The true cost of breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is often hailed as the gold standard for infant nutrition, a choice that countless parents make with the hope of giving their child the best start in life. The emotional and health benefits of breastfeeding are invaluable, not to mention the environmental benefits.
Yet, the true cost of breastfeeding is often overlooked. It’s a sacrifice that extends far beyond the act itself, encompassing sleepless nights and the relentless pressure to provide. In the year 2024, after centuries of parents nurturing their children through breastfeeding, it’s astonishing that we still cling to the misconception that breastfeeding is free. Our modern society doesn’t seem to realize the toll breastfeeding takes on not just the mind and body, but the bank account too.
The immense cost of breastfeeding — one borne quietly by parents for far too long — needs to be acknowledged. This burden should no longer rest solely on the parents’ shoulders. Instead, we must collectively work toward a future where the resources and support needed to breastfeed are readily accessible, alleviating the strain on families and honoring the sacrifices they make.
The Lactation Network’s Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) understand the huge, beautiful sacrifice parents make and support them in the trenches from prenatal to postpartum. In this article, we’ll focus on the financial cost of breastfeeding and break down the most common expenses parents can expect to help prepare financially and make the best choices for their families.
How much does breastfeeding cost?
Given that breastfeeding is a natural part of parenthood, many people assume the cost of breastfeeding will be low. However, it includes myriad expenses, from nursing bras to breast pumps to special foods and more.
One study found that breastfeeding costs families as much as $11,000 a year! That’s an astronomical number and an amount many breastfeeding families can’t afford. Understanding the reality of what breastfeeding costs can help families plan ahead as much as possible and create a more budget-friendly experience.
Average breastfeeding time
Parents, time is money. And your time is valuable. On average, you can expect to spend between three and six hours a day breastfeeding. This translates to roughly 21-42 hours a week — essentially a part-time job in itself. This time commitment can be staggering, especially when considering the physical and emotional energy required. Though demanding, this significant time investment yields numerous benefits for both parent and child, making the sacrifice well worth it.
Health professionals recommend breastfeeding exclusively for the first six months (i.e., without formula, water, juice, non–breast milk, or food) to help your infant develop a strong immune system. After this time, if it works for you and your baby, it’s recommended to continue breastfeeding for two years or longer. However, many parents choose to wean when their child is around one. Keep in mind that any length of time your baby can be breastfed is beneficial.
Common breastfeeding expenses
Regardless of how long you plan to breastfeed, you’ll want to include both initial, one-time investments, as well as ongoing costs, in your budget. Here are some of the most common breastfeeding expenses you can expect:
- Breastfeeding supplies
Nursing bras and pads offer added support and safeguard against leakage. Additionally, nursing pillows help reduce discomfort during feedings by easing the physical strain on your arms and back. - Breastfeeding equipment
Parents often need various equipment to support and enhance their breastfeeding experience. Among these, breast pumps top the list and can vary significantly in price. Manual pumps offer a budget-friendly option, while more efficient electric models come with a higher price tag. - Storage
Storage bottles and bags are indispensable for storing expressed milk, ensuring you have a ready supply of milk when you can’t breastfeed directly. - Food
When breastfeeding, it’s important to invest in nutrient-dense foods to support your increased caloric and nutritional needs. This might include high-quality proteins like lean meats, eggs, and legumes, as well as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables rich in vitamins and minerals. Healthy fats, such as those found in avocados, nuts, and seeds, are essential for maintaining energy levels and supporting milk production. Staying hydrated is also crucial — you may want to stock up on herbal teas, water, and electrolyte-rich beverages to maintain proper hydration levels. - Lactation consultants
Lactation consultants play a crucial role in the breastfeeding journey of many parents. They can help you establish a successful breastfeeding relationship early on, minimizing the need for costly breastfeeding equipment or supplements that could arise from unresolved feeding issues down the road. The best part? Many visits with a lactation consultant are covered by insurance.
It’s your right to get the care you deserve. Your relationship with your consultant is an investment in your long-term care, much like your relationship with your OB-GYN or child’s pediatrician.
TLN’s International Board Certified Lactation Consultants bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, guiding you through common challenges that breastfeeding can present. For someone feeling overwhelmed by the cost of breastfeeding, our expert, highest-credentialed professionals can provide strategies to help manage costs effectively.
How to financially prepare and budget for breastfeeding expenses
By understanding the financial aspects of breastfeeding, you can plan and prepare more effectively, ensuring you’re not caught off guard by unforeseen expenses.
The first step is to draft a budget that encompasses the length of time you expect to breastfeed your child. Include line items for the most common breastfeeding expenses listed above.
Next, research cost-effective solutions without compromising quality. For example, many companies offer high-quality, affordable breastfeeding equipment. By comparing prices and reading reviews, you can find products that deliver value without breaking the bank. Once you have good estimates, assign a dollar amount to each item in your budget to guide your spending.
Lastly, set aside a contingency fund. Even with a budget in place, unexpected costs can arise. Being prepared for these scenarios will help reduce financial stress if they occur.
While breastfeeding isn’t free and our society needs to stop placing the burden of this cost on parents, know that you’re not alone. TLN is here to provide you with the resources and support you need for every aspect of this journey! If you have questions about the cost of breastfeeding or creating a budget for breastfeeding, book a consultation with one of our International Board Certified Lactation Consultants. Our highly skilled consultants will provide you with expert advice that will help you find what works best for you, your body, and your baby through every stage of your breastfeeding journey.
We’re here for you, every step of the way. We work with your insurance to provide in-home, in-office, or telehealth visits with an IBCLC.
