When did breastfeeding become popular in the US?

The Rise of Breastfeeding Popularity in the U.S.
Breastfeeding has a long and complex history in the United States, shaped by cultural, social, and medical influences. Its popularity has ebbed and flowed over the decades, reflecting broader societal changes.
Early Practices and the Shift to Formula
In the 19th century, breastfeeding was the norm, but this began to change with the rapid urbanization and industrialization of the U.S. during the late 1800s. As families moved to cities and women increasingly entered the workforce, many found it challenging to breastfeed. This led to a rise in the use of wet nurses and, eventually, the introduction of infant formula. The first canned milk business opened in 1856, marking a significant shift in infant feeding practices as many mothers struggled to breastfeed for extended periods .
Public Health Campaigns and the Return to Breastfeeding
The early 20th century saw a turning point as public health reformers began to link the high rates of infant mortality, particularly from diarrhea, to the use of cow’s milk as a substitute for breast milk. This prompted campaigns promoting breastfeeding as a healthier alternative. The message that “breast is best” began to gain traction, although it was not until the mid-20th century that breastfeeding started to regain its status as the preferred method of infant feeding.
The Lactation Movement and Modern Advocacy
The 1970s marked a significant resurgence in breastfeeding advocacy, spurred by the feminist movement and a growing awareness of the health benefits of breastfeeding for both mothers and infants. Organizations like La Leche League emerged, providing support and education to mothers. This period also saw the establishment of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative in the 1990s, which aimed to promote breastfeeding in hospitals.
Current Trends and Challenges
Today, breastfeeding is widely recognized for its numerous health benefits, including reduced risks of various diseases for both mothers and children. However, despite the increased awareness and support, many barriers still exist, such as workplace policies, societal pressures, and lack of access to lactation support.
In conclusion, while breastfeeding has experienced periods of decline and resurgence throughout American history, it has become increasingly popular in recent decades, driven by public health campaigns and a growing recognition of its benefits. The journey of breastfeeding in the U.S. reflects broader societal changes and continues to evolve as new challenges and supports emerge.

What culture breastfeeds the longest?

Guinea-Bissau. In Guinea-Bissau, the average length of breastfeeding is 22.6 months.

Why were queens not allowed to breastfeed?

As for why royals avoided breastfeeding, Licence noted that: “Royal women were often little more than symbolic figures, delivering child after child to secure a dynasty. This was particularly important in times of high infant and child mortality, when the production of second, third and fourth sons were crucial.

Was breastfeeding popular in the 70s?

Trends by birth cohorts of women show that 2/3 of the women born in the 1920s breastfed their 1st infant, but only 1/4 of the women born in the late 1940s and early 1950s did so. Over 70% of 1st born infants in the 1930s were breastfed, but less than 30% in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

When did breastfeeding become legal in the US?

U.S. legislation governing breastfeeding varies from state to state and a limited federal law only applies to federal government premises. A United States House of Representatives appropriations bill (HR 2490) contained an amendment specifically permitting breastfeeding and was signed into law on September 29, 1999.

How long does the average American woman breastfeed?

The average mom exclusively breastfeeds for the baby’s first 6 months and then gradually introduces other food while continuing to breastfeed for 2 years or longer. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months after birth.

Did the Kardashians breastfeed their babies?

Despite the pain, Kourtney noted that she was proud to have breastfed her babies throughout their early childhood whenever they needed it, wherever they needed it. “I was definitely comfortable to breastfeed in front of anyone,” she said.

Was breastfeeding popular in the 80s?

PIP: In 1985, 35% of US infants were breastfed until at least age 4 months whereas in 1971 the corresponding figure was 10%. Breastfeeding is less common among lower income than among higher income populations. In 1985, 10% of infants aged 6 months were fed fresh fluid cow’s milk, down from 70% in 1971.

At what age is breastfeeding no longer beneficial?

Breastmilk or infant formula should be your baby’s main source of nutrition for around the first year of life. Health professionals recommend exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months, with a gradual introduction of appropriate foods in the second 6 months and ongoing breastfeeding for 2 years or beyond.

Do royals breastfeed their babies?

But, not one to follow tradition too strictly, the Queen set her own standard and breastfed her four children, something which her daughter-in-law Princess Diana also decided to do as well, and later the Duchess of Cambridge.

Was breastfeeding popular in the 90s?

Breastfeeding also increased between 1984 and 1995 among both African-Americans (from 33.3 to 37%), and Hispanics (from 53.8 to 61.0%), with little change in breastfeeding initiation among Caucasians (from 65.0 to 64.3%). 6. Eckhardt, K.W. ∙ Hendershot, G.E.