Breastfeeding is important for the health of women and babies.
Rates of breastfeeding intention, initiation and duration are lower among women who are overweight or obese. Women with diabetes in pregnancy have lower rates of breastfeeding than women without diabetes.
Their babies are at an increased risk for poor health outcomes and are less likely to receive the only nutrition that offers them some protection.
In women, breastfeeding resets the temporary metabolic syndrome induced by pregnancy. Women who breastfeed are reported to have a lower postmenopausal BMI and are less likely to develop type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Women with pre-existing type 1 diabetes who breastfeed have significantly reduced insulin requirements postpartum and may even experience a brief ‘honeymoon’ phase when no insulin is required.
Breastfed babies are afforded some protection from overweight and obesity; type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus.
In this presentation I will summarise the proposed mechanisms by which overweight/obesity and diabetes effects breastfeeding.
Barriers to breastfeeding that are imposed once a diagnosis of overweight/obese and/or diabetes is made will also be highlighted.
As supportive management is critical to successful lactation in these women, care strategies will be outlined and the patient experience incorporated to enable the audience to appreciate the issues and provide breastfeeding support for those who need it most