Parenting in Crisis: why " Just Breastfeed" isn't helpful during the Formula Shortage
The formula shortage has affected many families in our community here in the DMV and nationwide. In particular, we’ve seen much of the conversation surrounding formula being used to shame parents for their choice to formula feed and an immediate push to breastfeed. These tactics are not only hurtful but harmful to parents experiencing an already extraordinarily difficult time. While we believe breastfeeding has numerous benefits for both parent and baby, we support all families in their choice to feed their little ones as they see fit. We know that a successful feeding journey can look different for many families and that all feeding methods have their benefits.
Facts:
83% of babies in the U.S initiate breastfeeding, however as the baby ages the percentage of babies being breastfed decreases.
46% of all babies that are exclusively breastfed initially are supplemented at some point anywhere from 3-6 months of age.
But why?
There are many reasons why families may choose to supplement
Parents may not be able to breastfeed or may have a low milk supply
Baby has a medical necessity and may not be able to breastfeed alone
Parents may not have the resources, support, or education to continue to express human milk long term
Parents may not have the time to invest that it takes to commit to breastfeeding, we know that time is an expensive commodity that is hard to come by in this culture
A parent may need to return to work
Parents may make the decision not to breastfeed because that is what works for them.
What does this mean?
This tells us that many families are choosing to supplement for one reason or another. And, we should not vilify parents for doing so. Breast/Chestfeeding is time-intensive and labor-intensive for lactating parents and the U.S does not have a system in place to support breastfeeding’s long-term sustainability for under-resourced families. Postpartum care is almost nonexistent and parents are still fighting to receive adequate parental leave after having children. On average, parents living in America receive about twelve weeks of unpaid leave and most opt to take even less leave (6-9 weeks) as few have access to paid leave and struggle to support their families.
With that in mind, the United States has had issues concerning family structures for a long time. One would think that by 2022, we’d be in a much better position than previous generations, but sadly that isn’t the case. Many individuals are struggling to meet their own basic needs; battling food and housing insecurity, inadequate health care systems, policing of their bodies, inflation, etc. They are fighting for their time, their life, and mental health. They are fighting for peace of mind and the hope that their children are safe. And, for a BIPOC person/parent, these experiences are seen at disproportionately higher rates. Being forced to face and survive in these systems and spaces can make it much harder to thrive.
Yes, that’s a lot.
As a birth worker and staff member here at The Center, a good bit of my role is to hold space for families and one thing is for sure - parenthood is complicated and filled with unknowns. The public has much to say about this current crisis directed towards those same families, but what we should be doing is providing resources and support. A simple check-in such as, “ how can I support/assist you during this time?” “Is there anything you need?” “Can I help to connect you with a lactation consultant, doula, or a resource?” Not telling families to “just breastfeed” because you don’t know their journey. Maybe; they have tried; perhaps, they can’t or don’t want to breastfeed. Maybe; they are breastfeeding and supplementing. Regardless, It isn’t your business anyway. As mentioned above, the conversation isn’t that simple.
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Below are a few helpful resources for parents that are in need NOW:
Seek support from an IBCLC
Counsel you on switching formula brands
Connect families to resources like donor milk from milk banks such as the Milk Bank of Austin.
Assist with inducing lactation, re-lactation, or maintaining and increasing milk supply
Assist prenatally to start a breastfeeding plan
discussing benefits and risks to all options
Check your formula’s lot code here to see if it was recalled. Lot numbers can be found on the bottom of the container.
Learn more about choosing an infant formula that’s safe for your baby.
Check out the Free Formula Exchange
A nationwide mutual aid network connecting families who need baby formula to people who have formula to donate.
Call your local OBGYN or pediatrician.
They may have in-office samples of formula or may be able to recommend a similar formula that may be more readily available in stores with a similar nutritional value.
You can also talk to your pediatrician about introducing complementary foods by 6 months (no earlier than 4 months). Visit MyPlate to learn more.
Get creative and check for formula in places you perhaps would not normally, including:
Smaller stores
Drug stores and pharmacies
Smaller supermarkets
Online retailers
Store brands
Online/ Facebook/ community/ parent groups
Local food or diaper banks