• Research from Saint Louis University, featured in the Maternal and Child Health Journal, examines how COVID-19 impacted breastfeeding in marginalized U.S. communities.

• While 34% of mothers found stay-at-home orders improved breastfeeding ease, bonding, and duration, many faced barriers such as limited lactation support and heightened stress.

• The study highlights systemic challenges disproportionately affecting low-income, racially diverse mothers, including inadequate workplace lactation accommodations and financial instability. Existing policies like the PUMP Act and Pregnant Workers Fairness Act provide some aid but fall short of addressing these disparities.

• The researchers advocate for expanded support, including remote work options, better financial and mental health resources, and reinstated telehealth lactation services through programs like WIC. Dr. María José Romo-Palafox, the study’s lead, stresses the need for equitable policies that support breastfeeding and maternal health across diverse populations, ensuring better outcomes for both mothers and children.

Click here to read more