IBCLC Maternal and Infant Pathology 3

Question 1

A breastfeeding mother is diagnosed with a breast abscess. What is the appropriate management regarding breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Continue breastfeeding on the unaffected breast and pump the affected breast unless the incision is too close to the areola

Answer

Breastfeeding can continue on the unaffected breast; the affected breast should be pumped unless drainage is near the areola.

Question 2

What is a galactocele and how does it typically present?

Accepted Answer

A milk-filled cystic lesion that presents as a smooth, painless, mobile breast mass

Answer

A galactocele is a benign milk retention cyst that forms when a duct becomes obstructed.

Question 3

A mother with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) reports low milk supply. What is the hormonal basis for lactation difficulties in PCOS?

Accepted Answer

Elevated androgens and insulin resistance can impair mammary gland development and prolactin receptor function

Answer

The hormonal imbalances in PCOS can negatively affect mammary gland development and interfere with the hormonal cascade of lactogenesis.

Question 4

An infant diagnosed with congenital hypothyroidism is breastfeeding. What is an important consideration for the IBCLC?

Accepted Answer

The infant may have poor feeding and lethargy due to decreased metabolism; breastfeeding should continue with additional feeding support

Answer

Infants with congenital hypothyroidism may be lethargic and feed poorly but breastfeeding should continue alongside thyroid hormone replacement.

Question 5

A mother is diagnosed with postpartum thyroiditis at 3 months postpartum, in the hyperthyroid phase. How might this affect breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Hyperthyroidism may cause increased milk supply and faster let-down; breastfeeding can safely continue

Answer

The hyperthyroid phase may be associated with increased metabolism and potentially increased milk supply. Breastfeeding is safe to continue.

IBCLC - Certification Exam Practice Test