Breastfeeding: Promoting Child and Parent Health Despite Challenges

Breastfeeding is widely recognized as the optimal choice for infant nutrition and offers numerous health benefits for both children and parents. Scientific studies reveal that exclusively breastfeeding can significantly reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome, lower infection rates, decrease hospitalizations, and even diminish the likelihood of developing chronic conditions like diabetes later in life. Additionally, breastfeeding provides essential health advantages for mothers, including potential reductions in certain health risks.

However, many new parents face substantial obstacles when attempting to breastfeed. Personally, I experienced firsthand the difficulties of breastfeeding my first child. Exhaustion, nipple pain, swelling, and concerns about adequate nourishment for the baby created a stressful experience. Questions about the process, managing breastfeeding post-return to work, understanding how to use breast pumps, and accessing effective support are common among new parents.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding for up to two years. Nonetheless, data shows that while over 80% of families initiate breastfeeding, only about 19% of infants are still being breastfed at six months, and just 36% at one year. Many parents find it challenging to reach their breastfeeding goals, often due to insufficient support or education, leading to feelings of guilt or inadequacy.

Motivated by these challenges, I pursued specialized training in breastfeeding and lactation medicine. As a board-certified specialist, I engaged in research to understand parents’ perceptions of breastfeeding success. Our studies, conducted in partnership with organizations supporting Black families and the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine, highlight that success is less about duration and more about the experience, support systems, and community acceptance.

Supportive environments include access to knowledgeable healthcare professionals, peer groups, and accepting communities. Addressing barriers in healthcare—such as ensuring equitable support, educating providers, and preparing families before childbirth—is crucial. Many breastfeeding issues, like nipple pain or ineffective latch, are addressable with proper training and resources.

Commercial infant formula, a lucrative industry valued at $55 billion, influences feeding choices. Sadly, aggressive marketing practices often mislead families and healthcare providers, sometimes undermining breastfeeding efforts. While formula can be lifesaving when breastfeeding isn’t possible, reliance on it due to societal barriers like limited maternity leave and unsupportive workplaces complicates the picture.

Breastfeeding should be viewed as a team effort that involves family, community, workplaces, and healthcare systems. Practical support measures include skin-to-skin contact, offering the breast on feeding cues, and seeking professional guidance to ensure adequate intake. Genuine understanding and supportive environments are essential for empowering parents and facilitating successful breastfeeding experiences.

In conclusion, promoting breastfeeding requires investments in education, community support, equitable healthcare, and policy changes. Recognizing breastfeeding as a vital component of public health underscores its significance in nurturing healthier generations.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-10-breastfeeding-ideal-child-parent-health.html