WIC and other resources are available to support your breastfeeding goals.

Good nutrition during the first 2 years of life is vital for your child’s healthy growth and development. Human breast milk is the best source of nutrition for most babies.

Health organizations recommend breastfeeding (also called chestfeeding) for up to 2 years of age or longer^*. Feeding your baby only breast milk is recommended for the first six months of life (along with any necessary medications or vitamin and mineral supplements)^**. Then continuing to breastfeed while introducing complementary food beginning at 6 months old.

Breastfeeding has many benefits for both the mother (or birthing parent) and baby. It helps your baby feel safe, warm, secure, and loved. It can also reduce the risk for certain health conditions for both infants and mothers.

Finding Support for Breastfeeding

Even though it is natural, there are some basic things to learn to help you succeed. And for some, breastfeeding can be challenging for a number of reasons. Everyone’s experience is different, but it is important to remember:

• Your friends and family can help you in many ways. For example, they can help change diapers, run errands, and prepare meals.
• Take care of yourself. Making sure you are eating, drinking, and resting enough can help you take care of your baby. We know it can be easier said than done, here are some tips.

The Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program can also help support you and your breastfeeding journey so that you can meet your goals. WIC staff includes trained breastfeeding peer counselors and lactation experts who will encourage you and help address basic breastfeeding concerns. Support is offered both in person and by phone. Learn more about enrolling in WIC.

More Information

• See our Infant Nutrition page.
• Learn more from the CDC and the Virginia Department of Health.
• It's Only Natural has breastfeeding information for African-American women.
• Call the National Women's Health and Breastfeeding Helpline: 1-800-994-9662 (Monday – Friday, 9 am – 6 pm ET)
• Call or text the Maternal Mental Health Hotline when you need support: 1-833-TLC-MAMA (24/7)
• Visit our web page and follow us on social media for updates on this and other Maternal and Child Health topics.

^*The American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization recommend continuing breastfeeding through at least two years of age.
^**Recommendations are from the U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans.