A multitude of disparities exist in our healthcare systems but one of the most pressing, systemic and unsettling ones lies in the quality of care, treatment and outcomes of black women relative to their non-black counterparts. This is especially true in the fields of obstetrics where black mothers-to-be are often plagued with stereotypes that can ultimately affect their lives and their baby’s lives and wellbeing.
Breastfeeding has been found to contribute vastly to many aspects of wellbeing for both mother and baby. ACOG recommends exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life. This is called exclusive breastfeeding. After these initial months, mothers can begin to wean their baby off the breast and slowly introduce other food types. This should be viewed as a transition period and it is important to remember that ultimately, it is up to the mother and her baby to decide when breastfeeding should subside completely.