The CDC recommends six months (26 weeks) of exclusive breastfeeding for babies. 83.8% of mothers attempt breastfeeding, and 60% of mothers stop breastfeeding before they had planned to. While the duration of breastfeeding varies widely, one study found the average length was 17 weeks. This is far from the 26-week (6 months) benchmark of exclusive breastfeeding.
Some of the most common reasons women stop breastfeeding include issues with lactation and latching, concerns about infant nutrition and weight, medication compatibility concerns, limited parental leave, and cultural norms, bias, and lack of family support.
Luckily, the world of maternal health is experiencing a significant transformation. And thanks to innovative companies like SimpliFed, Nyssa, Work & Mother, and Lactamo addressing the most common breastfeeding challenges, more women may meet the six months of exclusive breastfeeding goal. These companies are at the forefront of developing solutions that address the diverse needs of breastfeeding mothers, demonstrating how technology and thoughtful design can significantly enhance the breastfeeding experience.