A new survey reveals that over half of women of childbearing age prefer online tools for urgent breastfeeding concerns, raising concerns among medical experts about the accuracy and safety of relying on artificial intelligence and social media for infant care guidance.
A new Orlando Health survey suggests that many women of childbearing age would turn to the internet before a clinician if they faced an urgent breastfeeding concern, underscoring how deeply digital tools are now woven into early parenting decisions. The health network said 51% of women aged 18 to 44 would first use artificial intelligence, social media or a search engine rather than contact a doctor, lactation specialist or family member.
That convenience is easy to understand for parents coping with a newborn at all hours of the day, but Erynne Bowers, a paediatrician with Orlando Health Physician Associates, warned that online answers cannot account for the specific needs of a mother and baby. She said a chatbot cannot check growth charts, assess latch or identify oral motor problems that may be affecting feeding.
Bowers also said a sizeable share of the mothers she sees for breastfeeding difficulties have already received bad advice online. The risk, she said, is that broad guidance can delay proper care and, in some cases, contribute to slower infant weight gain or reduced milk supply if a mother is told to feed less often than her baby actually needs.
The Mayo Clinic has made a similar point, saying AI can be useful for quick explanations but should not replace medical judgement. Research cited by Live Science has also found that medical chatbots can give dangerously wrong advice even when questions are framed in clinical language. Bowers said technology can still have a place as a starting point, but not as the final word: “The next step is to make an appointment with your lactation specialist or your paediatrician.”
That approach proved important for Emily Hunziker of Sanford, Florida, who told Orlando Health that she became stressed after her newborn, who weighed about 10 pounds at birth, started losing weight and internet searches did not help. Once she began working with Bowers, Hunziker received a tailored plan that combined pumping, formula supplementation and lactation support.
Her experience reflects a broader trend. A 2026 survey by Mamava found that internet searches and AI tools were the most common first stop for breastfeeding help among 2,481 US parents, slightly ahead of friends, family and lactation consultants. Other research has found that while digital breastfeeding support can help, results vary, which is why experts continue to recommend combining online information with professional care.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
