August declared Breastfeeding Awareness Month in Ohio

Gov. Mike DeWine and Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel have signed a proclamation declaring August as Ohio Breastfeeding Awareness Month, coinciding with National Breastfeeding Month.

Breastfeeding is recognized as an effective way to improve health outcomes for both mothers and infants, lowering the risk of respiratory illness, ear infections, allergies and certain cancers. Officials note that early experiences with breastfeeding often determine whether and how long mothers continue, and support at every level can help reduce barriers.

This year, Ohio is adopting the World Breastfeeding Week theme, “Prioritize Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems,” which emphasizes meeting families where they are and improving support from all areas.

The American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, with continued breastfeeding and complementary foods for two years or longer. Communities and programs can help families reach these goals by providing education and support during the perinatal period.

The Ohio Women, Infants and Children Program offers prenatal education and lactation support. Businesses are encouraged to display breastfeeding-friendly signs, educate staff on Ohio law that allows breastfeeding in public under Section 3781.55 of the Ohio Revised Code, and use the Ohio Workplace PLUS Toolkit to provide private pumping spaces. Child care centers can pursue breastfeeding-friendly designations, while hospitals may join the Ohio First Steps for Healthy Babies initiative.

For more information, visit odh.ohio.gov/know-our-programs/Breastfeeding or call the Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital/Carroll County WIC Program at 330-627-8875 or the Ohio Statewide Breastfeeding Hotline at 888-588-3423.