Final answer:
Manifestations of inadequate breastfeeding may include insufficient weight gain, jaundice, frequent infections, and allergic reactions. Breast milk changes composition from colostrum, which boosts the immune system, to mature milk, which satisfies hunger and thirst. Sudden cessation of breastfeeding can cause breast engorgement and leakage similar to initial stages of lactation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Identifying manifestations of inadequate breastfeeding involves recognizing various signs and symptoms that may indicate the infant is not receiving sufficient nutrition and antibodies from breast milk. Insufficient weight gain, jaundice, frequent infections, and allergic reactions can all be signs of inadequate breastfeeding. Breastfeeding is a dynamic process, and the composition of breast milk changes during the first days of lactation and throughout a single feeding to adapt to the infant's needs.
Colostrum, the milk produced immediately after childbirth, is particularly rich in immunoglobulins which boost the newborn's immune system. It serves as the infant's first 'vaccination' against many common pathogens. As breastfeeding continues, transitional milk and then mature milk follow. Mature milk contains a balance of nutrients, and its composition can change from foremilk at the beginning of a feeding, which quenches the infant's thirst, to hindmilk at the end, which is higher in fat and satisfies hunger.
A sudden stop in breastfeeding can lead to breast engorgement and leakage as a result of the body's continued preparation of milk. This is similar to what occurs in the first weeks postpartum when lactation is being established.