Access to breastfeeding support programs is positively associated with the duration of exclusive breastfeeding. During the COVID-19 pandemic, access has decreased to many lactation support programs.

The objective was to determine, how if at all, the COVID-19 pandemic has affected breastfeeding rates.

Peer-reviewed and grey-literature resources were identified using the search terms lactation, breastfeeding and COVID-19, and breastfeeding support-programs. Eight relevant sources were found in the journals Pediatrics, Maternal & Child Nutrition, Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine, and Journal of Human Lactation. The review included grey-literature publications related to breastfeeding incidence and duration, reason why individuals stop breastfeeding, and specifically during the COVID-19 pandemic (defined as 04/01/20 - 04/01/21). An annotated bibliography of key resources and synthesis of findings were developed.

There is limited research on whether this is impacting the decision to continue breastfeeding throughout the recommended period. Findings were that breastfeeding mothers reported a lack of breastfeeding programs during the COVID-19 pandemic and were unable to access these programs. A majority of mothers who ceased exclusive breastfeeding before six months reported not being ready to stop. Reasons given for breastfeeding cessation were misinformation about safety of lactation during COVID-19 and a lack of access to professional support. Mothers of low socioeconomic status reported higher rates of breastfeeding cessation due to the lack of support.

A lack of breastfeeding support programs during the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in increased rates of self-reported premature cessation of breastfeeding.

As breastfeeding rates are declining during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in those of lower incomes, these finding are important for public health services planning immediate lactation and breastfeeding services to support infant health.