4D Expectations

28/09/2020

The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) have released a Statement on Resuming Breastfeeding after Anesthesia. They reiterate that there is no need to "pump and dump" and include the following recommendations for lactating people requiring surgery:
1. All anesthetic and analgesic drugs transfer to breastmilk; however, only small amounts are present and in very low concentrations considered clinically insignificant.
2. Narcotics and/or their metabolites may transfer in slightly higher levels into breastmilk; therefore, steps should be taken to lower narcotic requirements by adding other analgesics when appropriate and avoiding drugs that are more likely to transfer (i.e., have a higher RID).
3. Because pain interferes with successful breastfeeding, women should not avoid pain medicines after surgery. Despite an excellent safety record, breastfeeding women who require narcotic pain medicines should always watch the baby closely for signs of sedation: difficult to wake and/or slowed breathing.
4. When possible, spinal or epidural anesthesia consisting of local anesthetic and a long-acting narcotic, should be used for cesarean delivery to reduce overall post-operative pain medication requirements.
5. Patients should resume breastfeeding as soon as possible after surgery because anesthetic drugs appear in such low levels in breastmilk. It is not recommended that patients “pump and dump.”
Find more info: https://lllusa.org/breastfeeding-and-surgery/
*Have you breastfed after surgery?*
Breastfeeding and anesthesia are generally compatible. The common suggestion to "pump and dump" for 24 hours post-surgery is not in line with current evidence. Generally, they can resume breastfeeding once she is awake, stable, and alert after anesthesia has been given.

26/09/2020

A warm bath & a good cry, gives me a sense of release, much needed time to let go of any unwanted stress, what a releave. Then the smiles comes easier 🥰

12/02/2020

In the month of love, we’re focusing on Oxytocin (aka the ‘love hormone’).

Research shows that people in their first stages of romantic attachment had increased levels of oxytocin, compared to those of non-attached single people. These levels remained stable for a minimum of six months and therefore there is a positive correlation between plasma levels of oxytocin and romantic attachments. Oxytocin levels rise even more during hugging and or**sm. This lovely hormone enhances feelings of generosity and trust and may help in the recognition and understanding of others’ feelings.

Understanding this is key to appreciating the essential role this hormone plays in birth, breastfeeding, and mother-baby bonding. Maternity professionals need to create an oxytocin-friendly environment in the labour room as well as all units after birth. Let’s do all we can to make sure our patients feel its wondrous effects!

Learn more about the effects of Oxycotin in our latest blog post: http://bit.ly/SM-Endocrine-Intelligence

19/01/2020

Welkom kleine baba! Baie geluk en seën vd ouers!

30/11/2019

As doula, i support the mothers no matter her choice ❣️

27/09/2019

21/09/2019

What a privilege it was to speak at a Lenmed Kimberly event! 11th September 2019, thanks to all the people that made this a successful awareness on breastfeeding!

09/09/2019

Let’s revisit the basics. Fetal alcohol syndrome is physical and mental damage in a child due to alcohol exposure while in the womb. This condition can be prevented by abstaining from alcohol during pregnancy.

Distinctive facial features, learning disabilities, bone and joint deformities, heart defects and hyperactivity are some symptoms. The syndrome is irreversible.

Early treatment can help reduce some symptoms.

Let’s be vigilant and advocates for the unborn,
and help prevent this terrible syndrome.

04/07/2019