August is National Breastfeeding Awareness Month
August is recognized as National Breastfeeding Awareness Month. Every year in the month of August we promote the benefits of breastfeeding, support breastfeeding parents, babies, and families. Join the celebration as we protect, promote, and support breastfeeding at the 15th Annual Breastfeeding Awareness Walk & Celebration on Saturday, August 5, 2023.
2023 National Breastfeeding Month Weekly Observances
- Week 1 (August 1-7): World Breastfeeding Week
- Week 2 (August 8-14): Indigenous Milk Medicine Week
- Week 3 (August 15-21): Asian American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Breastfeeding Week
- Week 4 (August 25-31): Black Breastfeeding Week
Why Should I Breastfeed?
Breastfeeding has health benefits for both babies and mothers. Breast milk provides a baby with ideal nutrition and supports growth and development. Breastfeeding can also help protect baby and mom against certain illnesses and diseases. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months. After six months, baby can be fed soft solid food in addition to breastmilk until twelve months old or older. Learn more about breastfeeding, click here.
Dads Can Help Too
Father/Partner can support moms before baby arrives. Opportunities to help can be at the hospital/birthing center and at home by learning more about breastfeeding, sharing mom’s plans to breastfeed only with hospital staff, and helping care for baby. Click here to learn about Breastfeeding Basics for Dads.

Newborn Feeding Cues
As a new mom, you may be wondering how often and how much to feed your baby. Your baby will give you signs to let you know when they are hungry and full. It may take some time, but you'll learn exactly what these signs are. Your WIC breastfeeding staff can help you learn your baby's cues. Learn how to tell when your baby is hungry or full. Visit the WIC Breastfeeding Support site here.
Breastfeeding In Public: The Law
A mother may breastfeed her child in any location, public or private, where the mother and child are authorized to be present.
Breastfeeding And Work: The Law
Employers are required to provide breastfeeding employees:
- A reasonable amount of break time to express breastmilk for the child.
- A private place, other than a bathroom, that may be used to express breastmilk.
More Helpful Resources
Break Time for Nursing Mothers 
National WIC or the CA WIC
La Leche League of Fresno
Mother’s Milk
Your Guide to Breastfeeding
A Guide to Breastfeeding
Fresno County Breastfeeding Resource Directory 2023
Fresno County Breastfeeding Coalition
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