Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

Brookings Supports Breastfeeding: Using Public Deliberation As A Community-Engaged Approach To Dissemination Of Research, Jenn Anderson, Rebecca A. Kuehl, Sara A. Mehltretter Drury, Lois Tschetter, Mary Schwaegerl, Julia Yoder, Heidi Gullickson, Jammison Lamp, Charlotte Bachman, Marilyn Hildreth

Communication Studies Publications

Empirical evidence demonstrates myriad benefits of breastfeeding for mother and child, along with benefits to businesses that support breastfeeding. Federal and state legislation requires workplace support for pumping and provides protections for public breastfeeding. Yet, many are unaware of these laws, and thus, support systems remain underdeveloped. We used a community-based approach to spread awareness about the evidence-based benefits of breastfeeding and breastfeeding support. We worked to improve breastfeeding support at the local hospital, among local employers, and throughout the broader community. Our coalition representing the hospital, the chamber of commerce, the university, and local lactation consultants used a public …