Community Support of Breastfeeding During Emergencies

Breastfeeding support extends beyond the healthcare system, It lies in the whole community. Some considerations to breastfeeding support during emergencies include:

• Adopt and Implement Best Practice Recommendations for Infant and Young Child Feeding in Emergencies:  

  • CDC and HHS have toolkits with comprehensive recommendations such as training shelter personnel; ensuring designated safe, private, and comfortable spaces for infant feeding; and providing necessary supplies and services. 

• Provide Access to Skilled Lactation Support and Peer Breastfeeding Support:  

  • Partner with International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants and other certified lactation personnel who can be mobilized quickly. Plan for in-person and virtual options.

• Support the Breastfeeding Mother's Nutrition:

  • Breastfeeding mothers need nutritious meals and approximately 500 extra calories per day

  • Increase the water stores for breastfeeding mothers from 1 gallon per person per day to 1½ gallons per pregnant, postpartum, or lactating mother per day.

  • Continue vitamin supplements per the mother's request from her providers recommendation. 

• Maintain a Deployable Supply of Breastfeeding Items:

  • Estimate and plan for the logistical and equitable distribution of breastfeeding and relactation supplies.

  • Recognize these as essential items alongside other medical and personal assistance services.

  • Items may include pumps, breastmilk storage bags, and containers, refrigeration, sanitizing equipment, breast pads, nipple cream or balm, nipple shields, baby-wearing wraps, pillows, blankets, towels, and hygiene supplies.

• Maintain Health and Address Feeding Urgency:

  •  Acknowledge that missing feedings can cause significant health issues, such as maternal engorgement and potential infant hypoglycemia, and ensure rapid breastfeeding support to prevent these outcomes.

• Eliminate Barriers to Breastfeeding Support:

  • Facilitate quick and unimpeded access to breastfeeding supplies and support.

  • Remove bureaucratic obstacles, such as needing written medical authorization for over-the-counter breastfeeding supplies

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Infant and Young Child Feeding in Emergencies Toolkit. https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/emergencies-infant-feeding/downloads/iycf-e-toolkit-h.pdf

Prasad, M., Russell, J.H. (2023). Challenges with Pediatric Mass Care Feeding. Domestic Preparedness, 19(5), 27-31. https://www.domesticpreparedness.com/journals/may-2023

US Department of Health and Human Services. (2021). HHS Maternal-Child Health Emergency Planning Toolkit. https://www.phe.gov/Preparedness/planning/abc/mch-planning-toolkit/Pages/default.aspx