Research Symposium to showcase new insights into breastfeeding

Composition of human milk changes during breastfeeding

Pioneering researchers will introduce Europeans to new insights into breastfeeding and lactation at a conference in Basel, Switzerland, on 7 October. A team led by the University of Western Australia’s Peter Hartmann, widely recognised as the pre-eminent breastfeeding researcher active today, will present a number of innovative results. Professor Hartmann’s team recently caused a sensation by overturning a 160-year old model of the anatomy of the lactating breast.

This Breastfeeding Congress is being jointly organised by the association of Swiss lactation consultants (BSS) and Medela, the world’s leading maker of breastpumps and other breastfeeding products. It is tailored for doctors, midwives, lactation consultants, and other interested healthcare professionals. The insights that will be discussed there offer a unique opportunity to learn how to apply our evolving understanding of breastfeeding to the daily task of helping new mothers successfully feed their babies.

Professor Hartmann’s research shows that the composition of breast milk changes over time, perfectly adapting itself to the changing needs of the growing child. Professor Hartmann compares the mammary gland and infant development during the nursing period and beyond. Research shows that breastfeeding may impact on later life with studies showing that breastfed babies are at a lower risk of obesity as children and adults. Professor Hartmann will explain how mothers and their babies benefit from this changing milk composition, on emotional as well as physiological levels.

Dr Donna Geddes will unveil as yet unseen results in Basel. Dr Geddes, who is studying the behaviour of breastfeeding babies, developed a unique protocol to understand the intricate ballet of sucking, swallowing and breathing that babies must master to feed properly. Dr Geddes will show how these variations can significantly impact the success of a feed. Because of the central role the dynamics of breathing and suckling play in breastfeeding, her results will be crucial in helping practitioners solve breastfeeding problems.

More information about the breastfeeding congress and a registration form can be found at www.medela.ch

Read more about breastfeeding and visit our guide to breastfeeding Breastfeeding Guide

Note: The Department of Health recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months. If you or a friend would like help in coping with any breastfeeding difficulties, please see your midwife or health visitor, or refer to our Support Links.