The decline of breastfeeding rates in America, particularly among Black mothers, has a history we’ve been delving into here at Mae this month. While breastfeeding offers undeniable health benefits for both mothers and babies, in honor of Black History Month, we wanted to highlight how a history riddled with systemic bias and predatory corporate practices has had a disproportionately negative impact on breastfeeding in Black communities. But we also want to emphasize the work being done - important steps being taken to ensure every mother has equitable access to the knowledge and support necessary to embark on a healthy breastfeeding journey

A Decline Shaped by History:

During slavery, breastfeeding was often discouraged or outright forbidden, forcing enslaved mothers to wean prematurely to return to field work. This disrupted the natural immune system transfer and contributed to infant mortality.

Decades later, aggressive marketing of formula, coupled with medical misinformation, painted breastfeeding as inconvenient and "backward." Black communities, already facing limited access to healthcare and education, were disproportionately targeted by these campaigns.

The Impact Today:

Black mothers still face significant barriers to breastfeeding, including lack of workplace support, bias in healthcare, and systemic inequities.

Inadequate lactation facilities and inflexible schedules make it challenging to continue breastfeeding after returning to work. Implicit bias among healthcare professionals can discourage Black mothers from breastfeeding or provide inaccurate information. Social and economic disparities limit access to resources and support systems that could empower mothers to breastfeed.

Moving Forward:

In order to move toward an equitable future, we must acknowledge and address the foundation and impact of the past, and begin to dismantle the systemic barriers that still impact disparate Black breastfeeding rates in this country to this day. 

We can create change by advocating for workplace lactation accommodations, paid parental leave, and culturally competent breastfeeding support programs. We can provide access to lactation support, education, and resources to set mothers up for success. We can normalize breastfeeding, celebrate the benefits, shed shame, and shut down misinformation. By providing access to tools, forums for open questions and dialogue, and models of mothers who look like us, embracing the journey, we can reshape breastfeeding for the Black community.  

We aim to empower Black mothers to make informed choices, shed light on the challenges, and work towards a future where all mothers, regardless of race or background, have equal access to what they need to nourish their babies in the best way possible.

#BlackBreastfeeding #BlackHistoryMonth #RacialHealthEquity #BlackMaternalHealth

Let's continue the conversation in the comments! Share your thoughts and experiences on this important topic. (And learn more about our free breastfeeding resources and support at meetmae.com/classes)