Presentation Information

Expanding Our Audience to Gain Greater Appreciation and Acceptance of Breastfeeding

• Speaker: Christy-Jo Hendricks , IBCLC, RLC, CLE, CCCE, CD(DONA)
• Presentation Type:
• Duration: 60 Mins
• Credits: 1 CERP, 1 Nursing CEU, 1 CME, 0.1 Midwifery CEU, 1 Dietetic CEU

Abstract:

As educators and health organizations, we mostly target prenatal women with the breastfeeding message and then are surprised at the push-back we receive from those who do not embrace breastfeeding. In order to tip the scale in breastfeeding acceptance, we must broaden our audience.

This presentation will focus on reaching a larger audience. We must project our message to the masses. It is crucial to share breastfeeding education to society, early and frequently. Breastfeeding education should begin in the school system and be geared for each age appropriately.

We must offer education in a way that each person and organization understands how it applies to them and their situation. For instance, employers will be more likely to embrace the employee that breastfeeds if they understand the far-reaching effects of breastfeeding. The lawmakers will be more likely to approve lactation laws if they comprehend the need for legislation. Partners will offer appropriate support if they receive the same education that is often reserved for the pregnant woman. This presentation will give suggestions of how to reach family, communities, professionals, and lawmakers with the breastfeeding message. When societies embrace breastfeeding, they will embrace breastfeeding women and see it as the norm.