“With reference to appropriate anatomy and physiology discuss how the midwife would assist the woman in the initiation of lactation, following birth. BSc (Hons) Midwifery, Biological Basis of Midwifery Care, Kingston University London. Level of Assessment 5”

In human physiology, lactation follows pregnancy, and any disruption to this process may result in poor health outcomes for both mother and child (Stuebe, 2014). It is a complex physiological process involving a chain of neurologic and endocrine mechanisms (Azulay Chertok, 2012 p147). Human milk is species specific promoting the growth and development of infants (Azulay Chertok, 2012 p147), and leading healthcare experts globally are of the opinion that breastfeeding is best for both mother and baby (World Health Organization, 2007). According to Midwives Rule 5(Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), 2012), midwives are expected to meet five Essential Skills Clusters, one of them stating that a midwife should be able to support the initiation (and continuation) of breastfeeding (NMC,2009).  Supported by relevant evidence, this essay will attempt to answer the question above, discussi…(short extract)