Hypertensive Disorders During Pregnancy Linked to Early Breastfeeding Difficulties and Reduced Duration

Hypertensive conditions during pregnancy, including chronic hypertension, gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, and eclampsia, are significant contributors to maternal and infant mortality in the United States. Between 2017 and 2019, approximately 16% of pregnancies in the U.S. were complicated by these high blood pressure issues, with higher incidences observed among non-Hispanic Black/African American and American Indian/Alaskan Native women. These disorders not only pose immediate health risks but also increase the long-term likelihood of developing heart disease, kidney problems, and strokes.

Recent research conducted by Yale University indicates that women diagnosed with hypertensive disorders during pregnancy are less likely to initiate breastfeeding altogether, and if they do begin, they tend to stop sooner than those without such diagnoses. The study highlights that women with hypertensive conditions have an 11% higher chance of never starting to breastfeed and a 17% higher probability of ceasing breastfeeding earlier in the postpartum period. The median duration of breastfeeding was found to be nearly 17 weeks shorter for women affected by hypertensive disorders. These findings suggest that hypertensive disorders may adversely affect breastfeeding outcomes.

The barriers to breastfeeding are diverse and often systemic, including challenges such as pain, latch difficulties, concerns about milk supply, and insufficient support and education from healthcare providers. Although 83% of women in the U.S. attempt to breastfeed, only about a quarter continue exclusively for the recommended six months. This discrepancy may be influenced by systemic issues that impede sustained breastfeeding efforts.

Understanding the connection between hypertensive disorders and breastfeeding is vital, especially considering the higher prevalence of HDP among Black and Native women, communities that also experience lower breastfeeding rates. Enhancing awareness and providing targeted support during pregnancy, such as prenatal lactation consultations, could improve breastfeeding initiation and duration, ultimately benefiting long-term maternal and child health.

The study’s analysis utilized data from the CDC’s Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System, including over 205,000 women across various states and demographics, making the findings broadly representative. Results showed that women with HDP had an 11% higher likelihood of never breastfeeding and a 17% increased chance of stopping breastfeeding at some point postpartum. The shorter duration of breastfeeding among women with hypertensive disorders underscores the need for tailored interventions.

Experts advocate for increased support systems for women with HDP, especially during pregnancy, to foster better breastfeeding outcomes. Such strategies include dedicated lactation consultation services and enhanced education, which could significantly improve health outcomes for mothers and their infants, particularly within communities at higher risk for hypertension and related health disparities.

Overall, these insights emphasize the importance of addressing systemic barriers and implementing targeted interventions to support women with hypertensive disorders, promoting healthier futures for both mothers and babies.