Montgomery, Ala. (WDNews) – The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) is recognizing August as National Breastfeeding Month and August 1–7 as World Breastfeeding Week 2025, highlighting breastfeeding as a foundation for lifelong health and wellness.
Health experts agree that breastmilk is the optimal source of nutrition for infants. It helps protect against illness, encourages strong emotional bonds, and provides essential food security from birth.
ADPH encourages exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, with the gradual introduction of solids after that.
Breastfeeding rates in Alabama are rising. According to state data, breastfeeding initiation increased from 68.6% in 2019 to 75.9% in 2022. The rate among Black mothers climbed from 55.5% to 64.7%, while white mothers saw an increase from 75.2% to 80.7% during the same period.
Programs like WIC and the State Perinatal Program play a key role in supporting breastfeeding families by offering education, support groups, peer counseling, and breastfeeding supplies. WIC participants who breastfeed receive extended benefits and can remain in the program for up to a year.
ADPH says that successful breastfeeding depends not just on the mother, but also on support from family, healthcare professionals, and the wider community. For more information on resources and services, families can visit the ADPH website.
