What's in Your Breastmilk?

There is a lot to be admired about mothers’ bodies and the changes that take place to carry, birth and nourish a baby. Breastfeeding is just one of many examples.

Here are four quick and useful tidbits about breastfeeding and breastmilk, and what they might mean for your breastfeeding journey.

OXYTOCIN - THE “FEEL GOOD” HORMONE

Oxytocin is essential in childbirth and breastfeeding. It is the way mum and baby communicate, and you may hear it called the “cuddle” or “love” hormone. Heightened levels of oxytocin are experienced by both mother and baby when close to each other however, mother also does not necessarily need her baby around for oxytocin to flow. Often, all mum needs to do is think of her baby, see a picture or hear a baby crying to trigger a release of oxytocin.

What does this mean for breastfeeding?
Skin to skin contact is crucial after birth, it helps form fundamental bonds between mother and baby, and promotes oxytocin flow. Higher levels of oxytocin trigger the let-down of milk and also makes baby more receptive to feeding, thanks to its calming and relaxing effect.

More great about oxytocin and let-down reflex here:
https://www.breastfeeding.asn.au/bf-info/early-days/let-down-reflex

BABY BACKWASH

The makeup of a mothers breastmilk will change according to babys needs (amazing, I know!). Studies suggest that while breastfeeding, excess liquid from baby, including saliva, is transferred through the breast. This determines the required composition of the breast milk. One way to see this phenomenon in action is to express two samples of milk. One when you are well, and one when you are fighting a cold. Compare the two bottles side by side and be wowed.

What does this mean for breastfeeding?
If baby and mother are willing to breastfeed, it’s important to keep feeding through any infection (both you and bub), as it not only gives essential sustenance and hydration, but also to make sure the composition of the milk is best for bubs immune system.

More reading on baby backwash here:
http://www.essentialbaby.com.au/baby/breastfeeding/how-breastfeeding-backwash-keeps-your-baby-healthy-20171016-gz1qq3

DAY AND NIGHT

Breast milk is more than food – it’s also a clock! Milk produced at night may contain higher levels of melatonin to help baby sleep. Studies have shown that very minimal traces of melatonin can be found in milk expressed during the day, but then increase in concentration at night, with levels peaking around midnight. No wonder this is such a popular choice of medication for helping older kids and adults sleep.

What does this mean for breastfeeding?
While there’s no guarantee of baby sleeping at night (if only!), some people who use use bottles will label them with exact times. This ensures baby gets the highest melatonin content at sleep times.

More reading about breastfeeding and coping with sleep here:
https://www.breastfeeding.asn.au/bfinfo/how-cope-broken-sleep

LIPASE

Breastmilk contains an enzyme called lipase, which helps break down fats in food. The amount of lipase in breastmilk can differ, and often changes the taste of the milk as it might break down the fat in milk a little too quickly.

What does this mean for breastfeeding?
If you have high lipase in your milk, the milk might taste metallic or soapy after 24 hours of storage (it’s ok to taste it if you’re curious, I’ll be first to admit I’ve done it). The milk is perfectly fine for your baby to drink, but the taste is not the same as coming fresh from the breast. It might explain why some babies refuse to drink stored breastmilk. Some mothers choose to “scald” express breastmilk to minimize lipase activity.

More reading about different look and taste of breastmilk here:
https://www.breastfeeding.asn.au/bfinfo/unusual-appearances-breastmilk

Happy breastfeeding, I hope you find it as fascinating as I do!

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Haakaa silicone pump - https://www.milkylife.com.au/breasts-bottles-milk-supply/150ml-silicone-breast-pump-with-suction-base-5w32n

Silicone Milk Storage Bags - https://www.milkylife.com.au/breasts-bottles-milk-supply/silicone-milk-storage-bag-gp5j4

Organic Bamboo Reusable Breast Pads - https://www.milkylife.com.au/breasts-bottles-milk-supply/organic-bamboo-reusable-breast-pads-14-pack-sd5sl