Breastfeeding Barriers Among Black Mothers: Maternal Guilt, Shame, and Other Affective Stressors
Abstract
Black women initiate and continue breastfeeding at lower rates than any other racial and ethnic group. The current study qualitatively examines barriers to breastfeeding among Black mothers. Participants included 37 Black cisgender mothers stratified by age with varying breastfeeding experiences. Data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Results highlighted maternal guilt, shame, and/or other affective barriers (i.e., concerns about latch/supply, emotional/mental health, external pressures, and pain with breastfeeding). These barriers affected initiation and continuation of breastfeeding. Findings highlight the needs of Black mothers seeking to breastfeed. Considerations for providers and peers seeking to support Black mothers are discussed.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Breastfeeding Practices and Influences
Racial and Ethnic Identity Research
Maternal Mental Health During Pregnancy and Postpartum
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Women & Therapy
- Publisher
- Informa UK Limited
- Volume
- 49
- Issue
- 2
- Pages
- 195–222
- Publication date
- 26 February 2026
- Language
- EN