Lactancia Materna: Supporting Breastfeeding with Latino Families

Background

South Carolina’s Latino population grew 154% from 2000-2011 and Latino birth rates in the state are nearly double those of other groups. Health care systems have struggled to keep pace with growth and often lack the capacity and policies to effectively serve Latino families, including in the area of breastfeeding. PASOs is a community-based organization working to bridge the gap between providers and Latino families around issues of MCH and Early Childhood.

Methods

In 2013, PASOs conducted surveys and facilitated focus groups with Latino families and medical professionals regarding their experiences with Latino breastfeeding. Findings were used to inform the development of a comprehensive breastfeeding support initiative.

Results and Response

Results support data indicating high Latino breastfeeding initiation rates (83%); however, Latino duration and exclusivity are more problematic. 59% of Latina participants did not meet their own breastfeeding goals – 46% because of unresolved breastfeeding problems and 13% because of returning to work. This indicates a lack of supportive workplace policies and professional breastfeeding help. Medical professionals reported difficulty providing adequate breastfeeding education and support to Latino families, exacerbated by language and culture barriers.

PASOs’ initiative addresses this disparity through advocacy, capacity building, and individual support. Sixty-four medical professionals have participated in breastfeeding-focused cultural competence training, and 139 Latina mothers have received education and support from breastfeeding-trained Latina Community Health Workers resulting in 93 successful interventions to date. Latino families in South Carolina often receive insufficient support to solve breastfeeding challenges, but obstacles can be overcome through a multi-level response.