Montgomery, Ala. (WDNews) In honor of August being National Breastfeeding Month and August 1–7 being World Breastfeeding Week 2025, the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) is emphasizing the importance of breastfeeding as a basis for long-term health and well-being.
Breastmilk is the best nutrition for babies, according to medical professionals. It offers vital dietary security from birth, fosters close emotional ties, and aids with illness prevention.
For the first six months of life, ADPH recommends exclusive breastfeeding. After that, solid foods should be introduced gradually.
Alabama’s breastfeeding rates are increasing. Initiation of breastfeeding rose from 68.6% in 2019 to 75.9% in 2022, according to state data. During the same time period, the rate for Black mothers increased from 55.5% to 64.7%, while the rate for white mothers increased from 75.2% to 80.7%.
Breastfeeding families are greatly assisted by programs such as WIC and the State Perinatal Program, which provide breastfeeding supplies, peer counseling, education, and support groups. Breastfeeding WIC participants can stay in the program for up to a year and get extended benefits.
According to ADPH, the mother alone is not enough to provide a happy nursing experience; family, medical experts, and the larger community must also support the mother. Families can visit the ADPH website to learn more about available resources and services.
