Breastfeeding: debunking preconceptions and removing barriers. Issue 8 (August 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Barnes, Sarah; Bennett, Sophie; Datta, Shreelata
• Is Part Of: Obstetrics, gynaecology & reproductive medicine. Volume 32:Issue 8(2022)
• Page Start: 188
• Page End: 192
• Publication Date: 2022-08
• Subjects: breastfeeding -- breastmilk -- colostrum -- infant -- lactation -- postpartum; Gynecology -- Periodicals; Obstetrics -- Periodicals; 618
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ogrm.2022.05.004
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1751-7214

Abstract

Abstract: Breastfeeding has benefits for both the mother and child and should be encouraged and supported by healthcare professionals where possible. Fully breastfeeding an infant for 6 months has been shown to carry a lower incidence of gastrointestinal illness, sudden infant death syndrome, respiratory illnesses and childhood leukaemia. For the mother, there is a reduction in breast cancer, hypertension and type 2 diabetes. Prescribing decisions in the breastfed mother should be an individualized decision and take into account the risks and benefits of treatment. Most drugs are considered safe in breastfeeding if prescribing is thoughtful and justified. Using drugs with no known harmful effects, with a shorter half-life, poor secretion into breastmilk and low bioavailability to the infant, at their lowest effective dose, minimises risk. Few drugs are truly contraindicated, and women are often given misinformation to stop breastfeeding with some prescriptions, such as if they require contrast for a radiological examinations. By understanding the principles of prescribing in breastfeeding we can improve our breastfeeding rates.