"More than 80% of women in the U.S. initiate breastfeeding, but only 25.8% exclusively breastfeed by six months. In addition, 19% of breastfed infants receive infant formula supplements in the first 48 hours after birth.

There are significant sociodemographic and cultural differences in breastfeeding, with the lowest rates of initiation among non-Hispanic Black or African American populations. Similar disparities exist among low-income mothers, younger women and those with a high school education or less.

"Pediatricians’ communication with families about the benefits of breastfeeding can increase initiation, duration and exclusivity."  https://publications.aap.org/aapnews/news/20528/Updated-AAP-guidance-recommends-longer

Historically, the Pitt County WIC Program has focused on breastfeeding initiatives including peer counselor services, breast pump loans and support and education programs.   While we know that we have work to be done and progress to be made, we have kept our initiation rates stable, despite being short staffed during the last several years.   

We also continued to have our Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Program in place and made provisions to provide breast pumps either by curbside or porch drop off.  While we had the waivers in place and had limited ability to see people during Covid, there was also a formula shortage, which may have impacted the numbers not dropping for initiation rates. 

WIC Staff

Breastfeeding Peer Counselors

Internal Health Department Staff and other programs within the Health Department 

Pediatrician Offices

Hospital

Community members/advocates

New mothers having access to peer counselors or other lactation staff within the first 72 hours of the baby's life.

Pediatrian/OBGyn offices who start conversations about breastfeeding early.

Breastfeeding support networks

Community outreach 

Reinstate in-home breastfeeding services.

Return to the hospital, which will enable new mothers to get enrolled postpartum to the WIC Program and introduce them to WIC breastfeeding services faster. 

Take WIC and breastfeeding materials to physician/provide/community partner offices

The Maternity Fair will happen again this year and we intend to be present.