Breastfeeding (also known as chestfeeding or bodyfeeding) is linked to a reduced risk for many illnesses in children and mothers or lactating persons. Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life is linked to health benefits for infants. Although breastfeeding initiation rates are high in the United States, most mothers or lactating persons don’t breastfeed exclusively for the first six months (Healthy People 2030).   

Considerations for Equitable Approaches: Infants in rural areas are less likely to ever be breastfed than infants living in urban areas. Nationally, fewer non-Hispanic Black infants are ever breastfed compared with Asian infants, non-Hispanic White infants, and Hispanic infants (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). Strategies like peer support, education, longer maternity leaves, and breastfeeding support in the hospital, workplace, and community may help more women breastfeed exclusively (Healthy People 2030).  

Inclusive Language Recommendations: Recommendations for more gender-inclusive language include using the term "lactating person" rather than "mother" (Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine). The terms "chestfeeding" or "bodyfeeding" can be used alongside "breastfeeding" (National Institutes of Health).