize and offer the breast in response to early signs of hunger from the baby. Crying is a late sign. Many situations in the first few days of life use to had their initial assessment in hospital after delivery,where women obtained the support they needed. Nowadays the desirable early discharges from hospital at 36-48 hours after birth shift these situations (like when the milk comes in) to primary care, underlining the importance of good communication between institutions for the effective support to the nursing mother. Some common procedures, like supplementing feedings with artificial milk, are not designed for the promotion and maintenance of lactation and may influence its development. Routinely weighting the baby without establishing a plan for effective weight progression can undermine mothers confidence.