Our Mission
Increasing the number of mothers who are successful at breastfeeding should be a first step in improving the health of our children and mothers and, so, our community and nation.
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According to the national Centers for Disease Control (CDC), among infants born in 2019, most (83.2%) started out receiving some breast milk, and 78.6% were receiving some breast milk at 1 month. At 6 months, 55.8% of infants received some breast milk and 24.9% received breast milk exclusively. Despite the recommendation that babies breastfeed exclusively for the first 6 months, less than 45% were exclusively breastfeeding at 3 months. The rate of exclusively breastfed babies drops to 24% by 6 months. In Alabama, only 37.7% of moms are still breastfeeding at 6 months. Only 21% are exclusively breastfeeding.
Despite the compelling evidence and ongoing initiatives, there is very limited support for breastfeeding moms in Southeastern Alabama. Our mission is to address this gap, to teach safe and effective breastfeeding techniques, and provide support during this vulnerable time.
Why Breastfeed?
The Top 5 Benefits of Breastfeeding
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Breastfeeding decreases baby's risk of illnesses: ear infections, colds, gut infection, SIDS, diabetes, etc.
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Breastfeeding decreases mom's risk of postpartum depression.
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Breastfeeding decreases the risk of childhood and adulthood obesity.
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Breastfeeding decreases mom's risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, diabetes, hypertension, obesity and heart attacks.
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Breastfeeding saves time and money.