Cultural and systemic barriers impact breastfeeding rates for Latina mothers

Although most mothers in the U.S. start out breastfeeding, the number who continue to do so exclusively drops sharply over time, according to the latest data by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

And as the overall number declines over time, the challenge is even greater for Latina and Hispanic women, who often encounter cultural, language and healthcare access barriers that can impact their ability to successfully breastfeed for their child.

In 2022, there were 3,667,758 births in the U.S., and the recent breastfeeding data by the CDC for babies born that year show that:

• 85.7% of babies were breastfed at least once.

• 62.1% were still receiving some breast milk at six months.

• 40.8% continued breastfeeding at 12 months.

• Only 27.9% were exclusively breastfed for six months, which is far below the Healthy People 2030 national goal of 42.4%.

Additionally, among Latina mothers, 85.9% initiate breastfeeding, but just 26.6% maintain exclusivity for six months, and 59.2% continue breastfeeding alongside other foods. But beyond the statistics, restrictive immigration policies and fears of deportation prevent many Latina mothers, particularly those who are undocumented, from seeking postpartum care, according to the National Partnership for Women & Families.

Also, the lack of health insurance, language barriers and the absence of culturally tailored services further restrict access to breastfeeding support and ongoing care. Even if Latina mothers were to seek treatment, the lack of bilingual care providers in California prevents them from getting the care that they need.

A study found that 31% of Latino immigrants can’t access mental health services because of the language barrier, and according to the Department of Health and Human Services, Latinos have the highest uninsured rates of any ethnic group in the country, with 18.3% of the population uninsured compared to 5.4% of white people.

Lizeth Cuara, CEO of Misty Phases and designer of specialized postpartum care products, emphasizes that while starting breastfeeding is a major achievement, sustaining it requires a supportive ecosystem and practical tools that address physical discomfort, offer convenience and enhance emotional well-being.

Cuara highlighted three key allies for breastfeeding mothers:

1. Specialized nursing bras—Soft, breathable, elastic, and wire-free materials prevent irritation, clogged ducts and mastitis. They adapt to breast changes and reduce strain on the back and shoulders.

2. Warm compresses—Stimulate milk flow, trigger let-down reflex before feeding or pumping, relieve clogged ducts and ease tension from engorgement.

3. Cold compresses—Reduce swelling and pain from mastitis or post-feeding engorgement and soothe cracked or sensitive nipples with a numbing effect.

“Too many mothers stop breastfeeding early because pain and discomfort become unbearable,” says Cuara. “Thermal compresses and well-designed nursing bras are simple, accessible and highly effective in helping women meet the breastfeeding timelines recommended by health experts.”

Cuara’s dedication to supporting the Latina community extends beyond product innovation. Through her social media platforms, she has created a free, supportive postpartum community that offers valuable information, emotional connection and culturally sensitive guidance in  helping new mothers navigate both physical recovery and emotional well-being during their motherhood journey.