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COVID-19. Breastfeeding Information and Research Team, Australian Breastfeeding Association
COVID-19 is a corona virus, with much still to be learned about its transmission. Breastfeeding and breastmilk are well-known to be protective against a wide range of viruses1 and health professionals can confidently reassure breastfeeding mothers that they can continue to breastfeed.
Positioning and Attachment
In the early weeks, it is common for breastfeeding women to experience some nipple pain that ceases after the initial attachment. Severe nipple pain, pain that continues beyond the initial attachment or any signs of nipple damage all require investigation. Nipple pain is a commonly reported reason for early breastfeeding cessation. The most common cause of nipple pain is suboptimal positioning and attachment. Hence, supporting women to establish good positioning and attachment is important to help women reach their breastfeeding goals.
Blocked Ducts and Mastitis
Blocked ducts and/or mastitis are common problems experienced by breastfeeding mothers. While blocked ducts and mastitis are distinct entities, the boundaries between them are often blurred. Mastitis often occurs following milk stasis from a blocked duct when milk leaks out from the ducts into surrounding tissue. This does not always signify infection, although the presenting symptoms are frequently similar.
Introducing Solids
‘Introducing solids’ describes when an infant goes from being fed only milk to gradually becoming used to a variety of family foods.
Breast Refusal
A baby’s refusal to suck at the breast is a distressing problem for a mother. The mother can feel as though her baby is rejecting her and may think she has to wean. However, the problem is usually temporary. When supporting a mother who is concerned about breast refusal, it is important to firstly determine if the baby is truly refusing. For example: Is she allowing her newborn enough time to attach and feed? Does she perhaps not realise that feeding patterns change as the baby gets older Sometimes you may never know the reason for the baby’s refusal.
Mary Paton Research Award 1986 – I.Lennon and B. Lewis
BR Effect of Early Complementary Feeds on Lactation Failure [...]
