Shasha Satchell, C-CHW, CLC of B'more for Healthy Babies and the Early Learning Programming@the CRC presented how community based certified lactation counselors significantly altered breastfeeding support during the pandemic at the CityMatCH conference.
During the presentation, "Community Lactation Consultants Significantly Alter Breastfeeding Support Throughout the Pandemic” Shasha Satchell, C-CHW, CLC highlighted the work of three BHB U/DH’s community-based certified lactation consultants (CLCs) who provide community outreach, breastfeeding education and group-based, and one-on-one chest/breastfeeding support at community-based locations. Prior to the CoVID19 pandemic, the lactation consultants provided important support to chest/breastfeeding people at home and in the hospitals. During the pandemic, they incorporated culturally-affirming breastfeeding videos and discussions into sessions, and provided supportive services and resources to help reduce stress, which often impedes breastfeeding. Several breastfeeding group participants became certified lactation counselors and offered peer to peer support. Lactation consultants strategically provided breastfeeding support safely on Zoom and Facetime and breastfeeding supplies were dropped off at individual homes. Social media was used to further spread breastfeeding messaging to community members and their networks. This ultimately kept moms engaged and supported, which led to an increase in moms initiating breastfeeding in the hospital.
Breastfeeding support group attendance increased from 18 participants in 2021 to 30 participants in 2022 due to increased flexibility of virtual support. During National Black Breastfeeding Week, moms created breastfeeding videos on Instagram reels to support other Baltimore City moms which expanded the reach of the groups messaging.
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