The American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, with continued breastfeeding along with complementary foods for up to 2 years of age or longer.
Breastfeeding Benefits Both Mom and Baby
For more information, see CDC’s Breastfeeding Recommendations and Benefits English | Spanish
Benefits to Baby
Lower risk of:
- Ear infections
- Severe lower respiratory disease
- Infections with diarrhea/vomiting
- Sudden unexplained infant death
and more…
Benefits to Mother
Lower risk of:
- Type 2 diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Breast cancer
- Ovarian cancer
and more…
Mothers Need Support Throughout Their Breastfeeding Journey
- New dads and partners involvement play an important role and impact the success of breastfeeding and the care of your new infant.
- Doula services are now covered under Medi-Cal; ask your provider!
- Doulas are birth workers that provide physical, emotional, and nonmedical support, health education for women before, during and after childbirth.
- Lactation consultants and educators may be available; ask your delivery hospital, prenatal provider or pediatrician.
- WIC can also support eligible breastfeeding parents/caregivers with education and breast pumps. Call your issuing WIC agency for more information.
Working? There Is Support for You to Pump Milk for Your Baby at Work
- You have the right to a reasonable break time and private space, other than a bathroom, to pump milk for your baby at work. See Lactation Accommodation Tip Sheet.
Breastfeeding Resources:
For Spanish: Lactancia materna
