As a mother who has navigated breastfeeding for over a decade and an IBCLC for nine years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the complexities surrounding breastfeeding support. While August is recognized as National Breastfeeding Month, it also serves as a time for reflection on the broader societal issues that affect parents striving to meet their breastfeeding goals. Despite advancements, many of the challenges parents faced when I began this journey in 2009 remain prevalent today.
According to the CDC’s “breastfeeding report card,” while 84% of new parents begin breastfeeding, only 58% continue after six months, and a mere 25% exclusively breastfeed. This highlights a significant gap, as many parents feel discouraged by their inability to meet breastfeeding goals. It’s crucial to understand that these challenges often stem from societal shortcomings rather than personal failures.
Here are six barriers that still need to be addressed in order to better support breastfeeding parents in 2021:
- Inadequate Paid Leave Policies
The United States stands out as the only developed nation without mandated paid parental leave. This lack of support is particularly detrimental for breastfeeding parents, who require time to establish and maintain breastfeeding routines. Paid leave would greatly enhance the likelihood of parents achieving their breastfeeding goals. - Limited Access to Lactation Resources
Many parents struggle to find local lactation consultants or reliable breastfeeding support. The reliance on the internet can lead to misinformation, making it essential that all parents have access to qualified support professionals, such as IBCLCs. Moreover, breastfeeding assistance should be covered by health insurance, similar to pediatric care. - Misinformation About Breastfeeding
Common myths about breastfeeding continue to circulate, often leading to confusion for new parents. Reliable sources like the AAP and CDC should be the go-to for accurate information, yet many still encounter misleading advice that can hinder their breastfeeding journey. - Under-Training Among Medical Professionals
While some healthcare providers are well-informed about breastfeeding, many lack adequate training and may inadvertently provide incorrect guidance. This can have serious implications for new parents who are vulnerable and seeking support. - Unrealistic Cultural Expectations
Societal pressures often place unrealistic demands on new parents, expecting them to quickly return to pre-baby routines while managing the complexities of a newborn’s needs. This culture fails to acknowledge the realities of postpartum recovery and the natural behaviors of infants, undermining the support necessary for breastfeeding. - Public Discomfort with Breastfeeding
Despite breastfeeding being legal in all 50 states, societal discomfort remains a significant barrier. The sexualization of breasts contributes to a stigma around public breastfeeding, making parents feel judged or uncomfortable when feeding their babies in public spaces. This discomfort can lead some parents to wean earlier than desired.
While the current landscape may seem challenging, there has been progress. For instance, breastfeeding in public is now permitted nationwide, and insurance coverage for lactation support has improved with the Affordable Care Act. Additionally, the next generation of parents who have been exposed to breastfeeding may foster a more accepting culture for breastfeeding in the future.
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To summarize, the barriers to breastfeeding in 2021 highlight the need for societal change and better support systems. Parents deserve to have the resources and understanding necessary to meet their breastfeeding goals without facing undue challenges.
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