Introduction
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CDC is committed to increasing breastfeeding rates throughout the United States and to promoting and supporting optimal breastfeeding practices toward the ultimate goal of improving the public’s health.
In order to achieve these goals, CDC utilizes an evidence-based policy and environmental approach to breastfeeding protection, promotion, and support. CDC’s breastfeeding activities cover a wide range, from conducting and supporting research about breastfeeding to evaluating and sharing information about existing strategies to protect, promote, and support breastfeeding. CDC also works closely with partners and organizations working to improve breastfeeding across the country.
For Mothers
Breastfeeding: Ideal for Infants
Both babies and mothers gain many benefits from breastfeeding. Breast
milk is easy to digest and contains antibodies that can protect infants
from bacterial and viral infections. Research indicates that women who
breastfeed may have lower rates of certain breast and ovarian cancers.
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Need help breastfeeding?
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has a
Featured Items
Breastfeeding
Report Card – 2008
The Hospital's Role in Breastfeeding Support
Breastfeeding-Related Maternity Practices at Hospitals and Birth Centers –
United States, 2007
MMWR, June 13, 2008 / 57(23);621—625
Also available in
print-friendly format
(PDF-1.67Mb)
Other CDC Resources for Improving Maternity Care Practices
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CDC Guide to Breastfeeding Interventions:
Chapter on Maternity Care Practices
(PDF-156k) - Hospital Crib Card
Breastfeeding, Maternal & Infant Health Outcomes
HHS Blueprint for Action on Breastfeeding
(PDF-468k)
Please note: Some of these publications are available for download only as *.pdf files. These files require Adobe Acrobat Reader in order to be viewed. Please review the information on downloading and using Acrobat Reader software.
* Links to non-Federal organizations found at this site are provided solely as a service to our users. These links do not constitute an endorsement of these organizations or their programs by CDC or the Federal Government, and none should be inferred. CDC is not responsible for the content of the individual organization Web pages found at these links.
Page last updated: August 11, 2008
Content Source: Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity and Obesity, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion