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The Centers for Disease Control and Preven3tion states that Black women have the lowest breastfeeding initiation rates (about 64 percent) and the shortest breastfeeding duration (roughly 6.5 weeks) of all ethnic groups. These numbers are disheartening, because both mother and child can benefit from breastfeeding.

For example, infants who are breastfed have a reduced risk for asthma, type 1 diabetes, obesity, and sudden infant death syndrome. Mothers who breastfeed have a reduced risk for ovarian cancer, breast cancer, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes. Being all too familiar with these health concerns within the black community, I feel compelled to speak about breastfeeding, as a nurse and as a mother- because the benefits are well within our reach.

Eight years ago, Black Breastfeeding Week was created by three women who recognized the need to raise awareness about black breastfeeding health, education and disparities.  As a woman of color, a lactation consultant and a mother, I can attest that Black Breastfeeding Week is needed.

Unfortunately, many face challenges and won’t reap the benefits; black women in particular. The hospitals are flooded with pharmaceutical representatives who promote formula products. I have witnessed women of color being offered formula without being given the opportunity to breastfeeding or pump. If you are a mother, you know how overwhelming post-partum can be. Being encouraged to use a product without proper guidance and education under new circumstances is unfair.

 While, I would love to tackle the reasons why breastfeeding rates are low amongst black women, the intent of this blog post is to highlight breastfeeding women in our communities.   As we get ready to celebrate Black Breastfeeding Week, here are four ways to best help black women through their breastfeeding journey.

1. Support

 Studies show there is a direct correlation between breastfeeding rates and maternal support. Whether the support comes from loved ones, health professionals, or bloggers like me, it has shown to have a positive effect.   Discussing your breastfeeding plan EARLY with your health care professional, can tremendously change the course of your journey. They can refer you to resources and classes you may want to register for. Speaking with your spouse will also allow you to get the support you need. Advise them on ways they can best support you. Trust me, there will be a time when you will need someone to lean on when you want to give up. Planning in advance, allows you to stay prepared, even on days when the unexpected happens.

2.Diversity in the Lactation field

While there are qualified women of all races, we need more black women in the lactation field educating other black women. I’ve been a lactation consultant for nearly two years and I’ve personally experienced the joys of sharing my knowledge with numerous black mothers who wish to breastfeed. It’s rewarding to be a part of the reason why a black woman chooses to breastfeed.

Furthermore, diversification can only happen when everyone has equal access to the training and contact hours needed to complete the program. Equity and parity is needed in order to attain diversity. The course is expensive, and the contact hours can be scarce which can restrict access to some. Offering grants/ scholarships can be a way to curve those disparities and incentivize the profession. Easy access to contact hours should also be granted to all. Perhaps, providing a detailed list of private practices or clinics who offer the contact hours can help diversify the lactation field.

3.Access to Proper Resources

 There are resources that directly cater to black women. Unfortunately, these resources are not often shared in OBGYN offices. We have growing breastfeeding communities that support and nurture these needs. Spreading the word about these resources is a necessity to ensure the proper support to breastfeeding mothers. Here are a few.

*(ROSE) Reaching Our Sisters Everywhere  was founded to address breastfeeding disparities for communities of color.

*Black Moms Breastfeeding Support Group, a Facebook community with more than 92,000 members  and counting.

*Black Pumping Mamas, per the group’s description on Facebook, it is geared for women of color who are looking for support and advice, related to pumping, for their precious little ones.

*Black Breastfeeding Mamas Circle , per the groups description on Facebook A center of learning for Black women providing access to evidence based information, resources and the community support necessary to navigate breastfeeding and motherhood successfully.

4. Breastfeeding Equipment

            While support from family and health care professionals is essential, more information needs to be shared regarding breastfeeding equipment. Many black women don’t have the opportunity of taking extended time off after childbirth. As such, access to proper equipment and training is a must in order to maintain their milk supply.  

Spectra Baby USA products provides amazing access to quality pumps, evidence-based research and education. They have a variety of pumps, accessories and products on their website   https://www.spectrababyusa.com.

While most breast pumps are covered by insurance there is a slight surcharge for the S1, but the S2 is covered by most insurance companies. My clients rave about their pumps for numerous reasons. Here are some of the qualities they mention. They are durable, easy to use, quiet, and offer a built-in night light. In addition, they offer a 2-year warranty, they are lightweight, and simulates the natural suckling of a baby.

As far as accessories, they are essential when breastfeeding. Flange size is one of the most confusing yet essential part of pumping. SpectraBabyUsa offers a flange size tool to help ensure the right flange size is being used. Incorrect sizing will inevitably affect your milk production. This is an absolute must when you start your breastfeeding/pumping journey. I have provided the link to assure you are using the right size. 

As mentioned above, support is essential when you start on this beautiful journey. Spectra does a phenomenal job at making sure their mamas get the support and education by going live on social media. Join them every Wednesdays at 12pm EST on Facebook and Instagram as they tackle all things breastfeeding. Whether you join their lives or head over to their website rest assure you will get evidenced based information. From flange sizing to breastfeeding and alcohol they cover it all. 

During these sessions, you have direct access to a Lactation consultant who answers questions and offers live demonstrations. Booking a session with a lactation consultant is also easily done through their website. 

Breastfeeding rates among black women are low, but the narrative can be changed. Being intentional with, providing and seeking support, diversifying the lactation field, promoting resources and getting the right equipment are steps in the right direction in fighting disparities. In my opinion, breastfeeding is mother nature at its best, and every mother should have the opportunity to experience it if she wishes to do so.

~Tania Joline~