North Central Health District

August is BreastFeeding Awareness Month

Posted August 14, 2015 by NCHD Admin

Breastfeeding can offer a host of benefits for both nursing mothers and their children. According to the Journal for Pediatrics, breastfeeding is a normative standard for infant feeding and nutrition. Breastfeeding also offers infants benefits medically and in neurodevelopment.

In addition, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) describes breast milk alone is sufficient to support optimal growth and development for approximately the first 6 months after birth. For many professionals, they encourage mothers to continue breastfeeding past the 6 month mark to ensure a baby is getting the full benefits of breast milk.

Breastfeeding is promoted in hospitals by trained professionals. Upon release from a hospital stay, additional support can be provided to help mothers who are breastfeeding their children.  If you are planning on breastfeeding and would like more information or additional support, please contact your hospital, or you can locate a WIC Peer Counselor by contacting your local health department. Not sure where to find health department information? Check out the North Central Health District’s website for more information- North Central Health District