ADPH Promotes Breastfeeding During National Breastfeeding Month
The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) is encouraging families across the state to recognize the benefits of breastfeeding as it observes August as National Breastfeeding Month and August 1–7 as World Breastfeeding Week 2025.
Health experts widely agree that breastfeeding and human milk provide the optimal nutrition for infants. Breastfeeding not only protects against a range of diseases and conditions but also promotes mother-child bonding and ensures food security from birth. ADPH officials note that success in breastfeeding is often linked to strong support from family, friends, healthcare providers, and the broader community.
Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first six months of life, unless medical circumstances require otherwise. At six months, solid foods can be introduced alongside continued breastfeeding. Exclusive breastfeeding means infants receive only breastmilk—no other liquids or solids. In addition to health and nutritional advantages, breastfeeding provides emotional and economic benefits, supporting food security for the entire family.
In Alabama, breastfeeding initiation rates have been on the rise. From 2019 to 2022, the state’s overall initiation rate increased from 68.6% to 75.9%. The rate among Black mothers rose from 55.5% to 64.7%, while the rate among white mothers increased from 75.2% to 80.7% over the same period.
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) has a key goal of improving infant nutrition, and human milk is recognized as the most complete source. ADPH programs such as WIC and the State Perinatal Program provide services and resources to help breastfeeding families. WIC participants receive breastfeeding education during prenatal care and after delivery, along with support groups, peer counseling, and professional lactation assistance at local clinics.
Breastfeeding mothers enrolled in WIC are eligible for expanded food benefits and can participate for up to one year. Breastfeeding aids like breast pads and pumps may also be provided, based on need. The State Perinatal Program supports breastfeeding as part of its broader mission to reduce infant illness and death in Alabama.
Families can explore available resources through the ADPH website at www.alabamapublichealth.gov.
Breastfeeding support also has a foundation in federal law. Public Law 102-342, the Homeless Children Nutrition Improvement Act of 1992, mandated the creation of a national program to promote breastfeeding, encourage its acceptance, and facilitate the distribution of breastfeeding equipment.
