Breastfeeding and Formula Feeding: Supporting a Mother's Choice

The promotion of breastfeeding is a well-established public health goal, but it is one that has been difficult to achieve. Despite knowledge of the health benefits of breastfeeding for women, infants, and children, 8 in 10 U.S. mothers initiate breastfeeding but only 3 in 10 breastfeed for one year. The statistics are even more revealing among racial and ethnic groups. This session discusses barriers to breastfeeding, strategies for helping women achieve their breastfeeding goals, and the need for cultural change.

CPE Level: Level 2 (intermediate knowledge/experience)
CPEU: 1.5

Performance Indicators

• 12.1.1 Advocates for and promotes food and nutrition programs and resources to address issues of food insecurity, nutritional health and
• 12.1.3 Collaborates with community partners and stakeholders in promoting health and disease prevention.
• 9.4.3 Adjusts teaching plans and delivery to meet the needs of specified individuals, groups and populations.

Learning Objectives

• List three barriers to breastfeeding and identify strategies to overcome these challenges.
• Identify policies/procedures that impact breastfeeding initiation and duration.
• Describe how culture affects infant feeding decisions.

Moderator

• Egondu Onuoha, MS, RDN, CDN, IBCLC, RLC,CDCES, GPC, FAND, FILCA

Speakers

• Amy K. Spangler, MN, RN, IBCLC, FILCA