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CHAPTER 17: Breastfeeding and Maternal Mental and Physical Health

CHAPTER 17: Breastfeeding and Maternal Mental and Physical Health. Introduction. The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months postpartum.

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CHAPTER 17: Breastfeeding and Maternal Mental and Physical Health

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  1. CHAPTER 17:Breastfeeding and Maternal Mental and Physical Health

  2. Introduction • The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months postpartum. • While 70% of mothers initiate breastfeeding after the birth of their child, only 13.5% of infants in the United States are exclusively breastfed for 6 months.

  3. Introduction • Top five reasons women report for deciding to breastfeed: 1. Its benefits for infant health 2. That it is “natural” 3. To strengthen bonding with their infant 4. Convenience 5. Benefits for their own health

  4. The Biology of Breastfeeding • Most important hormones associated with lactation are oxytocin and prolactin. • Estrogen and progesterone are suppressed during lactation, resulting in lactational amenorrhea. • Animal research has assocatedoxytocin and prolactin with critical maternal behaviors such as grooming, protection, and sensitivity to infant cues.

  5. Physical Health Benefits of Breastfeeding • Weight Loss and Metabolic Syndrome • Breastfeeding is associated with weight loss after pregnancy and a reduced risk of metabolic syndrome. • Breast and Ovarian Cancer • Breastfeeding may protect against breast and ovarian cancers by suppressing ovulation, and thus limiting lifetime estrogen exposure.

  6. Mental Health Benefits of Breastfeeding • Stress Regulation • Postpartum Depression • Breastfeeding women have lower rates of postpartum depression in comparison to formula-feeding women. • Maternal Bonding • Breastfeeding is often assumed to aid in maternal-infant attachment.

  7. Potential Maternal Costs of Lactation • Physical Costs • Nipple discomfort • Mastitis • Candidiasis • Yeast infection transferred from baby’s mouth

  8. Potential Maternal Costs of Lactation • Labor and Economic Costs • Time commitment associated with breastfeeding can place a burden on women in the workplace. • Breastfeeding can affect women’s freedom.

  9. Potential Maternal Costs of Lactation • Social Costs • Social stigma related to breastfeeding in public • Reduced sex drive • Making partners feel left out of childcare experience

  10. Conclusions • More research is needed on the association of breastfeeding and postpartum depression. • Additional studies should evaluate the trade-offs in the benefits and costs of breastfeeding. • Consider both individual and population level.

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