When we give birth we want everything to be perfect! Of course we do. But for some infants life can be a bit more of a challenge. Meaning they are inherently at risk of low blood sugar or feeding risks from the beginning. This can be a factor in changing your breastfeeding journey.
SIze is a determining factor on how hospitals look at breast-feeding. Ranging from really large or small, to early deliveries to maternal illnesses or baby issues.
-big baby over about 9 pounds at term
- small baby under about 5pounds 8 oz
-premature babies
-babies born to diabetic moms
-moms with flat nipples
-babies with facial deformaties
With either big babies or small babies. . One of the major concerns is Blood sugar. Most hospitals have protocols for how to treat low blood sugars. Many now offer the ability to use a glucose paste to help support the baby's blood sugar. Some still recommend formula feeds. Moms are encouraged to feed every two hours. infant sugars are checked usually before feeds. The goal is to maintain blood sugar before feeds in the range of 40-45. If less, then infant is fed then the blood sugared is rechecked within an hour and should be >45. If still low you may be asked to give formula. The goal is to maintain blood sugars above 45.
The plan changes with very low blood sugars. The usual definition is 25 or less, this is an actual emergency. It requires immediate intervention usually IV.
Another issue is babies with deformities. Some facial deformities can cause difficulty latching, thus affecting milk transfer. This caused some distress for parents. If the defect is known, there may be the opportunity to begin colostrum collection ahead of time. This can buy you some time to feed while waiting for your milk to come in.
Still another issue can be maternal flat nipples or other variations on normal. The issue is do the nipples pull out? In sort can the baby latch? If so the solution is pretty easy. If not there is still hope, your lactation consultant can be a good resource.
If you are a known diabetic, have been told your baby will be either large for gestational age (LGA) or small for gestational age (SGA) or have known deformities request a lactation consult BEFORE delivery. some hospitals have a way to accommodate you. Others do not.
An internet search for a local Lactation Consultant can be a great option, Most often see ing someone around 34 weeks can help you formulate a plan to improve your breastfeeding journey,
Happy feeding.
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