Black Breastfeeding Week—taking place this year from August 25-31—was created by Black leaders in the breastfeeding field to shine a light on the challenges families can face when it comes to breastfeeding and to increase awareness of support and resources.
Margaret Brown, DHA, RN, Senior Director of Care Management for Priority Health, explains that these challenges—which includes historic and cultural barriers, in addition to lack of representation and support—can make breastfeeding more difficult.
"This week brings much-needed awareness and creates space for conversation and empowerment," Brown said. "Celebrating and supporting our community helps normalize breastfeeding and ensures every family gets the encouragement they need."
According to CDC data, there's a significant gap in breastfeeding rates between Black and white infants, with systemic issues—like access to care, provider bias, or lack of workplace support—playing a role.
"Several factors contribute to this gap, including a lack of support, fewer breastfeeding role models and less access to resources in some communities," Brown explained. "Returning to work earlier and not having a supportive environment can also play a part for many families. Understanding these challenges is the first step in breaking down barriers.
"If families can't access prenatal and postnatal care and education, it impacts breastfeeding success, and ultimately the health outcomes of infants. Workplace policies that lack flexibility or privacy for pumping can also discourage breastfeeding."
There are benefits to breastfeeding, especially for Black mothers and infants who may face higher risks of certain health conditions.
"Breastfeeding can lower the risk of certain conditions that disproportionately affect Black families, like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and some cancers for mothers, and SIDS or asthma for babies," Brown shared. "For families at higher risk of these health concerns, breastfeeding is an important practice. It also strengthens the bond between mom and baby and can boost infant immunity."
For those who face challenges with breastfeeding, Brown emphasizes the importance of first recognizing that it's a journey, and how community-based resources—connecting with other breastfeeding parents, lactation consultants or peer counselors, etc.—are a major key to success.
"Having partners, family and friends who encourage and understand the process is also important," she said. "Access to trusted information, health care providers and flexible work policies all help. No one should have to navigate breastfeeding alone—it takes a team."
Thankfully, there are a number of organizations and online resources that specifically support Black mothers in their breastfeeding journeys, including Detroit-based Black Mothers' Breastfeeding Association, and the National Association of Professional and Peer Lactation Supporters of Color.
"Online communities and social media groups can also be wonderful sources of support and information," Brown shared. "These spaces allow families to share stories, ask questions and find culturally relevant encouragement."
Brown explains that healthcare providers and hospitals can better support breastfeeding among Black families by ensuring lactation support is available, visible and accessible, and that resources are reflective of the diverse communities they serve.
"Creating safe and affirming spaces helps families feel comfortable to ask questions," she said, offering advice for new or expectant Black mothers who might be considering breastfeeding but are unsure if the supports necessary will be available.
"First, know you are not alone if you feel nervous or anxious about breastfeeding. Being a new mom can be overwhelming in many ways. Support and encouragement are available so don't hesitate to reach out for help," Brown advised. "Find a local or online community that feels welcoming and understands your experience. It's OK to ask questions and advocate for yourself.
"Remember, your breastfeeding journey is unique, and any amount of breastfeeding is an achievement. You've got this, and there are people ready to back you up."
Ultimately, don't forget that breastfeeding is very personal, and every journey looks a little different.
"The most important thing is for families to feel empowered and supported to make the choices that are best for them," Brown said. "Priority Health supports its members through our PriorityBABY and PriorityMOM programs. PriorityBABY supports parents, caregivers and their babies up to the child's second birthday by providing resources and answering common questions about infant health and safety. PriorityMOM walks expectant mothers through their pregnancy and after they give birth by offering support, resources and education—including information about breastfeeding."
Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for West Michigan Woman.
