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As a breastfeeding advocate and consultant, I’ve been immersed in the breastfeeding community for over a decade. August marks National Breastfeeding Month, a time for reflection on how we can better support parents in achieving their breastfeeding goals. Despite the strides made in fostering acceptance for breastfeeding, many barriers that existed a decade ago remain unresolved.
According to the CDC’s latest breastfeeding report, while 84% of parents initiate breastfeeding, only 58% continue at six months, and just 25% exclusively breastfeed during that time. The statistics show that 35% manage to breastfeed until their child is one year old, with 19% of infants receiving formula within the first two days of life. It’s crucial to recognize that many parents feel disheartened by their breastfeeding experiences not due to personal shortcomings, but rather because of systemic failures that inhibit their success.
Here are six significant barriers that continue to impact parents seeking to breastfeed in 2021:
- Inadequate Paid Leave Policies
The U.S. uniquely lacks a national paid leave policy for new parents. In contrast to other developed nations that offer extended paid leave, American parents are often forced to return to work shortly after childbirth. This lack of support disproportionately affects breastfeeding parents, as establishing breastfeeding requires significant time and commitment. - Limited Access to Lactation Support
Many parents struggle to find local lactation consultants or resources. Some individuals may not even know where to seek help, leading them to unreliable online information. Comprehensive access to trained lactation professionals should be standard, with costs covered by health insurance, similar to pediatric care. - Perpetuated Myths About Breastfeeding
Misinformation around breastfeeding persists, making it essential for parents to access reliable sources like the AAP or IBCLCs. Many myths, such as the belief that certain foods can enhance milk supply, can cause unnecessary anxiety for breastfeeding parents. - Medical Professionals Lacking Breastfeeding Training
While some healthcare providers are well-versed in breastfeeding support, many are not. Incorrect advice can have a detrimental impact on new parents. Ensuring that all medical professionals are properly trained in breastfeeding practices is vital for supporting parents effectively. - Cultural Expectations of Parents and Infants
Societal pressures often place unrealistic expectations on parents and their infants. The assumption that parents should quickly regain their pre-pregnancy selves while managing everything from work to childcare is overwhelming. Additionally, expecting infants to adhere to perfect schedules only adds to the stress of breastfeeding. - Public Discomfort with Breastfeeding
Despite the legality of breastfeeding in public across all states, societal discomfort surrounding it persists. This discomfort can deter parents from breastfeeding in public, causing them to feel confined or judged. Such feelings can lead to early weaning, which is unfortunate for those wishing to continue breastfeeding.
While these barriers paint a challenging picture, progress is being made, albeit slowly. With each generation, attitudes toward breastfeeding are evolving. As more children witness breastfeeding, we may see a cultural shift toward normalizing it.
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In summary, while breastfeeding remains a vital aspect of infant health and family bonding, numerous barriers still hinder parents in their breastfeeding journeys. Raising awareness and advocating for systemic change can help create a more supportive environment for breastfeeding families.