Presentation Information

Breast Hypoplasia and Insufficient Milk Production – What We Know and What We Still Need to Find Out

• Speaker: Renee Kam , BPhysio, IBCLC
• Presentation Type:
• Duration: 60 Mins
• Credits: 1 CERP, 1 Nursing CEU, 1 CME, 0.1 Midwifery CEU, 1 Dietetic CEU

Abstract:

Insufficient milk production is the primary reason women give for ceasing breastfeeding early. Breast hypoplasia is one reason for an inherent inability to make a full milk supply and results in reduced durations of exclusive and any breastfeeding. Previous research into breast hypoplasia and low milk production has been limited to case studies and a case series which identified various features suggestive of breast hypoplasia. A case series of 34 women with such features by Huggins and colleagues in 2000 modified an existing breast type classification from the breast surgery literature to categorise the condition. While the pathogenesis of breast hypoplasia is largely unknown, it is possible that endocrine disrupting chemicals or physiological alterations associated with various endocrine conditions may play a role in altering mammary gland development especially during key stages of breast development. This presentation will update delegates about what is known and what is still unknown about breast hypoplasia as a reason for low milk production and provide tips for supporting women with insufficient milk production as a result of breast hypoplasia.