The Influence of Sociocultural Perceptions in Breastfeeding Practices Among African American Women

Breastfeeding offers critical health benefits for infants and mothers, yet significant disparities persist among African American women in the United States, who exhibit the lowest initiation rates (74.5%) compared to other racial groups. This systematic review, adhering to PRISMA 2020 guidelines, examines sociocultural factors influencing breastfeeding practices within this population. Nine peer-reviewed studies (2019–2024) from PubMed, SCOPUS, and Google Scholar were analyzed, focusing on cultural norms, barriers, and facilitators. Key findings reveal that breastfeeding behaviors are shaped by social support networks (family, community), cultural perceptions (historical legacies of systemic racism, sexualization of breasts), and structural barriers (economic constraints, limited workplace accommodations). Healthcare provider engagement and access to resources, such as lactation support, emerged as pivotal yet inconsistent influences. While community normalization of breastfeeding and ethnic pride were motivators, misconceptions about dependency and inadequate postpartum support hindered sustained practices. The review underscores the necessity for culturally sensitive interventions addressing systemic inequities, enhancing healthcare collaboration with community organizations, and implementing policies supporting maternity leave and lactation accessibility. Multifaceted strategies integrating education, economic support, and dismantling cultural stigmas are essential to reducing disparities and promoting equitable breastfeeding outcomes. By centering African American women’s sociocultural contexts, public health initiatives can foster environments that empower maternal-infant health through sustained breastfeeding practices.