Maternal Health and its Effects on Breast Milk Hormones and Infant Outcomes

Presenter

Declan Conor Hastings

Campus

UMass Amherst

Sponsor

Carrie-Ellen Briere, Department of Nursing, UMass Amherst

Schedule

Session 3, 1:30 PM - 2:15 PM [Schedule by Time][Poster Grid for Time/Location]

Location

Poster Board C21, Poster Showcase Room (163), Row 3 (C21-C30) [Poster Location Map]

Abstract

Breast milk is regarded as the “gold standard” for infant nutrition as it contains vital nutrients, enzymes, immunoglobulins, and hormones that contribute to the health of a developing infant. The hormones contained within breast milk and their effects on infant development are not well studied. Breast milk samples from eight participants over roughly one month were collected and will be examined using immunoassay techniques. Specifically, the hormone cortisol which regulates stress and the circadian rhythm is of interest and will be compared to data regarding maternal health and lifestyle. High cortisol in adults is commonly a result of high-stress levels. Abnormal cortisol levels have serious detrimental effects on the health of an adult such as heart disease, diabetes, sleeping issues, digestive issues, and poor memory. Although it has been shown that cortisol is passed through breast milk, little research has been conducted on what influences cortisol levels in breast milk. Using this mixed-method approach, predictors of abnormal cortisol levels in breast milk could be identified which could have implications for infant health and development.

Keywords

breast milk, nursing, hormones, maternal health, infant health

Research Area

Nursing

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