Episode 8.5: Beyond breastmilk
Maternal stress, sleep deprivation and breast milk composition: Insights from Dr. Bethaney Fehrenkamp
BY Leigh Cooper and Danae Lenz
Photo by University Visual Productions
October 28, 2024
Meet Dr. Bethaney Fehrenkamp, a reproductive immunologist and a clinical assistant professor of immunology with Idaho WWAMI, the state’s medical school. Fehrenkamp is passionate about understanding the complex interactions between maternal and infant health, which she discusses in this episode.
Email us at vandaltheory@uidaho.edu.
As a mother, how stressful is it making sure your baby has a healthy diet?
No one works harder than a new mom — and possibly no one is more stressed and sleep deprived either. Fehrenkamp explores the intricate science behind breastfeeding and its impact on both maternal and infant health. Her research delves into how maternal wellness — particularly stress and sleep deprivation — can influence breast milk composition and affect infant immune development. She highlights the bioactive compounds in breast milk that actively protect infants and shape long-term health outcomes. The conversation also examines how circadian rhythms, governed by hormones like cortisol and melatonin, might play a crucial role in breastfeeding and infant development. Fehrenkamp is looking into how disruptions in these natural cycles, such as irregular feeding patterns or maternal stress, might affect both mothers and babies. Additionally, she shares insights into formula feeding. This episode emphasizes the importance of supporting mothers for optimal infant health.
Music
“Young Republicans” by Steve Combs via freemusicarchive.org, not modified.
“Facts in Motion” by VIV1002 via Amphibious Zoo.