National Breastfeeding Month

National Breastfeeding Month: Supporting Moms and Babies

August is National Breastfeeding Month, a celebration of breastfeeding’s health benefits for both babies and mothers. This month promotes education and advocacy, ensuring families have the resources they need to make informed feeding choices and overcome challenges.

Three Facts:

1. The World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding exclusively for the first 6 months, followed by breastfeeding alongside complementary foods for up to 2 years or longer.
2. Breastfeeding strengthens a baby’s immune system, reducing risks of diseases like ear infections, asthma, and obesity.
3. For mothers, breastfeeding lowers the risk of breast and ovarian cancer and promotes postpartum recovery by helping the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size faster.

How to Celebrate National Breastfeeding Month:

1. Provide support networks for new and expecting moms by promoting local or online lactation consultations.
2. Share educational resources about breastfeeding benefits, techniques, and workplace accommodations.
3. Advocate for breastfeeding-friendly policies in public spaces and workplaces.

Three Resources:

1. La Leche League International – Providing breastfeeding support and guidance to new moms.
2. Office on Women’s Health: Breastfeeding – Expert tips and strategies for successful breastfeeding.
3. World Health Organization: Breastfeeding – Global recommendations about breastfeeding best practices.