Virtual support can improve health outcomes for Black families

Virtual breastfeeding support can improve health outcomes for Black families 

Virtual breastfeeding support has been proven to help families meet their breastfeeding goals. In fact, 87% of SimpliFed patients are still breastfeeding after 3 months as compared to the national average of 47%. However, Black women are still much less likely to meet breastfeeding goals due to racial barriers outside their control.

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Layering in virtual options can help close the care gap and offer judgment-free support for one of new parenthood’s most isolating endeavors. 

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Virtual breastfeeding support offers care wherever, whoever you are 

Telehealth extends a clinical reach to populations in maternity care deserts, however, it can also level the playing field by cutting out barriers or racial bias. One CDC study found that maternity wards in primarily Black regions of the country are less likely to offer lactation support or encourage breastfeeding postpartum. Instead, Black babies are disproportionately offered formula. While formula may be beneficial, the choice should be left up to the mother’s preference. Virtual support like SimpliFed means patients have access to evidence-based care no matter their location. 

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Virtual options also mean:

• Evening and weekend hours: SimpliFed removes the barrier of taking time off of work or fitting an appointment in a busy schedule. Flexible hours mean patients can choose what works best for them.

• The comfort of home: By recreating the feeding experience at home, families are more likely to express their true feelings, frustrations, and questions without fear of racial bias. Many accounts discuss how Black women  struggle during pregnancy and postpartum and are worried they'll be more harshly judged.

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Breastfeeding support means better health outcomes

Continued breastfeeding has numerous benefits not only for infant nutrition but for maternal health as well. Breastfeeding has been shown to lower the rates of certain cancers and type 2 diabetes. Even more so, studies show when caregivers struggle with breastfeeding they may have an increased chance to experience postpartum depression.

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By offering virtual support throughout pregnancy and postpartum, all patients have a more positive outlook, understanding the infant benefits as well as breastfeeding’s impact on their mental health. Virtual anywhere, anytime support increases maternal health outcomes no matter the patient’s race.

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The SimpliFed difference 

Supporting all families during their feeding journey is our mission. By offering judgment-free virtual support we meet caregivers where they’re at regardless of race or ethnicity. 

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And with a focus on culturally competent care, we can begin to move the needle on health outcomes. 18% of SimpliFed lactation consultants identify as Black or African-American as compared to the national average of less than 10%. This level of inclusion means every unique patient’s experiences are listened to. We are also able to collect pertinent medical information and create better, more tailored care plans.

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For more information on how to work with SimpliFed contact us here.