Postpartum Breastfeeding Support for African American Women

Abstract

African American women have the lowest breastfeeding initiation and continuation rates than any other race in the United States. They also have the highest maternal and infant mortality rates related to systemic racism and other issues. Studies have shown a positive correlation between lactation support programs and increased initiation and continuation rates, improving overall health outcomes. However, there is limited research specifically targeting African Americans. A mixed-method clinical inquiry was implemented to examine a postpartum lactation support intervention created for African-American families to increase initiation and continuation rates in the first six weeks of life.