Examination of Factors That Contribute to Breastfeeding Disparities and Inequities for Black Women in the US

Breastmilk is considered the optimal nutrition for newborns. US Black women continue to have the lowest breastfeeding initiation and duration rates. This Perspective examines factors associated with breastfeeding disparities and inequities among Black women through the lens of critical race theory and the social-ecological model. Recommendations to increase breastfeeding rates in this population include increased communication and educational strategies by health care professionals, education to recognize implicit bias and systemic racism in our health care system, early prenatal and ongoing postpartum breastfeeding support, increased community support, and breastfeeding groups developed by and for Black women. In addition, equity policies such as paid maternity leave and work policies that support milk expression would provide needed institutional support for women in the workplace.

Automated summary

Through the lens of critical race theory and the social-ecological model, recommendations to address breastfeeding disparities and inequities among US Black women include increased communication and educational strategies by healthcare professionals, recognizing implicit bias and systemic racism, early prenatal and ongoing postpartum breastfeeding support, enhanced community support, and the development of breastfeeding groups by and for Black women. Additionally, policies such as paid maternity leave and workplace support for milk expression are essential for institutional support.