100 years ago, pretty much everyone was breastfed as a baby. 50 years ago, that figure had plummeted to only about ¼ of the baby population. Today, breastfeeding is on the rebound, thanks to a greater understanding, focus, and emphasis on infant and mother’s well being and rights.
The CDC released their stats for the US earlier this summer. According to their research, breastfeeding is holding strong! (CDC source report) Here are the findings for 2022, the most recent year for which they have collected data:
- In Arizona 86% of babies have had breast milk
- 60% are still having it at 6 months
- 36% of babies are still breastfeeding at 1 year of age
This is good news since breastfeeding has many benefits for both mother and child. Legislation, workplace policies, societal acceptance, and improvements in breast pumps, have all helped to make this possible.
There are lots of resources for mothers online these days too. Whether you are a soon to be first time mother or have already breastfed multiple children, the links below are super informative.
Good Overview of Breastfeeding Resources
https://www.usbreastfeeding.org/breastfeeding-resources-for-parents.html
US Dept. of Health
https://womenshealth.gov/breastfeeding
US Dept. of Labor
Know your rights when you are pregnant or have recently given birth
https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/maternal-health
Guidance on choosing a breast pump
https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/breast-pumps/choosing-breast-pump
If you are a student and nursing a baby
https://thepregnantscholar.org/know-your-rights-breastfeeding/
How to self advocate for lactation rights at work
https://www.popsugar.com/family/advocate-breastfeeding-accommodations-work-49341615
