August is National Breastfeeding Month
National Breastfeeding Month highlights benefits for babies and moms
August marks the celebration of Breastfeeding Month, a time to recognize and promote the significant benefits of breastfeeding for both mothers and babies.
Nourishing Health and Bonding
Breastfeeding is a natural and beautiful way to nourish your little ones, providing them with essential nutrients, antibodies, and fostering a unique bond that lasts a lifetime.
This Breastfeeding Month, we encourage all mothers and caregivers to celebrate the joys and benefits of breastfeeding. Your decision to breastfeed positively impacts your baby’s health and strengthens the loving bond between you.
Benefits of breastfeeding for both mothers and babies:
Here are some important messages to remember during this special month:
Optimal Nutrition for Your Baby:
Breast milk is uniquely designed to meet your baby’s nutritional needs. It contains a perfect balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and vitamins, promoting healthy growth and development. The antibodies found in breast milk also provide your baby with crucial protection against infections and illnesses.
Bonding and Emotional Connection:
Breastfeeding is more than just feeding; it’s a unique bonding experience between you and your baby. The skin-to-skin contact and closeness during breastfeeding create a strong emotional connection, promoting feelings of comfort, security, and love.
Supporting Breastfeeding in Public Spaces:
Breastfeeding is a natural act, and mothers have the right to breastfeed their babies whenever and wherever they need to. Let’s work together to create a supportive and accepting environment for breastfeeding mothers in public spaces.
Benefits for Moms Too:
Breastfeeding isn’t just beneficial for babies. It also provides several advantages for mothers. It helps the uterus contract after childbirth, reducing postpartum bleeding. Breastfeeding has been associated with a lower risk of certain cancers, such as breast and ovarian cancer, and may contribute to better mental well-being and faster postpartum weight loss.
Convenient and Economical:
Breast milk is always ready, at the right temperature, and requires no preparation or additional costs. It is a convenient and economical way to provide nourishment to your baby.
Seek Support and Guidance:
While breastfeeding is a natural process, it can sometimes come with challenges. Don’t hesitate to seek support from healthcare providers, lactation consultants, or breastfeeding support groups. They can provide guidance and assistance to overcome difficulties and ensure a successful breastfeeding journey.
The WIC Program provides breastfeeding support to moms with lactation consultants, classes, peer groups and phone hotlines.