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August is National Breastfeeding Month, and Texas WIC is following the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action’s theme, “Step Up for Breastfeeding: Educate and Support,” to help ensure moms have the support they need to meet their breastfeeding goals.
“In August, as in every month, Texas WIC is dedicated to supporting the breastfeeding goals of the families we serve,” said Texas WIC Director Edgar Curtis. “Each of us play a critical role in ensuring mothers and babies are able to realize the short-term and generational health impacts of breastmilk.”
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, followed by the inclusion of complementary foods and continued breastfeeding for two years and beyond for as long as desired by mom and baby.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 84% of babies born in Texas in 2018 began breastfeeding (national average was 83.9%), but only 56% continued to be breastfed at six months of age (national average was 56.7%), and nearly 26% received only breastmilk as recommended by all major health organizations (national average 25.8%).
Throughout August, Texas WIC clinics will host activities focused on bringing awareness to disparities in breastfeeding rates and addressing the barriers faced by these mothers. Celebrations include:
- Aug. 1–7: World Breastfeeding Week
- Aug. 8–14: Indigenous Milk Medicine Week
- Aug. 15–21: Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Breastfeeding Week
- Aug. 25–31: Black Breastfeeding Week
More information and resources about breastfeeding can be found below:
- Texas WIC’s comprehensive breastfeeding website, BreastmilkCounts.com.
- WIC’s online classes about breastfeeding, infant care and other topics for parents.
- A database of lactation support groups, classes and personalized counseling available through community partnerships and WIC clinics across the state.
In partnership with the Texas DSHS Maternal and Child Health program, Texas WIC offers no-cost breastfeeding services at five Lactation Support Centers across the state and through the 24/7 Texas Lactation Support Hotline, 855-550-6667.
For more information, visit the Texas WIC We’re Here to Help webpage.