Celebrating National Breastfeeding Month — How Pharmacists Can Support Breastfeeding Mothers
Posted by Total Pharmacy Supply on Aug 10th 2023
Breastfeeding is a critical component of early childhood nutrition, with numerous benefits for both the infant and mother. August is National Breastfeeding Month in the United States, making it an important time to focus on the importance of breastfeeding for infants. Although there are many resources available to help mothers who choose to breastfeed, pharmacists can provide an additional layer of support by offering advice and resources to mothers who may need extra help.
Pharmacists should start by becoming familiar with the American Academy of Pediatrics' (AAP) breastfeeding guidelines, which outline the "breastfeeding-friendly" therapies that can be used safely during breastfeeding. These include certain medications, vitamins, minerals, herbs, and homeopathic products. It is important for pharmacists to be aware of any potential risks that may be associated with the use of these products.
In addition, pharmacists can provide education and support on topics such as pumping, storage of breastmilk, breastfeeding-related nutrition, postpartum depression, and other topics related to breastfeeding. Pharmacists should also be familiar with local resources available for mothers who are breastfeeding, such as support groups, lactation consultants, and organizations that provide additional assistance.
When providing care to mothers who are breastfeeding, pharmacists should also be sure to take into account cultural and religious beliefs about breastfeeding. It is important for pharmacists to respect each mother's individual choices when it comes to feeding her baby.
Finally, pharmacists should recognize the importance of promoting breastfeeding in their local communities. Pharmacists can partner with health care providers and public health organizations to host educational events about breastfeeding, and they can provide informational pamphlets about breastfeeding in their pharmacies. By taking these steps, pharmacists can make a difference in the lives of mothers who are committed to providing healthy nutrition for their babies.
Pharmacists are in a unique position to provide support and guidance to mothers who are breastfeeding, and National Breastfeeding Month is the perfect time to promote this important service. By providing accurate information, resources, and education about breastfeeding, pharmacists can help make motherhood easier for new moms everywhere.
By working together with healthcare providers and public health organizations, pharmacists can help to make breastfeeding more accessible and ensure that mothers have the resources they need to make informed decisions about their babies' nutrition. Celebrate National Breastfeeding Month by taking the time to recognize how important breastfeeding is for infants’ health and wellbeing!
We hope that this National Breastfeeding Month, you will join us in supporting mothers who are breastfeeding and helping to make motherhood a little easier. Happy National Breastfeeding Month!