Maternal & Infant Health Flashcards

What is the primary benefit of breastfeeding for maternal health?

Answer: Reduces risk of postpartum hemorrhage

Breastfeeding, particularly the act of suckling, stimulates the release of oxytocin in the mother. Oxytocin causes the uterus to contract, which helps to compress blood vessels and reduce blood loss after childbirth. This natural mechanism significantly lowers the risk of postpartum hemorrhage, a serious complication.

Which maternal condition can be improved by breastfeeding?

Answer: Type 2 diabetes

Breastfeeding has been shown to reduce a mother's risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, especially for those who experienced gestational diabetes. The physiological changes during lactation help improve glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. This protective effect can be long-lasting, offering significant health benefits to the mother.

What is a key immune benefit of breastfeeding for infants?

Answer: Provides antibodies for immune protection

Breast milk is a living substance rich in antibodies, immunoglobulins, and white blood cells that provide passive immunity to the infant. These protective factors help shield the baby from various infections, viruses, and bacteria, reducing the incidence and severity of illnesses like ear infections, respiratory infections, and diarrhea.

Why is skin-to-skin contact important immediately after birth?

Answer: Regulates infant temperature and promotes breastfeeding

Skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth is crucial for helping the newborn adapt to the outside world. It effectively regulates the infant's body temperature, stabilizes heart rate and breathing, and promotes a calm state. This close contact also stimulates the baby's natural rooting and suckling reflexes, facilitating early and successful breastfeeding initiation.

What is an important dietary need for breastfeeding mothers?

Answer: Increase calorie intake to support milk production

Producing breast milk requires a significant amount of energy, so breastfeeding mothers need to increase their daily calorie intake. On average, an additional 300-500 calories per day are recommended to support milk production without depleting the mother's own energy stores. This ensures adequate nutrition for both mother and baby.

How does breastfeeding benefit infant digestion?

Answer: Provides easily digestible nutrients

Breast milk is perfectly tailored for infant digestion, containing enzymes that help break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. Its unique composition, including easily absorbed proteins and beneficial prebiotics, supports the development of a healthy gut microbiome. This results in less digestive upset and easier nutrient absorption for the baby.