Wake County to Celebrate National Breastfeeding Awareness Month

twin babies — Source: downloaded from getty babies,twins / Getty

August is National Breastfeeding Awareness Month and Wake County Public Health is proud to join the nationwide effort to highlight the importance of breastfeeding for families. Throughout the month, the County will be hosting a series of events, educational opportunities and resources to support and empower parents and caregivers in their infant feeding journey.

“Breastfeeding provides many health benefits for both babies and parents, including essential nutrients, immune support and a special bonding experience,” said Wake County Commissioner Tara Waters. “At Wake County, we’re committed to creating supportive environments for families, whether they choose to breastfeed, pump or explore other feeding options.”

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding exclusively for the first six months of a baby’s life if possible. Research shows that breastfeeding can lower the risk of certain infections, asthma, obesity and sudden infant death syndrome in babies, while reducing the risk of high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and breast and ovarian cancers in nursing parents.

Despite these benefits, many families face barriers to starting and continuing breastfeeding, including lack of access to lactation support, returning to work and the stigma of breastfeeding in public or shared spaces. Wake County is working to remove these barriers and build a culture where breastfeeding is welcomed and supported.

Wake County Events and Activities
Wake County invites families, caregivers and community members to participate in upcoming events designed to promote breastfeeding awareness and education:

Breastfeeding 101: Training for community members and professionals

Wednesday, Aug. 6, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Wake County Public Health Center, 10 Sunnybrook Road, Raleigh

WIC Breastfeeding Fair

Friday, Aug. 15, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Wake County Public Health Center (room G35C), 10 Sunnybrook Road, Raleigh

Breastfeeding Education Sessions

Thursday, Aug. 21 (Spanish session), 6:30 p.m.

SE Raleigh YMCA, 1436 Rock Quarry Road, Raleigh

Thursday, Aug. 28 (English session), 6 p.m.

Wake County Public Health Center (room G35C), 10 Sunnybrook Road, Raleigh

Additionally, Wake County’s Women, Infants, and Children program offers breastfeeding support year-round to WIC participants through peer counselors, educational resources and one-on-one consultations. Wake County also has two international board-certified lactation consultants on staff to help peer counselors support parents with breastfeeding problems or concerns.

For more information about National Breastfeeding Month activities and general breastfeeding support resources, visit wake.gov/breastfeeding.