Which condition is a contraindication to breastfeeding?

Which condition is a contraindication to breastfeeding?

• A. Infants with mild jaundice.
• B. Infants with galactosemia.
• C. Infants with low birth weight.
• D. Infants with good latch.

Answer: (B)

Galactosemia is a condition where the infant cannot properly metabolize galactose, a sugar component of lactose found in breast milk. Because breast milk contains lactose, feeding an infant with galactosemia would allow galactose to accumulate in the body, leading to serious complications such as liver dysfunction, cataracts, developmental problems, and failure to thrive. Therefore, breastfeeding is contraindicated, and the infant should be fed a galactose-free formula (such as a lactose-free option) to avoid galactose exposure. Mild jaundice in newborns is common and typically resolves with time or appropriate management, so it does not contraindicate breastfeeding. Low birth weight may require additional monitoring and support, but it is not by itself a contraindication to breast milk. A good latch indicates effective breastfeeding and support for successful feeding, not a reason to avoid it.

Galactosemia is a condition where the infant cannot properly metabolize galactose, a sugar component of lactose found in breast milk. Because breast milk contains lactose, feeding an infant with galactosemia would allow galactose to accumulate in the body, leading to serious complications such as liver dysfunction, cataracts, developmental problems, and failure to thrive. Therefore, breastfeeding is contraindicated, and the infant should be fed a galactose-free formula (such as a lactose-free option) to avoid galactose exposure.

Mild jaundice in newborns is common and typically resolves with time or appropriate management, so it does not contraindicate breastfeeding. Low birth weight may require additional monitoring and support, but it is not by itself a contraindication to breast milk. A good latch indicates effective breastfeeding and support for successful feeding, not a reason to avoid it.