Nature designed human milk for human babies; it provides infants with the best source of nourishment for healthy growth and development. Yet some aspects of health care, industry and society in general have evolved in ways that are not conducive to breastfeeding support and success.
Breastfeeding is associated with decreased risk for infant morbidity and mortality, as well as maternal morbidity. The benefits do not end when breastfeeding does, but can extend into and after toddlerhood.
Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first six months of life. However, breastfeeding, along with introducing complementary foods, can continue up to age 2 or beyond.
The decision to breastfeed is an important one. New mothers and new parents should feel comfortable seeking help and finding sources of peer and professional support.
Increasing breastfeeding rates is a national priority, and improvement is needed to protect, promote and support breastfeeding. AFMC is working with the Arkansas Department of Human Services to promote best practices for increasing breastfeeding success, as part of our larger effort to improve maternal and child health statewide.