Breastfeeding: What You Need to Know

Breastfeeding is one of the most important ways to give your baby a healthy start. It’s not just about nutrition—it offers amazing benefits for both babies and mothers. Whether you’re preparing to breastfeed or simply curious, here’s what you need to know in simple terms.

Why Breastfeeding is So Important

Breastfeeding is often called the “gold standard” for infant nutrition because it provides everything your baby needs to grow and thrive. Plus, it helps protect both you and your baby from health problems.

Benefits for Babies:

• Lower risk of asthma and severe respiratory illnesses.

• Reduced chances of obesity and type 1 diabetes.

• Fewer ear infections and stomach issues.

• Lower risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

• Protection against necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in preterm babies.

Benefits for Moms:

• Reduces your risk of high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes.

• Lowers your chances of breast and ovarian cancer.

• Helps with postpartum recovery.

The Reality of Breastfeeding in the U.S.

While breastfeeding has many benefits, only 1 in 4 babies in the U.S. is exclusively breastfed for the recommended six months. For Black mothers, breastfeeding rates are even lower, highlighting the need for more support and education.

The Good News:

• Breastfeeding rates in the U.S. are steadily improving.

• More hospitals now follow recommended practices to support breastfeeding moms.

CDC Supports Breastfeeding Moms

The CDC works to make breastfeeding easier for moms by improving healthcare, workplace policies, and community resources. Here’s how:

1. In Healthcare Settings:

   • Encouraging hospitals to adopt the "Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding."

   • Training doctors and nurses to support and educate new moms.

2. In the Workplace:

   • Partnering with employers to create breastfeeding-friendly environments with:

     • Private places to pump and store milk.

     • Flexible work hours and maternity leave benefits.

3. In Communities:

   • Promoting peer counseling and support programs.

   • Ensuring early education settings accommodate breastfeeding moms.

4. Through Research:

   • Tracking breastfeeding rates and practices across the country.

   • Publishing reports to show progress and identify areas for improvement.

Family Support Makes a Difference

Breastfeeding isn’t just about moms and babies—it’s about family, too. Having a supportive partner, family, or friends can make all the difference in whether and how long moms breastfeed.

A Few Quick Stats

• About 84% of babies in the U.S. start out breastfeeding, but only 25% are exclusively breastfed at 6 months.

• Low breastfeeding rates add more than $3 billion a year to U.S. medical costs.

• Black breastfeeding rates are lower than the national average, with only 75% of Black infants ever breastfed.

Final Thoughts

Breastfeeding has incredible benefits, but it can also be challenging. If you choose to breastfeed, know that support is available—from your healthcare provider, community programs, or even your workplace. Every little bit of support helps create a healthier future for both you and your baby.

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and not medical advice. If you have questions or concerns about breastfeeding, talk to your doctor or a lactation consultant.