48. Adjustment of infant to extrauterine life For the first few minutes after birth, the infant’s physical status assessed based on HR Respiration Color Muscle tone Reflexes Apgar score of 8 – 10 indicates a healthy baby
49. Lactation Lactation is production of milk by the hormone prepared mammary glands Rising levels of placental estrogen, progesterone and hPL stimulate the hypothalamus to release PRF (prolactin releasing factor) The anterior pituitary responds by secreting prolactin The first three following birth, the mammary glands secrete colostrum
51. Advantages of breast milk to the infant Its fats and iron are better absorbed and its amino acids are metabolized more efficiently than those of cows milk It has beneficial chemicals, including IgA, lysozyme, interleukins and lactoperoxidase Its natural laxative effects helps to cleanse the bowels of meconium. A green black paste containing sloughed off epithelial cells, bile and other substances