Breastfeeding RECS Learning Module

Objectives

1. Appropriately discuss breastfeeding amount at newborn visits along with recognizing any difficulties encountered by new parents.
2. Review appropriate breastfeeding techniques
3. Recognize potential complications such as mastitis along with contraindications for breastfeeding (including drugs)
4. Recognize that human and cow milk proteins differ in quality and quantity
5. Know that human milk contains antibodies against certain bacteria and viruses, including high concentrations of secretory IgA antibodies
6. Understand that low vitamin K content of human milk may contribute to hemorrhagic disease of the newborn infant
7. Know that there is a lower incidence of gastrointestinal infections in infants fed human milk

Articles/Resources

Peds In Review-Breastfeeding: More Than Just Good Nutrition (2011)

AAP Policy Statement-Breastfeeding and the Use of Human Milk (2012)

CDC Breastfeeding Resources

Self-quiz:

1. Compare and contrast the carbohydrate, fat, and protein content of human milk vs. cows milk protein based formula.
2. List at least three protective factors found in human milk. (Make sure to include antibodies)
3. List at least three benefits of breastfeeding.
4. List at least three medications found in mother’s breast milk that are contraindications to breastfeeding.
5. What are the recommendations surrounding breastfeeding mothers with HIV? Hepatitis? Herpes?
6. What are three markers of successful breastfeeding that can be followed in the outpatient setting?
7. Describe the nutritional content of human milk beyond the first 6 months of life in relation to Vitamin K, Vitamin D, Fluoride, and Vitamin B.
8. What is the energy content in Kcals for human milk vs. cow’s milk? What about protein?
9. What resources are available to new breastfeeding mothers or pediatricians who are counseling them?
10. Name at least two strategies that can be offered to mothers who intend to return to work or school while continuing breastfeeding?

Reviewed 7/2017