Lactation 101

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‍The Importance of Breast/Chest Feeding

Breastfeeding provides essential nutrients and immune support for infants.
Reduces risks of breast cancer, ovarian cancer,high blood pressure, and Type II Diabetes in lactating individuals.
Lowers infant risk of SIDS, obesity, asthma, Type I diabetes, and severe infections.

Physical Challenges: Latch issues, low milk supply, mastitis, and nipple pain.
Emotional & Psychological Challenges: Anxiety, depression, guilt, and identity conflicts around feeding.
Societal & Systemic Barriers: Systemic racism causing racial disparities, lack of support, and social stigma.
Historical & Cultural Barriers: Generational trauma and cultural practices influencing lactation decisions.

Black parents face lower breastfeeding rates due to systemic inequities
Native American parents may experience mistrust in healthcare due to historical trauma.
Use inclusive language such as chestfeeding or body feeding when appropriate.
Recognize the impact of societal pressures and targeted formula marketing on communities of color

Elicit Feeding Goals & Experiences:
- ‍ Ask about the patient’s feeding preferences and past experiences to guide support.
Active Listening & Validation:
- ‍ Normalize struggles and reassure patients that emotions like frustration, disappointment, or exhaustion are common.
Trauma-Informed Care:
- Understand that breastfeeding can be triggering for patients with trauma histories.
- Avoid reinforcing guilt or shame if a patient chooses to supplement or not breastfeed.
- Ensure patients feel empowered in their feeding decisions.
Psychoeducation & Resource Sharing:
- ‍ Provide information on common breastfeeding challenges and strategies.
- Offer referrals to lactation consultants and peer support groups.
- If needed, consult with the Consulting Psychiatrist to address medication safety concerns during lactation.
Respect & Encourage Autonomy:‍
- Reinforce that patients have the right to choose or modify their feeding plan.
- Offer support without judgment for all feeding decisions.
Address Systemic Barriers:
- ‍ Patients of color may need enhanced support to sustain breastfeeding.
- Advocate for hospital and community policies that reduce disparities in lactation support.
Create a Safe & Inclusive Space:‍
- Use gender-inclusive language when working with diverse families.
- Normalize lactation conversations to reduce societal stigma around breastfeeding.