Maternity Nursing: Postpartum Q 31
Which of the following responses is most appropriate for a mother with diabetes who wants to breastfeed her infant but is concerned about the effects of breastfeeding on her health?
A. Mothers with diabetes who breastfeed have a hard time controlling their insulin needs.
B. Mothers with diabetes shouldn’t breastfeed because of potential complications.
C. Mothers with diabetes shouldn’t breastfeed; insulin requirements are doubled.
D. Mothers with diabetes may breastfeed; insulin requirements may decrease from breastfeeding.
Correct Answer: D. Mothers with diabetes may breastfeed; insulin requirements may decrease from breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding has an antidiabetogenic effect. Insulin needs are decreased because carbohydrates are used in milk production. Breastfeeding mothers are at a higher risk of hypoglycemia in the first PP days after birth because the glucose levels are lower. Mothers with diabetes should be encouraged to breastfeed.
Option A: Breastfeeding has a positive effect on a mother’s insulin response. For Type 1 diabetic mothers this can decrease their need for insulin during the breastfeeding period. Mothers who have Type 2 diabetes may find they require less hypoglycemic medication while breastfeeding. Good control of your insulin levels is important while breastfeeding. The woman may need to do some additional monitoring and be in close contact with her health practitioner during the early weeks until her hormones and her milk productions stabilize.
Option B: Planning ahead with the birth team to manage these potential events can be helpful so everyone is prepared and not making decisions in a stressful situation. If at all possible plan to breastfeed within the first hour after birth and at least once an hour until the baby’s blood sugar levels stabilize. Skin-to-skin contact has been found to decrease the risk of hypoglycemia in newborns and it helps trigger the hormones that drive breastfeeding.
Option C: A mother who is diabetic or insulin-resistant may find that it takes a bit longer for her milk volume to increase after giving birth. Colostrum is providing all the nutrients, (vitamins, minerals, and fats) that baby needs through the early days. Frequent effective feedings will speed up the body’s ability to increase the milk volume. In the event that supplementation is required during the first few days, human donor milk is the best option.