Sustaining Breastfeeding Together, 2017

 For 25 years, the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA) and many more have globally celebrated World Breastfeeding Week, August 1 through August 7. In 1992, UNICEF and WABA recognized the need to create a unique unifying social event that could build solidarity and action around breastfeeding, thus World Breastfeeding Week was created. Twenty-five years later we see more promotion, support and protection of breastfeeding. However, the number of infants who are breastfed still falls very short of the recommendation. The World Health Organization and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life and continued breastfeeding for at least one year or for as long as mother and baby desire.
Babies who are breastfed have less infections, illness and diseases. They have fewer colds, ear infections, constipation and even less risk of childhood cancers. Mothers who breastfeed recover quicker from childbirth, have a reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancer and type 2 diabetes. Breastfeeding also saves Americans millions of dollars that would otherwise be spent on formula, bottles, nipples and medical care.
Each year, WABA creates a theme for World Breastfeeding Week to reflect the current times. This year, the 25th anniversary theme is Sustaining Breastfeeding Together. For it is only through the support and commitment of many, that breastfeeding can be sustained for the wellbeing of babies and mothers. The babies that are born today are the future of our community and the nutrition they receive through breastmilk will serve as the cornerstone of their optimal growth and development. More mothers initiate breastfeeding and breastfeed for a longer duration when they are encouraged and supported.
California Law (CA Civil Code 43.3) gives mothers the right to breastfeed in any location, public or private except the residence of another.
Santa Clarita Valley breastfeeding families can receive support and assistance at:
NORTHEAST VALLEY HEALTH CORPORATION: lactation@nevhc.org or 818-270-9777
HENRY MAYO NEWHALL MEMORIAL HOSPITAL: Lactation Center 661-200-1515, Breastfeeding Support Group every Thursday 9:30-11:00am
BREASTFEEDINGUSA: nina.withers@breastfeedingusa.org
BREAST TIME of LIFE: 818-571-0494
For WIC participants:
NEVHC WIC PROGRAM: Breastfeeding Helpline 818-837-6349
This program offers nutrition education, breastfeeding support, checks for healthy foods, and referrals to qualifying women, infants and children under five years of age. To see if you qualify for the WIC Program call 818-361-7541. Rebecca Sheng is an International Board-certified Lactation Consultant for the WIC Nutrition Program.