Presentation Information

Cutting Through the Challenges: Unveiling the Cesarean-Breastfeeding Connection

• Speaker: Dianne Cassidy , MA, IBCLC-RLC, ALC
• Presentation Type:
• Duration: 60 Mins
• Credits: 1 CERP, 1 Nursing CEU, 1 CME, 0.1 Midwifery CEU, 1 Dietetic CEU

Abstract:

Around the world, in highly resourced areas, the rate of cesarean delivery continues to rise. In the United States alone, cesarean deliveries have increased from 20% to 32% over the last 25 years (Antoine and Young 2020). European, Asian, and Australian countries have seen nearly a doubling of their cesarean delivery rates within just a 10-year span (Bhatia et al, 2020). Parents who have experienced a cesarean delivery can have lower breastfeeding rates and are more likely to initiate formula supplementation. Cesarean delivery can delay the start of breastfeeding and shorten the overall duration of breastfeeding. The birth parent who has undergone a cesarean delivery is also more likely to experience increased pain with incision and breast edema, making position and latch more difficult. Cesarean birth is associated with the development of an imbalance of the infant gut microbiome, leading the infant to increased risks of asthma, allergies, and eczema. Lactation professionals, medical providers and birth workers who are assisting new families after delivery need to not only be aware of the increased risks, but also must have tangible skills and knowledge of the latest data to share with families. The learner will have a better understanding of why cesarean birth may lead to lower breastfeeding rates, and how to support breastfeeding after cesarean.