Breastfeeding rates are lower among Black families in the U.S. due to a variety of factors, such as racism and inequitable access to breastfeeding resources, but if you are considering breastfeeding, with the proper support, you can achieve a positive outcome. Breastfeeding has many benefits for both you and your baby and is a great choice to consider.
Benefits of breastfeeding
- Breast milk can help reduce the risk of early childhood diseases, such as ear infections, asthma, and type 1 diabetes, as well as Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID) and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
- Antibodies found in breastmilk help babies develop a strong immune system
- Parents who breastfeed have a lower risk of developing certain conditions that disproportionately affect the Black community, such as breast and ovarian cancers, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure.
Support is essential
Support is not just important—it’s crucial. Black maternal and child health and general women’s health organizations are great resources for families seeking guidance and education. They can provide culturally appropriate breastfeeding support, recommendations, resources and more for those who want to breastfeed.
Organizations dedicated to breastfeeding support for Black families
- The Black Mothers’ Breastfeeding Association’s (BMBFA) mission is to reduce racial disparities in breastfeeding through support, education, and meaningful engagement. They provide many services, including lactation consultations, peer support groups, and educational workshops. Check out their site to get started.
- The Black Mothers’ Breastfeeding Club® (part of BMBFA) helps parents connect and find local virtual and in-person events nationwide. Check out their mission and learn about the support they can provide here. Black Breastfeeding Week: National Black Breastfeeding Week takes place every August. This organization provides continuous year-long information, resources and events designed to promote the benefits of breastfeeding for Black families. Visit this site or @blkbfingweek to learn more.
- The National Black Doulas Association: Doulas are trained professionals who provide physical, emotional, and informational support during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. They can also be great resources for providing breastfeeding support and helping you access additional community resources. Learn more at National Black Doulas.
- The Black Women’s Health Imperative (BWHI) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the health and wellness of Black women and girls. As a result, they offer valuable breastfeeding support, recommendations, and resources.
- Chocolate Milk Cafe is a peer-led lactation support organization for families of the African diaspora. It holds monthly meetings across 14 active chapters. For more information, visit the organization’s website or follow @chocolatemilkcafe on Instagram.
While accessing care and support when breastfeeding can be challenging, there is a thriving community of committed people ready to help you and your baby on this journey. Joining these support groups can give you a sense of belonging and a community to lean on.
Reviewed by the Ovia Health by Labcorp Clinical Team
Sources
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Staff. “Key Breastfeeding Indicators-Breastfeeding Disparities Exist.” CDC. Last Reviewed: July 31, 2024 https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/data/facts.html#:~:text=Breastfeeding%20Disparities%20Exist.,and%20Hispanic%20infants%20(83.4%25).
