Nearly one and a half years ago (August of 2011) a team of Canadian researchers published a study in the International Breastfeeding Journal that linked the fluid intake which a mother may receive in labor with excessive weight loss in her newborn. The study concluded that it takes about 24 hours for babies to correct their fluid state and therefore a true birth weight should be done at 24 hours. I don't know about your area of the world, but this is NOT being done where I live. Not only is this not being done, but there seems to be NO knowledge about this research. Sure...the doulas and the IBCLCs know about the study...but not the pediatricians who are often quick to suggest formula for excessive weight loss.
How do we get this research into the hands of the birthing mothers and their care providers? My suggestion is to send this information to your clients. Make them aware of the situation so that they will have the information with them before birth. Help them prepare for this possible scenario!
Below I have listed my favorite posts about this research. The study was reported by a variety of people and news organizations. They range from a Lactation Consultant's blog to an online news feed for pediatricians. Share your favorite one with your clients or share them all!
The Journal Article: From the International Breastfeeding Journal - An observational study of associations among maternal fluids during parturition, neonatal output, and breastfed newborn weight loss
A Lactations Consultants View: From Santa Barbara Lactation - Newborn Weight Loss and IV Fluids in Labor
The News Reporter: From Science Daily - Maternal IV Fluids Linked to Newborns' Weight Loss
The Breastpump company: Hygeia - IV Fluids Linked to Early Newborn Weight Loss
The University where the research took place: University of Ottawa - Maternal IV fluids linked to newborns' weight loss
A Medical News website aimed at Pediatricians: Helio.com - Newborn weight loss associated with maternal IV fluids
Medical School News: Stanford Medical School -Study shows link between maternal IV fluids and weight loss in newborns
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Utah Doula | Weekly Roundup of Web Links | Andrea Lythgoe Doula Salt Lake City Utah
January 30, 2013
[…] Something I have always wondered: Can IV fluids in labor effect the baby’s weight? […]