Did you know the journey of breastfeeding can be influenced by various factors, including the way your baby is born? Let’s explore how labor and delivery methods impact breastfeeding and
how to navigate these challenges for a successful start.
labor's impact on breastfeeding
Several factors can influence the success of breastfeeding, and one of them is the way baby is born. During labor, the female body releases hormones such as oxytocin and prolactin, which facilitate the release (ejection) and production of breast milk during postpartum, as well as it contributes to the establishment of an emotional bond between mother and baby. For the baby, labor also contributes to lung maturation.
Studies show that women who have a vaginal birth initiate breastfeeding more quickly, exactly because they have gone through labor and the release of hormones.
Women undergoing intrapartum cesarean section, performed due to complications during labor, may face initial challenges in breastfeeding. Despite the release of labor hormones, there is a higher risk of no skin-to-skin contact between mother and baby in the operating room, and breastfeeding may not start in the first hour of life. Consequently, they may be associated with lower rates of exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of age.
Similarly, women undergoing elective cesarean section, performed before the onset of labor, may also face challenges. The absence of labor may result in a lower initial production of oxytocin, the hormone that facilitates milk let-down. Additionally, there is a possibility of baby having immature lungs, as it is labor itself who signals its maturity. It is important to emphasize that this does not mean that all women undergoing a scheduled surgery will be unable to breastfeed, but it may take longer and face more obstacles.
Regardless of the way of birth, perinatal education, assistance during labor and postpartum care are crucial for the better development of breastfeeding. Initiatives to promote immediate skin-to-skin contact after birth, guidance on breastfeeding management, and emotional support are equally important.
The type of birth influences breastfeeding, but with adequate support, women can overcome challenges and establish successful breastfeeding, promoting a healthy physical and emotional development of their babies.
Writen by Marcela Rios | Doula, childbirth educator and breastfeeding counselor
Posted on Instagram @barbaracrepaldiphoto on February 1, 2024.
≫ This image is part of the “Breastfeeding Moment” project by photographer Barbara Crepaldi, with the support of doula Marcela Rios. The goal of this project is to share valuable information and create beautiful memories for the featured mothers. Every two months, Barbara Crepaldi Photography will host a raffle for subscribed women. The winner will receive a studio breastfeeding shoot, and her photos and story will be featured on Instagram and here. For more information on how to participate, please visit @BarbaraCrepaldiPhoto.
