Implementation of a Breast Milk Pumping Program for Women Who Give Birth While They Are Incarcerated

Abstract

W omen who give birth during incarceration are very limited in their opportunity, ability, and support to choose breast milk as the preferred food for their newborn. The program's purpose was to introduce breast milk expression to women who give birth while they are incarcerated. Providing a means to collect, store, and release breast milk not only provides the optimal food source to the newborn but also fosters accountability, parenting, and a focus on healthpromotion practices for lactating women. Proposed Change Women who give birth while incarcerated will initiate breastfeeding through breast milk expression, using electric breast pumps provided by the correctional facility.