Despite the well-documented benefits of breastfeeding — such as preventing acute physical illnesses and promoting cognitive development — many teen moms still find it challenging to breastfeed. In fact, teen moms are less likely to breastfeed than any other demographic in the United States.
For young mothers, especially those from lower-income backgrounds, breastfeeding can be overwhelming. Contrary to the belief that breastfeeding is “free,” it demands a significant commitment of time, energy and consistency.
Personal challenges, a lack of support, and aggressive formula marketing make breastfeeding even tougher for teen moms, who already balance school, work and parenting — often making breastfeeding feel impossible without the right resources. It’s essential for schools where these young moms spend much of their time to step up and offer the support that teen moms deserve.
Breastfeeding is often referred to as the “gold standard” for infant nutrition, and rightly so. It has been shown to lower an infant’s risk of developing asthma, obesity, type 1 diabetes, ear infections, and sudden infant death syndrome.
Furthermore, breastfeeding benefits mothers by lowering their risk of high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and certain cancers. While many teen mothers learn about the benefits of breastfeeding during pregnancy from healthcare providers or from loved ones who have breastfed, they often find it challenging to breastfeed successfully while juggling school and caring for a newborn. Additionally, aggressive formula marketing frequently portrays formula as a simpler, more convenient choice, which can undermine their confidence in breastfeeding.
The difficulties of navigating adolescence while caring for a baby can leave teen moms feeling isolated, making it harder to continue breastfeeding without sufficient support. Without a strong support system, many miss out on the advantages that breastfeeding provides for both themselves and their babies.
As a nutritionist working with Washington’s Women, Infants and Children program, I have seen firsthand how difficult it can be for teen moms to breastfeed. One mom I worked with gave birth the summer before she started high school. She was determined to breastfeed her baby but felt overwhelmed once school had started. She eventually stopped breastfeeding because she felt she had to choose between her education and her child’s health. Unfortunately, her story is far from unique.
This is where schools can make a difference. Washington is already a leader in supporting teen parents through its New Heights program, which provides resources for expectant and parenting students. This program is available at 12 schools in the District of Columbia, and it offers childcare referrals, assistance with navigating public health programs like WIC, and guidance on balancing school and parenthood. However, to support our young mothers, we need to go further and ensure that school environments fully accommodate breastfeeding.
First, schools should offer private, comfortable spaces for pumping. Real lactation rooms — not just empty closets — are necessary. These spaces would benefit students and staff members who also may be breastfeeding. Providing these spaces allows young moms to continue their education without feeling they have to choose between breastfeeding and their studies.
Even staff members can make a difference, particularly by starting a breastfeeding support group or mentorship program. This would create a space where teen moms can share their experiences and challenges with peers or trusted adults who understand what they are going through. Access to lactation consultants and counselors who have experience in working with teen moms would also be valuable. Creating a judgment-free environment where breastfeeding is normalized can make all the difference.
In addition to these accommodations, breastfeeding awareness needs to be incorporated into sexual health education. Although breastfeeding is a vital part of reproductive health, it is often left out of the conversation. Teaching all students about breastfeeding can help normalize it and reduce the stigma. By including breastfeeding as part of a broader conversation about pregnancy and parenthood, schools can empower young mothers and help them feel more confident in their ability to breastfeed.
Teachers can play a vital role in supporting teen moms who breastfeed. They can provide flexibility with school assignments and create a supportive environment by reassuring students that their need to take breaks for breastfeeding or pumping will not disadvantage them. This might include granting access to missed class materials, allowing breastfeeding moms to catch up on content covered while they are away from the classroom.
Teachers can also check in with these students to ensure they feel supported academically and personally, helping to alleviate concerns about falling behind while managing their responsibilities as students and mothers.
Breastfeeding is a powerful tool for infant health, but it shouldn’t feel impossible for teen moms. By creating supportive school environments that foster breastfeeding and educating all students about its benefits, we can help young mothers balance their education with their desire to provide the best for their babies. Supporting breastfeeding in schools will empower young mothers to make the best choices for themselves and their families, without having to choose between their education and their child’s health.
