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As a breastfeeding advocate with over a decade of experience and a certified lactation consultant for nine years, I’ve witnessed many aspects of the breastfeeding journey. August brings National Breastfeeding Month and World Breastfeeding Week, prompting us to reflect not just on techniques like achieving a good latch, but on the broader issues that impact parents striving to achieve their breastfeeding goals.
Despite noticeable advancements in societal acceptance of breastfeeding, many barriers that existed a decade ago persist in 2021. The CDC’s regular “breastfeeding report card” reveals that while 84% of parents initiate breastfeeding, only 58% continue for six months, and just 25% breastfeed exclusively during that time. Furthermore, only 35% reach the one-year mark, and 19% of infants receive formula within their first two days of life.
It’s crucial to bring awareness to these ongoing challenges. Parents often feel disheartened when they don’t meet their breastfeeding goals, but it’s vital to recognize that societal shortcomings often contribute to these struggles. Here are six barriers that continue to hinder breastfeeding parents:
- Inadequate Paid Leave Policies
The United States stands alone among developed nations by not providing paid parental leave. While many countries offer extended leave, parents here often face the dual challenge of returning to work while attempting to meet the demands of breastfeeding. Paid leave is essential for breastfeeding parents to achieve their goals. - Limited Access to Lactation Support
Many parents across the U.S. find themselves without access to lactation consultants, either due to location or lack of knowledge about available resources. This lack of support often leads parents to rely on online information, which can be misleading. Comprehensive, easily accessible lactation support should be covered by health insurance, similar to pediatric and OB-GYN services. - Misinformation About Breastfeeding
Accurate breastfeeding information is crucial, yet myths persist. Parents often encounter false claims about milk supply and dietary restrictions. Seeking guidance from reputable sources such as the AAP or a qualified IBCLC can help navigate this minefield of misinformation. - Under-Training of Medical Professionals
While many healthcare professionals are supportive of breastfeeding, others provide incorrect or harmful advice. It’s essential to ensure that all medical practitioners who engage with new parents are adequately trained in breastfeeding support to avoid detrimental outcomes. - Unrealistic Cultural Expectations
Societal pressures often place unrealistic demands on new parents, expecting them to quickly return to pre-baby routines while managing childcare and household responsibilities. These expectations can create additional stress, making it harder for parents to focus on breastfeeding. - Public Discomfort with Breastfeeding
Although breastfeeding in public is legal nationwide, societal discomfort persists. The sexualization of breasts contributes to a culture that makes breastfeeding parents feel they must hide or limit their feeding practices. This discomfort can lead to early weaning or reluctance to breastfeed in public settings.
Despite these challenges, I believe we are slowly making progress in supporting breastfeeding parents. The legalization of public breastfeeding in all states and increased insurance coverage for lactation support are steps forward. Furthermore, the children being raised in breastfeeding-friendly environments are likely to foster a more normalized understanding of breastfeeding in the future.
For those seeking more information and support, consider exploring resources like this blog post or looking into Make a Mom for expert advice. Also, check out Healthline for comprehensive information on pregnancy and home insemination.
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In summary, while significant barriers to breastfeeding persist, recognizing these challenges is the first step in fostering a more supportive environment for breastfeeding parents. By advocating for necessary changes and providing accessible resources, we can help parents achieve their breastfeeding goals.
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