Hypoglycemia

Babies at higher risk of low blood sugars are:

• born to gestational diabetic moms
• babies born large for gestational age
• babies born overdue/post term
• premature babies or
• babies exhibiting any signs or symptoms of low blood sugars
• babies who experience breathing difficulties

Monitoring blood sugar involves a heel stick to obtain a drop of blood for the glucometer machine. Different hospitals have different levels they consider "normal". If a babies blood sugar is below a certain number, they will require you to feed the baby immediately or supplement with formula. Then they will recheck the blood sugar, if it is within normal limits after a feeding, they will just monitor the baby and perhaps do one more blood sugar check. If is is still low after a feeding, they will likely start an IV to stabalize the infant. Yes, low blood sugars can be dangerous and do require intervention.

How can this be treated?
1. BREASTFEED! immediately after birth and often thereafter
2. Offer frequent skin to skin contact.
3. If medically indicated, and breastfeeding is not an option or did not work, offer supplements as recommended by physician. If supplements are offered, the preferred methods are syringe feeds, cup feeds, dropper feeds or finger feeds. Avoid bottle feedings if possible.

All this being said, if your baby has an issue keeping his blood sugar in a good range, then PLEASE ask for a lactation consultant to help you.

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