Maternal & Infant: Become mom’s one-stop-shop

Q. How can the increase in breastfeeding rates positively affect my business? 

A. According to the CDC’s National Immunization Survey, the percentage of mothers who breastfeed their babies has increased steadily from 2011 to 2018. Not only are more mothers breastfeeding but for longer periods of time. The rate of mothers who breastfed their babies at 12 months has increased from 26.7% in 2011 to 35% in 2018.  

The increase in breastfeeding rates can be attributed to hospitals offering programs to new moms. In the U.S., the number of hospitals providing care practices that support breastfeeding at birth has increased from 3.8% in 2010 to 29.1% in 2020. Overall, mothers are becoming more educated on the health benefits of breastfeeding not only for the baby, but also for the mom.  

With the increase in breastfeeding, there has been an increase in breast pumping, as well. The worldwide breast pump industry is expected to reach $4 billion by 2026, rising at a market growth of 13.8%. Breast pumping provides convenience and flexibility and with more moms entering the workforce, breast pumps have become essential for breastfeeding moms. Breast pumping allows breastfeeding moms to stay on a schedule and it can help increase milk supply. 

As a DME, offering breast pumps in your product line, along with other maternity items, can help increase your profits and help you gain a long-term customer base. Providing breast pumps and breast pump supplies, such as resupply kits and nursing pads, plus accessories like backpacks and power chargers, is a great way to ensure moms keep coming back to your business. 

Being a one-stop-shop for mom helps build trust and loyalty. The greatest referral source for your business is a recommendation. Building out an extensive maternity offering gives DMEs an opportunity to form relationships and create new business through word of mouth.  

Brandon Fonville is director of Motif Medical. Reach him at bfonville@motifmedical.com or 844-272-8390.