Breastfeeding

Human milk is important for normal infant growth and development and is recommended for the first year of life and beyond. Except for illegal drug use and a few medical conditions, all mothers are encouraged to breastfeed.

Information about breastfeeding can be confusing. Here are some common things you might hear and the facts. More…

How well does your hospital support breastfeeding?
Check out the Report on Breastfeeding at New Jersey Hospitals. You can read the full report or just review the rankings by clicking on “tables only.” Hospitals with higher exclusive breastfeeding rates are more likely to have staff to help you breastfeed.

National Breastfeeding Helpline in both English and Spanish: 1‑800‑994-9662

How-to and problem-solving resources:

• Your Guide to Breastfeeding
  
  
• Ten Things to Know Before Leaving the Hospital
  
  
• Speak Up: What you need to know about breastfeeding
  
  
• Breastfeeding Answers from La Leche League
  
  
• Find a Lactation Consultant
  
  
• Right to Breastfeed in Public law
  
  
• New Jersey Parent Link

New Jersey programs and organizations that assist women who want to breastfeed:

• New Jersey WIC Program 
  
  
• La Leche League of New Jersey

Government and professional organizations:

• CDC Vital Signs Report: Hospital Support of Breastfeeding
  
  
• The Surgeon General’s Call to Action to Support Breastfeeding
  
  
• American Academy of Family Physicians Policy Statement
  
  
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Breastfeeding Data and Statistics
  
  
• WIC Breastfeeding Promotion and Support
  
  
• For Healthcare Professionals